Who will separate us from the love of Christ?

Rom. 8:31-39, Lk. 13:31-35. In today's first reading, Paul sees life as a battleground for good and evil forces. It is a battle we can wage with confidence because Christ is on our side: “Who will separate us from the love of Christ?” With his assurance that nothing outside ourselves can separate us from the love of God, Paul does not dispense us from the struggles of life. We will still encounter dilemmas and problems but they are no reason for us be despair. With the help of Jesus we can meet each challenge as it comes. Paul is eloquent about how Christ helps us in every circumstance. Whatever trials we may face, we are “more than conquerors because of him who loved us.”

The love of Christ is the secret ingredient that tilts the balance in our favour. Paul evokes the passion of Jesus and the love which prompted His total acceptance of the cross on our behalf. So he asks rhetorically: “Will not the God who gave his own Son for us, grant us everything we need?” Today's Gospel recognises the certainty of the destiny of Jesus. He knows that “No prophet can be allowed to die anywhere except in Jerusalem.” His decision to challenge the authority sprang from His passion to do good, heal and liberate. Nothing could stand in His way of doing good for people and serving them in their needs. Jesus was aware of the mark of Jerusalem who never tolerated prophets and never spear their blood. He would not let Herod to determine His course of action for God alone can direct His life and works.

May the Lord come to our aid with His mighty arm to lead us to freedom and fill our hearts with the light of truth! Amen!! Good morning and have a great day!!!