Sunday, August 25, 2024

Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jos 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b

Eph 5:21-32 or 5:2a, 25-32

Jn 6:60-69

GROW AS A DISCIPLE | PRAY, STUDY, ENGAGE, SERVE

GROW: “If it does not please you to serve the Lord, decide today whom you will serve.” Not much nuance or wiggle room in that phrase, is there? This is what Joshua said to the people in today’s first reading, when he gathered together all the tribes of Israel. Although these were God’s chosen people, they still had to make a conscious choice – a decision to live with God and be obedient to him, or not. Jesus’ followers and disciples faced the same test of resolve in today’s Gospel, as he had just revealed himself as the bread of life. Some left and some stayed. We, too, must decide, today and every day. Too busy or distracted to attend to God? Then what? Do we have a plan? In this busy world, there is always something calling out for our attention. But there is nothing more important for our happiness in this life and the next than to stay focused on a life of service to Christ and his Church. For, as Peter says, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” The Twelve have made the choice as to whom they will serve: they will serve the Lord.

GO EVANGELIZE | PRAYER, INVITATION, WITNESS, ACCOMPANIMENT

GO: We serve the Lord in building his kingdom, and we all have a role to play in that. First, we use the gifts and talents with which we have been blessed. Next, we ignore the world’s charge to put ourselves first and, instead, turn to family, friends and even strangers, and take care of them. Loving people the way Jesus loves is not easy. Paul compares the love of Christ for his Church and the love between husband and wife: It is sacrificial, all-encompassing love that submits the whole of oneself to its flourishing. It is the love of Christ in the Eucharist which he offers to give us the clarity and strength to do the work we are called to do. We are called to serve the Lord, and may we do so with praise and thanksgiving.

SERVE: “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” What a beautiful verse. How can you, as a family or individually, serve the Lord this week? Think of one or two specific aspects of your life and ask the Lord to show you how they may be used for his glory and in service to him.