Total integration of our spiritual life and faith is much more important than ritual

1 Col. 1:1-8, Lk. 4:38-44. The main crisis of faith in our time is the disconnect between our belief and practical life styles. That is why Paul is more eager to commend the Christians in Colossae for their courageous witness of faith, which expressed itself in their total integration of their faith and love. Hence, he prays that their new-found faith may grow and bear more fruit - come to maturity - through a spiritual wisdom and understanding which leads to a fuller knowledge of God's purpose which should manifest itself in good works, in joyful endurance of trials, in living lives that are not darkened by idolatry and sinfulness. Paul also appreciates the fact that people are coming to believe no matter who the first preacher of the faith is. They, like other Christians, are bearing the fruit of faith, no matter who planted the seed. Thus, Paul reminds the Colossians of the hope held in store for them in Heaven, a hope that “has borne fruit and has continued to grow in your mind as it has everywhere.”

It is often easier to profess our faith by our mouth and by words alone and yet we do nothing in order to prove that our faith is more than just mere words or formality. We often spend much time worrying about our worldly concerns and matters and afraid to venture forth out from our comfort zone, as a result, many among us do nothing to grow spiritually or to bear rich fruits of our faith, even though the Lord has clearly given us so many gifts and blessings. Today's Gospel recounts the active ministry of Jesus in the area around Galilee and then He turns His attention to other Jewish towns. At first He heals Simon’s mother-in-law who later was at the service of the Lord. When Jesus was busy caring for sick people in Capernaum, He continued until sunset, laying His hands on them and curing them. After this intense activity He took some time off for prayer. Soon after daybreak He made His way to a lonely place. There was still much to be done, but He needed time to pray quietly. His audience could not see the value of this, so when Jesus went aside to pray, the crowds went after Him and wanted to stop Him from leaving them.

May the Lord continue to empower us to share the good news and touch people’s lives so that they know the love which God has for them! Amen!! It is well with you, happy new month!!!