Daily Catholic Lectio. Sat, 9 November ’24. We are the Church! We have a church!

Daily Catholic Lectio

Sat, 9 November 2024

XXXI Week in Ordinary Time, Saturday

Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, Feast

Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12. Psalm 46:1-2, 3, 4-5, 7-8. 1 Corinthians 3:9-11, 16-17. John 2:13-22

We are the Church! We have a church!

The Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome is the oldest and highest-ranking of the four major basilicas in the city. Built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, it was originally the pope’s primary residence and church. Known as the ‘Mother and Head of All Churches,’ it holds unique significance for us worldwide as pope announces his doctrines and dogmas from here. Despite being damaged by fires and earthquakes, it was rebuilt several times and remains a centre of Christian faith. Today, it’s the official cathedral of the Bishop of Rome, the Pope.

The church or the temple is significant to us in three ways: (a) It is the visible sign of God’s invisible presence among us. It constantly reminds us that God is with us, and reassures us; (b) It raises our minds and hearts to God, and it raises our thoughts to a higher level; and (c) It is the umbilical cord between God and us, as it passes life to us.

First Reading Reflection [Eze 47:1-2, 8-9, 12]

a. God’s life-giving presence: The vision of water flowing from the temple symbolizes God’s life-giving presence, which renews and transforms everything it touches, inviting us to seek His presence for true refreshment.

b. Abundant growth and healing: The waters bring life to barren lands and healing to saltwater, showing that God’s grace has the power to restore and nurture even the most desolate parts of our lives.

c. Bearing fruit in all seasons: The trees along the river bear fruit year-round, symbolizing how, rooted in God, we can continuously bear the fruits of faith, providing nourishment and healing to others.

Responsorial Psalm Reflection [Ps 46:1-2, 3, 4-5, 7-8]

a. God as our refuge and strength: The psalmist reminds us that God is our constant source of security and courage, especially in times of trouble, calling us to trust in His unshakable presence.

b. Peace amidst chaos: Even when the earth trembles and waters roar, God’s presence brings peace, inviting us to find calm and confidence in Him despite life’s uncertainties.

c. God dwells among His people: God’s presence within the city ensures its stability; this encourages us to recognize His sustaining presence in our lives and communities, knowing He will not abandon us.

Second Reading Reflection [1 Cor 3:9-11]

a. Co-workers with God: Paul reminds us that we are “God’s co-workers,” called to actively participate in His mission, each contributing to the growth and flourishing of His kingdom.

b. Building on a strong foundation: Jesus Christ is the only true foundation for our lives; everything we build—our actions, relationships, and values—must be rooted in Him to endure and bear lasting fruit.

c. Sacredness of God’s building: We are “God’s building,” a dwelling place for His Spirit, encouraging us to treat our lives and communities as sacred spaces dedicated to His glory.

Gospel Reading Reflection [Jn 2:13-22]

a. Zeal for God’s house: Jesus’ passion for cleansing the temple calls us to examine our own hearts and actions, striving to keep them pure and focused on honouring God.

b. True worship over rituals: By driving out the merchants, Jesus teaches that worship should not be transactional but should flow from a sincere, undivided heart dedicated to God.

c. Jesus as the New Temple: Jesus reveals that He is the true temple, the place where God dwells among us. This challenges us to deepen our relationship with Christ, who is now the centre of our worship and faith.

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The ‘pilgrims of hope’ live with a mindset that they are the Church (Jubilee 2025 AD, bite 244).

Yesu Karunanidhi (@ Sower)

Archdiocese of Madurai

Missionary of Mercy