31st Week in Ordinary Time (C) : Monday 31st October 2022

If we have ever been in a group of people quarrelling, fighting, and backbiting, we know what a miserable experience it is. Only one thing would complete Paul’s joy: he wanted all the believers in his community to be of one mind and one love. That does not mean that there will never be differing opinions or disagreements. But if all the community members genuinely love and respect one another, those little ‘bumps in the road’ will not amount to much. Paul knew that the essential core of Christian living is renouncing selfishness and focusing on the needs and the happiness of others.

Jesus told His followers not to invite only friends, family, and the rich and powerful to their meals and banquets. These folks would give something in return. Instead, invite those no one ever includes – the lonely, the rejected, and the poor.

In the Old Testament time, those who were blind and crippled were thought to be cursed by God and impure. Just imagine the joy that they would have felt at being included in the celebrations!

We are surrounded by lonely people who do not have family, friends, or resources. We can make Paul’s joy complete, as well as the Lord’s, by reaching out with love to brighten the life of someone.

Lord, help me to brighten the lives of others.