READINGS FOR THE SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, YEAR C, SUNDAY 16TH FEBRUARY, 2025.
First Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-8
Psalm: 1
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20
Gospel: Luke 6: 17, 20-26
REFLECTION BY FR. CORNELIUS NWAOGWUGWU, CM.
THE KINGDOM OF GOD: A JOYFUL CHOICE
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Welcome to the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C. Today’s reflection focuses on the Kingdom of God: a joyful choice. A choice is described as “the range of different things from which a being can choose.” We face choices in our lives every day. Our expression of choice can be conscious and unconscious. Our choices in life may lead to reversible or irreversible outcomes, a blessing or a curse. There is a need for us to have a balance in our choices in life and to experience the closeness of Jesus, the source of all happiness.
This understanding of choice ties in well with today’s readings. Our liturgical readings today reveal the profound significance of trusting in God and choosing to live in God’s Kingdom.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus came down with the Twelve and Jesus chose to stop at a piece of level ground. Jesus also chose to fix his eyes on his disciples and taught them the mysteries of life. Jesus said: “How happy are you who are poor: yours is the kingdom of God.” St. Luke in today’s Gospel speaks of the Beatitudes. They promise blessings to those who embrace God’s values, despite worldly hardships. (Luke 6:17, 20-26).
In the First Reading, Jeremiah emphasizes the blessings that come from placing our faith in God. It depicts the flourishing life of those who trust in God. He says, “A curse on the man who puts his trust in man, who relies on things of flesh, whose heart turns from the Lord. A blessing on the man who puts his trust in the Lord, with the Lord for his hope.” We turn away from God when we put our hope and trust in things human and worldly. (Jeremiah 17:5-8).
In the same manner, the Psalmist contrasts the fruitful lives of the righteous with the fleeting existence of the wicked. (Psalm 1). St. Paul in the Second Reading, underscores the resurrection’s pivotal role in our faith. This assures us of a future hope in Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20).
These passages highlight the joyful choice of aligning with the Kingdom of God. It is a path marked by choice, trust, hope and divine blessing. The choice leads to eternal joy and peace. It contrasts with the emptiness of earthly pursuits. This choice transforms our lives. It reflects God’s love and justice.
Here are the big questions we should ponder on: How can we willingly first choose the Kingdom of God? Are we willing to allow Jesus into our lives? Do we truly trust God in His promises? How honest are we in keeping God’s Law? Do we recognize our dependence on God? Do we believe in Divine providence? How committed are we in humble, selfless, compassionate and generous sharing of our blessings with those experiencing challenges? Do we love and respect those that are poor? Do we stand for our Faith with heroic convictions and joy? How can millions of people who are starving, persecuted, jobless and homeless be happy? How can the poor be happy? How can we be poor and joyful? What does it mean to be happy? These questions require courage and an honest response from us.
Yes, certainly, we can be materially poor but spiritually rich and joyful in the Lord. We can also be materially rich but spiritually poor. It is about our choice. It requires balancing the realities of life. Our choices in life can make us sad or happy, poor or rich. The choices we make on a daily basis can make life difficult or joyful.
We pray for the gift of courage and discernment in our choices in life. We also pray for the grace to respond to the outburst of the unconditional love of God by seeking first the Kingdom of God. This will enable us to experience the joy that comes from the Lord, now and forever. Amen.
Fr. Cornelius Nwaogwugwu, CM