Reflection: Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C (26 January 2025)
1st Reading : Nehemiah 8:2-6, 8-10
Psalm : Ps. 18:8-10, 15
2nd Reading : 1 Corinthians 12:12-30
Gospel : Luke 1:1-4; 4:14-21
Theme : The Law of the Lord
Today’s reading, the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time with the theme “The Law of the Lord”, the first reading taken from the Book of Nehemiah and Gospel of Luke, describe the public reading of Sacred Scripture which challenges the hearers to make a fresh beginning with a new outlook.
In the Gospel reading, Jesus stood in Synagogue and read the Scripture passage in his hometown. He reads from the Isaiah scroll and preach to the people by identifying himself as the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy of the Messiah. His mission mirrors that given to Moses; to bring gladness to the poor, free captives, restore sight to the blind, liberate the opposed and proclaim the good news. This text is popularly known as the manifesto of Jesus who gave belief, hope, healing and justice. Whereas in the first reading, the high priest Ezra, opened the book of the Law to remind people not to grieve and feel down as the Lord will give them strength – teaching them of God’s Law and encouraging them to celebrate with Joy in the presence of God.
In the second reading, the first letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians, St. Paul uses the metaphor of the human body to illustrate the importance of unity and diversity within the church. Just as the body is made of many parts that each serve a unique function.
He emphasized that all spiritual gifts were given by the Holy Spirit for the common good and no one should feel superior or inferior because of their specific role of gift. This passage encourages mutual respect, interdependence and the recognition by all members which are vital to the health and growth of the church.
The passage also reminds us of the importance of embracing diversity within our communities. Every individual has unique abilities and perspectives that contributes to the collective well- being. It challenges us to appreciate and value the contributions of others that we all have a role to play.
So, what is our prime role or manifesto in life? What is our purpose and calling?
Like Jesus, we are called to bring hope, healing and justice to the poor, lost and oppressed. Remember the beatitudes in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus’s sermon emphasizes of his moral teaching with one of them “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”.
Let us acknowledge the God’s law and the gifts to each individual by bringing joy, hope and positive changes to others even if it’s just simple kindness because there are many people suffering in silence, oppressed and lost.
Amen.
Cath : Apollonius Sitiol