Daily Catholic Lectio
Thu, 5 Nov 2026
XXXI Week in Ordinary Time
Phil 3:3-8. Lk 15:1-10
Being Lost and Being Found
The moments when we ourselves felt lost, and the moments when we searched for something that was lost, may have brought us frustration, tiredness, and sorrow. Yet being lost can also become a space for growth.
Paul describes his journey beautifully: he loses himself completely and finds Christ. Paul is the one who is lost, but the one he finds is Christ. Having found Christ, Paul becomes ready to lose everything for Him.
It is not the “99” in our life that finally defines us, but that one thing which is lost. That “one” is Christ. That one thing is the purpose of our life. When we go in search of it, we lose ourselves. When we find it, we find ourselves.
Reflection on the First Reading (Phil 3:3-8)
(a) Worship beyond rituals
True worship is spiritual. It is not found merely in the external rituals we celebrate. The intimate relationship we establish with Christ is the heart of true worship.
(b) Losing worldly advantages
Our birth, background, education, journey, fame, name, and accumulated wealth all come to us from outside. The value they give us lasts only for a short time. But the value that arises from within us is lasting. That value begins with knowing Christ.
(c) The surpassing value of knowing Christ
Paul considers the knowledge of Christ to be of the highest value. Once he finds what is greater, he is ready to let go of what is lesser. When what is higher comes, what is lower must give way.
Reflection on the Gospel (Lk 15:1-10)
(a) God searches for the lost
The heart of God is a heart that searches for what is lost. Every human person is precious in God’s sight. Everyone is worth searching for.
(b) The joy of conversion and return
When the lost sheep is found, the shepherd rejoices. When the lost coin is found, the woman rejoices. When a lost person is found, God rejoices. Returning brings joy not only to God, but also to us, to our parents, and to our friends.
(c) Sharing the mercy of God
It is good to search for those who are lost. It is good to guide those who have lost the purpose of their life. To help someone rediscover the way is also to share in the mercy of God.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
A Yesni Prays Initiative
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