There should be prayers offered for everyone

There should be prayers offered for everyone

By REV. FR. SAMUEL FREDERICK

1 Tim. 2:1-8, Lk. 7:1-10. The mission statement in today's first reading is clear and engaging: that God desires that all be save and come to the knowledge of the truth. Jesus gave Himself as ransom for all and Paul has a mission to all nations. Since God desires all to be saved, it seems that the whole of humanity are being saved without explicitly accepting the Gospel. Therefore it is not explicit faith that determines the ultimate fate of an individual but the quality of a life lived. The difference between faith and unbelief is in the strength of relying on Jesus and the uncertainty of living without His inspiration. Hence, Paul prays that all may be saved and “come to know the truth.” The truth of Jesus sets us free and inspires us, brings us peace and deepens our respect for life. As Paul says: "...there should be prayers offered for everyone – petitions, intercessions and thanksgiving – and especially for kings and others in authority." With great power comes great responsibility and we should pray for our leaders to take that responsibility seriously.

In today's Gospel, a Gentile centurion shows a more active faith than the Jews. In our own context, the spark of faith in a person of no religion, can take a Christian by surprise. The Roman centurion shows great concern, simplicity and graciousness towards the distress of his servant. He asked Jesus for help, risking refusal as a member of the hated Roman Army. He also showed a courteous spirit: “Sir, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter my house.” Open and honest, he mentioned his desire for his servant and is not afraid to publicly admit his trust in the healing power of Jesus. This man courteously sent a delegation of Jewish elders to intercede for him and his slave. He seems a consummate diplomat and his faith is highly praised, just as the faith and eloquence of St John Chrysostom earned him the name 'Golden mouth.' John Chrysostom was the Archbishop of Constantinople, then the Eastern capital of the Roman Empire, under the reign of the Emperor Arcadius. He was an ascetic earlier in his life, dedicated to the study of Theology and other aspects of the Christian faith before becoming a Deacon in Antioch. Many pagans and unbelievers came to believe in God because of his sermons and piety and many fellow Christians turned away from their sins and erroneous ways through his works.

May the Lord make those in authority to be good leaders, wield their power responsibly, so that they may be able to keep the well-being of their people in mind! Amen!! Good morning, have successful and fulfilled week!!!

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