The Kingdom is where God's People are

The Kingdom is where God's People are

By REV. FR. SAMUEL FREDERICK

Rom. 12:5-16, Lk. 14:15-24. One can only imagine the seeming utter chaos at the royal banquet Jesus describes in today's Gospel. The poor, crippled, blind and lame are not the original invitees. Hence, they are not prepared for the honour. They are brought in just as they are; in their rags, begging bowls and walking staffs. The blind may bump into the lame and the crippled may stumble on the leper. To add to it all, the master wants his banquet hall to be packed to its capacity; hence, more people are still being brought in. However, one thing is certain: Over and above all such disorder, there will be much joy and delight. If we expect the Kingdom of God to be like the first-class cabin in an airplane, we may be mistaken. The Kingdom is where God’s people are; and God invites everyone just as they are.

Today, we are challenged to begin to take everyone as they are; rubbing our shoulders here on earth with the poor, crippled, lame and blind will make us to prepare well for the life to come. Paul gives us some very practical suggestions for being one body with others in today's first reading. To share with others our gifts of prosperity and personality because we are “one body in Christ and members one body.” Each one, like an organic part of a human body, must serve the entire body. The good of the entire Church depends on the cooperation of each member within the body, but the Church is weakened, if there is any form of dysfunction or its members fail to function. Let us not set our personal goals in opposition to our duty to form a community with others. Remembering how helpless and impoverished we would be, if left to be a loner. Let us take our part in welcoming others into the hospitable family of God.

May the Lord who made all things and keep all things in being, give us the insight to see His hand at work in our lives and in the humble service of others! Amen!! Good morning and have a grace filled day!!!

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