Something greater than Jonah is here

Rom. 1:1-7, Lk. 11:29-32. In today's first reading, Paul addresses his letter to the faithful in Rome, describing his mission to the Gentiles and their call to be beneficiaries of the revelation and salvation of God. Each of us is governed two life-principles: being born of the flesh in the natural order and born of the spirit in the supernatural order. The first follows the natural law of generation: conception, birth, life in the flesh. Paul compares this to Judaism with its multiple laws to regulate each moment of human existence. Our rebirth through the Spirit surpasses our natural potential and leads to eternal life. The flesh is doomed to die, but the spirit is promised the hope of eternal life. The spirit co-exists with our corruptible nature and liberates us from its slavery to death. This dual life-principle comes from Jesus who welded His divine nature with our human nature. Like the first Christians in Rome, we have the benefit of the Scriptures, the sacred liturgy and a long tradition of saints. In our lives, the Holy Spirit brings the fruits of love, joy and peace.

Already here on earth we anticipate eternal life, for Jesus, far greater than Solomon or Jonah, dwells among us. In today's Gospel, Jesus challenges us to appreciate His presence among us. He recalls the story of Jonah and how the heathen Ninevites turned from their sinful ways and sought the mercy of God when Jonah preached to them. Jesus informs His listeners that the message they heard is more powerful and important than that of Jonah. Jesus also recalls how the Queen of the South traveled to Jerusalem to hear the wisdom of Solomon. Yet, the wisdom of Solomon is inferior to the words of Jesus. If the people of Nineveh responded with faith to Jonah and Queen of the South showed such trust in Solomon, how much more should Jesus’ contemporaries should respond to Him. The same Jesus who preached and healed in the villages of Galilee is present to us as risen Lord. Like His contemporaries, we can engage in a futile search for miracles without recognising His presence around us if we live in the flesh. The greatest sign of the Lord’s presence is in the Eucharistic gatherings. Gifted and graced by His presence, we are to live under His inspiration and example.

May the Lord give us the spirit of prayer so that we may never wander away from the path that leads to life! Amen!! Good morning, have a productive week!!!