It is 24th October 2015. We celebrate the memorial of St. Anthony Mary Claret, the Bishop. The readings are from Rom.8:1-11 and the Gospel from Lk.13:1-9. The first reading speaks of the importance of the Spirit of Christ, the Holy Spirit. For St. Paul, there is no distinction between Christ and the Spirit. Whenever we live in Christ, we live in the Spirit. Christ resides in us and so the Spirit. The Spirit of God raised Jesus from the dead. By allowing the Holy Spirit to work in us, we will be given the power and freedom. The Responsorial Psalm acclaims, “Such are the people who seek your face, O Lord.” (Ps. 23:6). The Gospel reminds us that God is so merciful to us time and time again. Untoward things that happen around us are only warning for us to repent. God wants to give us a second chance through his deep love. Yes, by the justice of God we are condemned and punished. But through the Mercy of God, we are given all the help by God to change. God expects us to be fruitful. God visits our life looking for good works. How long can our life be barren without good works? Is he going to give us one more moment of life to be fruitful in word and deed? We cannot take God for granted. God does not wait indefinitely. “It may bear fruit next year; if not, then you can cut it down.” (Lk.13:9). May the Lord grant you peace to be fruitful.

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