This text is being fulfilled today even while you are listening

1 Cor. 2:1-5, Lk 4:16-30. In today's first reading, Paul speaks of the hopeful outlook that kept him going in his apostolic work. In all his activities, he felt under the power of the cross and the impulse of the Holy Spirit. His faith in Christ crucified helped him to bear every difficulty, even if sometimes he felt weak. After doing his best, he confidently left the rest to “the power of God. Sometimes the place where Paul seem to have the hardest time sharing his faith journey is where he got most of his persecution. In the same way, Jesus was rejected in his own town, Nazareth. When he spoke, Jesus’ listeners were touched by the ‘gracious words’ that came from His mouth. At the same time, they started to react violently, belittled and rejected Him. Jesus continuous to be rejected because to accept His message requires a change of heart and habits. It costs to follow Jesus and so many conveniently reject Him. Yet we are in need of these gracious words that heal the broken hearted, release the captives and let the oppressed free. There are people who remain constantly open to His message, love and mercy. God keeps sending His Son to us everyday through various ways. We need to find the trace of Him and agree to make Him part of our daily living. This can be the experience of anyone who sincerely encounter His Word: “This text is being fulfilled today even while you are listening.” This hopeful announcement remains true. The Spirit of the Lord continues to invite us to be glad in the presence of God and to make the project that motivated Jesus our own, to bring help where it is needed and help to free the oppressed; to do our part for justice and peace in our world. May the Lord set us free from the burden of sin and His words become gracious words for us! Amen!! Remain safe and have a productive week!!!