17th Week in Ordinary Time : Monday 31st July 2023

Moses was furious and impatient with the Israelites, destroying the Law God had given him for the people. We can also identify with the Israelites’ exhaustion, frustration and impatience. How often do we find ourselves working on a project or a cause of social justice, expecting to succeed if we persist in doing the right things to further the cause or event? When we have setbacks or encounter obstacles, the temptation to lose faith in ourselves, others, and even in God is strong. Let us not lose hope in God because God is always good to us.

In the Gospel, Jesus reminds us of how we receive the gift of salvation, the Kingdom of Heaven. Sometimes, we go through life doing God’s will, but all too often, we fall into sin through our weaknesses and selfishness. We are now only insignificant members of the Church, yet, when we live a good life, following and imitating Jesus, we becomes like that most minuscule of seeds that become a large bush giving shade or the yeast that leavens the bread.

God of grace, may we realize that the Kingdom of Heaven is here, now, and after we die. Help us to participate in Your Kingdom by loving our neighbours.