Daily Catholic Lectio
Thu, 7 March 2024
Thursday of the Third Week of Lent
Jeremiah 7:23-28. Luke 11:14-23
The strong one
Jesus drives out a demon. People who see this are wonder-filled, while the Pharisees say that Jesus drives out demons in the name of Beelzebub, the prince of demons. By saying so, they not only deny the divine origin of Jesus but also consider Jesus to be demon-possessed.
Jesus uses two metaphors to drive home his point: ‘house divided within,’ ‘a strong one who protects.’ An undivided house stands firm, and a strong one must be overcome by someone else who is stronger.
The Pharisees do not accept the authority of Jesus. Thus, they stand against him.
In the first reading, through Prophet Jeremiah, God points out the hard-heartedness of the people.
The readings of the day invite us to acknowledge the authority of Jesus. Acknowledging the authority of Jesus has threefold significance: (a) We too have authority over evil spirits; (b) I need to work on what keeps me intact and undivided; and (c) I must analyse the power of the strong one and overcome him.
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‘The strength of the synodal church rests not in the differences but in the unity of charisms.’ (Jubilee A. D. 2025, bite 48)
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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