28th Sunday in Ordinary Time (A) : 11th October 2020

St Ignatius in his ‘Principle & Foundation’ (#23) of the Spiritual Exercises enlightens us about ‘indifference’ as “a means to God-directed choices”.

This ‘indifference’ or ‘interior freedom’ is what we notice in St Paul’s words today. He says, “I know how to be poor and I know how to be rich too … I am ready for anything … full stomach or empty stomach, poverty or plenty” (Phil. 4:12).

How could Paul write these words? He could because of his “initiation” — what he had to go through (e.g. 1 Cor 4:9-13; 2 Cor 11:23-28) which made him “ready for anything anywhere” (v 12). Therefore, through his experience, he could confidently say, “there is nothing I cannot master with the help of the One Who gives me strength” (v 13).

St Paul, ever mindful that he could not have been where he was, if not for the support of fellow believers, expressed his deep appreciation and said, “it was good of you to share with me in my hardships” (v 14).

Let us imitate St Paul in his “indifference”/interior freedom in seeking to “praise, reverence and serve God our Lord”; and in remembering to be thankful for those alongside us, who support us, lovingly and sacrificially.

Lord, teach me to be generous. Teach me to serve You as You deserve. To give and not to count the cost. To fight and not to heed the wounds. To toil and not to seek for rest. To labour and look for no reward, except that of knowing that I do Your will.  Amen.