22nd Week in Ordinary Time : Tuesday 5th September 2023

Paul encouraged the Church at Thessalonica to remember that the Lord would return quite unexpectedly – like a thief in the night. Paul referred to the people as the “beloved”, and we must also remember that we are God’s beloved children. They were children of light, just as we are if we know and love Jesus Christ. We must remain awake and aware of God’s mission for us – to share God’s love with all and to remain in that love by spending time in solitude with God, listening to what God is telling us.

The people in Capernaum were amazed at Jesus’ teachings because He spoke with authority. But that is not all that amazed them – Jesus was not afraid of demons, and demons obeyed him. When He ordered the demon to leave the man, the demon recognised Jesus. Although the people were amazed by Jesus’ teachings, they did not recognise Him as “the Holy One of God.” Do we recognise Jesus in His presence in the Eucharist or everyday occurrences? Jesus is always present.

Lord, help me to be aware of Your presence in all situations.