Daily Catholic Lectio
Fri, 19 September ‘25
Twenty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time, Friday
1 Timothy 6:2-12. Luke 8:1-3
Discipleship in Equality and Service
1. Women as True Disciples of Jesus
Scripture: Luke highlights that women—Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and many others—accompanied Jesus and supported His ministry (Lk 8:1–3).
Reflection: In a world where women were often invisible, Jesus brought them into the heart of His mission. Their presence reminds us that discipleship is not defined by gender but by faith and service.
Pastoral Application: Do we, as Church, give women their rightful space and voice in mission today? Discipleship calls for recognition of gifts across all vocations.
2. Horizontal Relationships in the Household of Faith
Scripture: Paul urges Timothy to teach that godliness is not a means for selfish gain but a call to contentment and equality (1 Tim 6:3–6).
Reflection: The early Church was marked by horizontal bonds—brothers and sisters in Christ, co-responsible for the Gospel. Hierarchy exists, but communion flows from mutual respect and shared mission.
Pastoral Application: In our ministries, do we treat others as co-workers in Christ, or as subordinates to be controlled? Discipleship means walking side by side.
3. Pursue Righteousness, Not Domination
Scripture: Paul exhorts: “Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness” (1 Tim 6:11). These are the marks of authentic discipleship.
Reflection: Power and domination fracture communities, but humility and love build them. The women disciples in Luke exemplified generosity and service rather than authority-seeking.
Pastoral Application: What am I truly pursuing—position, control, or the virtues of Christ? Discipleship is credible only when grounded in humility and love.
Conclusion
The Gospel’s mention of women disciples shatters cultural barriers and affirms horizontal, family-like relationships in the Church. Paul’s exhortation to Timothy reminds us that leadership is not about gain or superiority but about righteousness, faith, and love. To be Christ’s disciples today means walking together, men and women, in humility and service, so that the Kingdom grows through communion and witness.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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