Weekly Reflection

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Thus says the LORD: Let not the wise boast of his wisdom, nor the strong boast of his strength, nor the rich man boast of his riches; But rather, let those who boast, boast of this, that in their prudence they know me, know that I, the LORD, act with fidelity, justice, and integrity on earth. How I take delight in these—oracle of the LORD.” Jeremiah 9:22-23
 
Today’s first reading corrects the erroneous attitude of equating our thoughts with God’s – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways.” St. Paul in prison, anticipating his death, yearns for union with God as he envisions the reward of being alive or dead. Jesus, in the parable of the landowner, demonstrates God’s generosity, which surpasses human standards. 
 
Do you perceive God like an umpire who judges according to human understanding of fairness? If God’s judgments were merciless, none of us would be alive. Instead, God is generous, lenient, and compassionate to all who experience him. 

This week let us contemplate God’s generosity and extend the same to others.

Have a blessed week.
Fr. Patrick Olaleye
frpatrick@stmartinforney.org

24th Sunday in Ordinary Time

”If a man finds it very hard to forgive injuries, let him look at a Crucifix, and think that Christ shed all His Blood for him, and not only forgave His enemies, but even prayed His Heavenly Father to forgive them also. Let him remember that when he says the Our Father, every day, instead of asking pardon for his sins, he is calling down vengeance on himself.” - Saint Philip Neri

Today's first reading encourages us not to become undeserving of God's compassion by failing to forgive those who offend us. St. Paul reminds us, dead or alive, we live for Christ. In the Gospel, Jesus taught on the need to forgive always, as we receive forgiveness. 

Brethren, it can be challenging to forgive. But we know how sweet it is to receive forgiveness. This week, as we reflect on forgiveness, let us cooperate with God's grace to pardon those who hurt us. Jesus' response to Peter should be our guide, "I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times."

Do I deserve God's infinite mercy for failing to forgive those who offended me?

Have a blessed week.
Fr. Patrick Olaleye

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

"The Clergy and Laity alike must be open to the Lord's correction because we are continually growing in the Lord. You and I are not perfect. It's okay to correct each other, but let's not criticize one another." – Bank Silva.

In the first reading, prophet Ezekiel reminds us to be responsible for our brothers and sisters. St. Paul teaches that love for others must guide our actions. Jesus, in the gospel reading, offers the ways to settle our scores. 

Are you ready to adopt the recommendation of Jesus to the path of reconciliation with your estranged brethren? In charity, no situation is above forgiveness – we owe it to one another. We are our brother's and sister's keepers.

Have a blessed week.
Fr. Patrick Olaleye

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

“The cross is not negotiable, sweetheart, it’s a requirement. And yet, we hate to suffer. I know I do. However, suffering will come, and when it does come, God will give us the grace to handle it.” Mother Angelica.

In the first reading, Jeremiah complained about God duping him. He lamented because conveying God’s message has brought him nothing but insults. Yet, he cannot be mute. St. Paul’s letter to the Romans urges us not to live like the people of the world. But strive to do God’s will. In the gospel, Jesus clearly states the conditions of discipleship. Jesus was emphatic because he did not want his disciples to feel duped like Jeremiah. Thus, Jesus tells his disciples to be prepared to face hardship and suffering.

Do you joyfully carry your daily cross or complain like Jeremiah and Peter? If we think less like the world, the cross we endure might be meaningful – like a woman who forgets the pains of labor at the cry of her baby or a student who receives honor for studying hard.

Are you ready to commit to the cost of discipleship?

Have a blessed week.
Fr. Patrick Olaleye