It is 22nd September 2015. The readings are from Ezr.6:7-8, 12b, 14-20 and the Gospel from Lk.8:19-21. The first reading presents us with the historical context. The people of Israel were given the chance to return to Jerusalem and to rebuild their temple. The prophet Ezra was known as the second Moses, who helped the people of Israel to rediscover the Law. Ezra wants us to know that God never goes back in God’s promises. The fundamental requisite is to listen to the Word of God and to be faithful in following it. The responsorial Psalm sings, “I rejoiced when I heard them say: ‘Let us go to God’s house.’ (Ps.121:1). The Gospel invites us to become listeners of the Word of God and practice it. “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the Word of God and put it into practice.” (Lk.8:21). Listening means to understand the Word and apply it in our lives. After listening to God’s Word, we cannot turn our back and be passive. We not only become mature in our spirituality but also responsible to fulfil what God wants us in our lives. The listening of the Word of God obligates us to live what we listened. We need to become doers of the Word rather than hearers of the Word. Since we do not make an effort to understand, we become familiar with the Word and it does not go deeper into our beings. It is the Word of God offers the privilege to be the family members of Jesus. Indeed, it is not how much so far we have memorized rather how much we have thus far lived it. Let us make an effort to understand the Word of God and apply it in our lives. May God bless you.