It is 10th September 2020. The readings are from 1 Corinthians 8:1-7, 11-13; and the Gospel from Luke 6:27-38.
We all have some doubts about what to eat and what not to eat.
In the first readings and Paul addresses that whether to eat something sacrificed to idols. In taking the decision we need to include the community that we belong and the culture we come from rather to have the individual stance ignoring the community is not going to be fruitful. All the decisions we make have some impact on the community so the decision we make need to be towards building up a community by an individual action.
Jesus says, “It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but it is what comes out of the mouth that defiles.” (Mt.15:11). The question for Corinthians was whether to eat or not to eat the food offer to idols. Even if our decision is personal, we need not influence the other because we are convinced of something. In no circumstance, our choices become a stumbling block to our community. We need to forego eating something that disturbs the conscience of the other. By all means, we need to avoid being scandalous to the community. If we have love we will be sensitive, empathetic, and caring towards the other brother or sister in our community.
At times, we find it hard to accept any change. Adapt a new change we need the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Be flexible does not mean to compromise. Unity of the church comes in front in all we do and say. We need not be scrupulous and indifferent towards the other because of our own choices. Therefore, if food is a cause of my brother’s or sister’s falling, I will never eat meat at the cost of others to fall.
The responsorial Psalm praise, “Lead me Lord in the path of life eternal.” (Ps.139:24).
We continue to read the beatitudes in the gospel about living a fruitful life. It is not that easy to let go someone who has hurt us. What we are taught today is to emulate the model of God who loves and shows kindness to the ungrateful and the wicked. Practically it looks extremely hard but spiritually it is rewarding. There is no limit in giving to the other. The way we handle on another is the way we will be handled. To judge, to forgive and to give is a human effort bringing the heart of God closer to those in need. May the Lord strengthen us to live a fruitful life. God bless you.