Memorial of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church
Today’s Reflection
Gospel: Lk 10: 17-24
October 1, 2022 | Saturday
The seventy-two disciples returned full of joy. They said, “Lord, even the demons obeyed us when we called on your name.” Then Jesus replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. You see, I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the Enemy, so that nothing will harm you. Nevertheless, don’t rejoice because the evil spirits submit to you; rejoice, rather, that your names are written in heaven.” At that time, Jesus was filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit, and said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and made them known to little ones. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. I have been given all things by my Father, so that no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son, and he to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.” Then Jesus turned to his disciples and said to them privately, “Fortunate are you to see what you see, for I tell you, that many prophets and kings would have liked to see what you see, but did not see it; and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it.”
Today’s Reflection:
After successfully performing their mission in the towns and villages they were sent to, the seventy-two disciples returned to Jesus rejoicing (v. 17) because demons subjected themselves to them as they used his name. But the Lord said instead: “rejoice because your names are written in heaven” (v. 20). At times, as Christians we tend to rejoice because we accomplish good things. We satisfy ourselves with others’ affirmation, appreciation, approval and admiration. But true appreciation, affirmation, approval and admiration will only be reaped in the eternal life. The good things that we do on earth should serve as our “savings account” in heaven so that when judgment comes, the Lord himself will give us everlasting appreciation, affirmation, approval, and admiration. Let it be a reminder that in all good things we do here on earth, God is to be praised! /Vulnerasti, 2022
