22 September 2023 - Only By Grace Reflections

First Reading: First Timothy 6: 2c-12
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 49: 6-7, 8-10, 17-18, 19-20
Alleluia: Matthew 11: 25
Gospel: Luke 8: 1-3

Today’s Gospel reading presents Jesus on a mission to advance his cause, the good news of salvation, journeying from one town to the other. It also indicates that apart from the Apostles, He was also accompanied by several women whom He had cured of evil spirits or infirmities. These women provided for Jesus and His disciples in a concrete way from their personal resources and are a vital part of Jesus’ ministry.

The presence of women among Jesus' disciples was something uncommon as it was countercultural. And considering their background, one was a woman whom Jesus healed and freed from seven demons, Mary Magdalene, who stood by the cross of Jesus and witnessed His resurrection. Another was identified with Herod's circle, Joanna, her husband being the king’s financial controller. Another name mentioned was Susana, among many others. These are people who would have caused negative comments for Jesus when people saw them with Him. But He was a man who could ignore, challenge or accept the customs of the culture in His determination to further His cause. But what brings them into harmonious company is the love of Jesus, who likened the church to a great tree in which all sorts of birds build their nests.

Anyone who professes to follow Jesus is a disciple. Today, we are the men and women who have chosen to follow our Lord. As such, we are called to provide for the people who are in need. Our acts of kindness will make a huge difference, be it by making a donation to a worthy cause, supporting advocacies, participating in a food pantry, or simply lending a listening ear to someone who is troubled