Let us go to the other side

1 Cor. 3:1-9, Lk. 4:38-44. In today's first reading, Paul reprimands the Corinthians for not standing as shining example to others as they fall into disunity. He calls them “infants,” not adults, not yet ready for solid food. Like children they quarrelled over petty matters that contrasted with true devotion for Jesus. They were split apart into cliques, each following a different leaders. Their jealousies led to ridiculous bickering. Paul reminds them that every Church leader is a co-worker of God and that the Church is no private property, but “God’s garden.”

By the power of God everything had been possible and all the successes that were achieved by Paul, Apollos and other evangelisers and missionaries were because of the grace of God and His guidance. Therefore, all of us as Christians must be vigilant not to be tempted by the devil trying to sow divisions in us by making us focus on our differences. In today's Gospel, Jesus requests that He go to another place to avoid planting the seed of division in the disciples after healing the mother-in-law of Peter. He affirms that there are still many others who are in need of Him. By this act, He shows us that all the work that He has done, was ultimately for the greater glory of God, to serve the will of His Father and not to dwell in adulation and human praise. For it was indeed very easy for us to be tempted with pride and hubris, with ego and greed, in human praise and adoration, in fame and influence. That was why, the Lord Jesus chose to move on from place to place, that we would learn more about humility and refocus ourselves on the purpose of serving God rather than pursing our selfish desires.

May the Lord help us to be His most wonderful instruments in bringing His light and truth into our world! Amen!! Be safe and have a glorious day!!!