23rd Week in Ordinary Time : Tuesday 6th September 2022

The passage in the first reading describes Paul’s unhappiness that some Christians in Corinth betray their own members by bringing their disputes to pagan courts. It is shameful that they cannot find Someone in their community who is wise enough to help them settle the disputes. Paul reminds these people that Christians have to be willing to allow themselves to be offended rather than retaliate. God’s grace through Baptism enables Christians to act towards each other in the same way God works towards them. If Christians merely repeat paying evil for evil as the pagans do, will they inherit the Kingdom of God?

The Gospel passage today mentions the decision by Jesus to choose a core group from among His disciples. It was the decision made by Jesus after spending all night in prayer. He calls all the disciples together and selects the Twelve. The Twelve are now called the “Apostles”, from the Greek word “apostello”, which means “to send out”. They will gain a new position and standing among the other disciples from this time on. With this new status, they are raised to a greater sense of accountability and responsibility to Christ and the community of believers.

By virtue of the sacrament of Baptism, we, too, have gained a new status as children of God and as disciples of Christ. This brings a sense of accountability and responsibility to God and our neighbour. We are expected to live in a way that makes a difference in our society and the world.

Lord, help me to make a difference in my BEC, neighbourhood and society.