29th Week in Ordinary Time (C) : Monday 17th October 2022

The passage in the letter to the Ephesians reminds the readers of their present Christian way of life contrasted with their former life. They were under the influence of worldly existence, and the satanic ruler of their air also described the spirit as active among the children of disobedience (cfr. Eph.2:2). However, because God is rich in mercy, the believers of Christ do not have to suffer divine punishment. Because of the merciful action of Christ, God’s free gift is given to all who believe in Him.

The saving action of Christ is a gift from God which comes through faith and is not something that can be attained through one’s own efforts. Good works do not in and of themselves save. Therefore, no one can boast of attaining salvation through self-effort. At the same time, we have been made by God in Christ Jesus to do good works. Therefore, God has planned everything for us because He loves us.

When Jesus is interrupted by a man who wants help acquiring his share of the family inheritance, Jesus uses the opportunity to tell a parable about the trap of possessions. The rich man is so wealthy that he does not have enough room to store his goods. But he is a fool because he has lost sense of what is really important amid his good fortune. He even imagines that he can control his life. In reality, he forgets that God is in control of everything.

Lord, You are in control of my life.