Commentary on the Gospel of
Read: The Book of Maccabees narrates the moving story of a mother and her sons who received martyrdom at the hands of King Antiochus. They fearlessly faced martyrdom because they steadfastly believed in the resurrection. Through the story of a woman who was married successively to seven brothers, Sadducees question Jesus about life in the resurrection. Jesus affirms the fact of the resurrection, but explains that life in the resurrection defies any comparison to life on earth. Paul prays that God may gift us with steadfastness, hope, and faith.
Reflect: How great is the faith of the mother and the sons who willingly gave up their lives! If I were to face such a choice, what would my response be? Do I truly believe in the resurrection? Am I willing to risk everything I have for the sake of my faith? What does it mean to me when Jesus says, “God is God of the living and for him all are alive”?
Pray: Pray for the grace of remaining faithful to the Gospel in challenging times. Pray for the many Christians in the world who are being persecuted for their faith.
Listen: What does Jesus tell me about my life in the resurrection?
Act: Read a book on Christian martyrs.
Paulson Veliyannoor, CMF
frpaulson@gmail.com
