Next week, on the Third Sunday of Ordinary Time, we will celebrate the Sunday of the Word of God for the first time. Last year Pope Francis instituted the Sunday of Word of God, “so as to appreciate the inexhaustible riches contained in that constant dialogue between the Lord and his people” (Misericordi et Misera, 7).
The Scriptures are treasures filled with countless riches! From Genesis to Revelation, God speaks to us in human language. By speaking to us, God reveals his part in this great love story: “God is love, and whoever remains in love remains in God and God in him” (1 John 4:16). In the Archdiocese of Detroit, we hear a lot about the power of the Word of God. We speak of the Gospel as something to be unleashed. We recognize that the Word of God has the potential to change hearts. When we proclaim the Word to others, they encounter the power of the Word and the person of the Word: Jesus Christ. But have you personally spent enough time hearing what Jesus is saying to you through the Word? Pope Francis is asking everyone in the Church, every diocese, parish, family, and parishioner, to read and listen to the Word of God anew.
In preparation for the celebration of the Sunday of the Word of God, consider your favorite Scripture passage.
· How has God used it to speak to you, change your heart, lead you, or bring you peace?
· Ask yourself how can I be open in these coming days to receive the gift of loving the Word of God more?
· How can I make my own these words from today’s psalm, “In the written scroll it is prescribed for me, to do your will, O my God, is my delight, and your law is within my heart” (Psalm 40:8-9)?
Reverend Brian Meldrum
Gratitude
The true meaning of Christmas is giving and sharing the love and reaching to those who have touched our lives. It’s a time to count our blessings and be grateful for them. My heart is filled with joy and happiness to appreciate all of you for sending me beautiful Christmas cards and wishes. In a special way, I would like to thank you for your generosity and kindness. you are greatly appreciated. It’s been my pleasure to be with you celebrating Christmas and New Year. Wish you God’s abundant blessings on your families.
Fr. Kishore Babu Battu SAC