Daily Catholic Lectio
Wed, 30 October ‘24
Wednesday of the XXX Week of the Year
Ephesians 6:1-9. Luke 13:22-30
Redemption earned and gratuitous!
‘Are there only a few who are redeemed or saved? Jesus answers the question posed to Him. Many are redeemed, but its way is the hardest.
In today’s gospel reading, we see three understandings of redemption:
(a) Redemption, on the one hand, is God’s gift, but on the other hand, we must endeavour for it. The way is narrow.
(b) Redemption does not take place on the basis of acquaintance or on the basis of race on which one depends, but on the basis of individual spirituality.
(c) Redemption is common to all. ‘All those from the east and the west’ will participate in the feast of redemption.
What are the lessons we receive?
(a) Pain is the way of life. The ‘narrow gate’ is the embodiment of suffering or pain. Our world today proposes painless ways. But pain is necessary for our growth. We take many attempts to forget and hide the pain. But let us know that acceptance of pain is the way of life.
(b) Redemption is not possible by itself! Neither the religious organization on which we depend nor the life of hope that we have brings us redemption. It requires preparation and persistent effort.
(c) An inclusive mindset. The synod for a synodal church invites us to an inclusive journey. The all-inclusive mindset leads us to co-responsibility and collaboration.
In today’s first reading, the apostle Paul exhorts children, slaves, and leaders. Paul encourages them them to bring their lives and activities into harmony with God’s will.
‘Pilgrims of Hope’ travel with an inclusive mindset. (Jubilee 2025 AD, bite 238).
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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