23rd Week in Ordinary Time (B) : Tuesday 10th September 2024

Paul reprimanded those in the Corinthian community who readily betrayed their own brothers and sisters by bringing their disputes to pagan courts. Paul chastised them – how can this be when those who believe in Christ will themselves judge the world? Unlike pagan courts that make judgements based on human-made laws, Christians are to judge by the law of love. Therefore, it is an insult to the Church if Christian conflicts are brought to the pagan courts, instead of settling it in and by the community. Paul reminds them that by their baptismal identity, of being children of God, that they are to act in the same gracious way towards each other as God is gracious to them.

The Gospel passage describes the manner by which Jesus calls His disciples and chooses twelve from among them to become His closest companions. The names of the Twelve are mentioned, emphasizing their new and distinct identity in the mission of Jesus. They become the direct continuity of Jesus and His mission, which then constitute the first stage of the Church’s leadership. Therefore, the Twelve represent the new Israel.  The blessings which God has pronounced over Abraham will now be transmitted through the Twelve.

By baptism, we too received a new identity and are called to a way of life that is different from the world. Nothing should overshadow God’s call for us “to be light of the world”.

Lord, thank You for rekindling the light in us to lead others safely home to You.