Readings:
Ephesians 2:12-22
Luke 12:35-38
Reflection:
The reading from Ephesians and the gospel passage from Luke fill me with amazement at how radical the call to discipleship is, and at the same time, I am filled with a deep sadness and regret that so often we do not live our lives in the way that Christianity demands.
Paul’s reminder to the Ephesians of where they came from, living selfish lives in competition with each other outlines for them and us, that wonderful call to to be part of this movement, this building, this way of life that creates a sense of belonging, unity and peace. We are not only called to this way of life but we have the Spirit to guide our way to the Father. It is a privilege and a responsibility to be part of this movement, this building, this way of life that brings us to holiness.
The ‘master’ in Luke’s gospel is the model of this life we are called to – a life of service, of care and gratitude. The challenge, of course, is to be ready. Ready to be the best I can be; ready to serve others rather than myself; ready to bring about peace and unity rather than meet my own needs.
I’ll pray for you, and hopefully you will pray for me too, so that we may bring about a change in our world, through our commitment to the gospel way of life.
Margaret Bentley is a Salesian Sister and is currently the Academic Manager at the English Language Studies for Pastoral Ministry (ELSPM) begun by the Passionists in 2014 to enable their students to learn English before continuing to the Novitiate or theological studies.