St Theresa of Ávila

Rom. 1:16-25, Lk. 11:37-41. We are exposed daily to injustice and over ambitious act. It is for this vulnerability, that we must be attentive to hidden intentions that our society promotes in its lifestyle choices, for selfishness can build greater world of inequality. Today's Gospel shows how Jesus condemned the origin of evil that is inherent in human hearts and actions. When Jesus and His disciples did not wash their hands before eating, the Pharisees asked: "Why not observe the usual Jewish rituals?" In answer, Jesus accuses the Pharisees as a group of being preoccupied with external rules while ignoring some essential values, such as giving alms to the poor. In our faith, we constantly need to keep returning to the basics. If we bring justice and charity into our hearts, everybody will get a possibility of a better world.

For Paul in today's first reading, faith implies fidelity and trust which helps the manifestation of God’s power in our world. True to his Jewish tradition, “justice” is a basic value for Paul. Thus, Jesus insists that the inside of the cup is more important than what is outside, that is, generosity is more essential than the washing of hands. St Theresa of Ávila whose memorial we celebrate is remembered today for her great faith and dedication to God in her generosity. Theresa of Ávila, also known as St Theresa of Jesus was a Spanish religious sister and member of the Carmelite Order, who together with St John of the Cross were instrumental in the reform of the Carmelite Order, eventually founding the Discalced Carmelites.

May the Lord come to the aid of the lonely, unloved and those without friends and may our love for each other be generous and sincere! Amen!! Good morning, peace be with you!!!