Baruch 4:5-12, 27-29
Psalm 69:33-35, 36-37
Luke 10:17-24
Summary
Israel is reminded of its forsaking of God; but God promises Israel sal-
vation and “enduring joy” upon the repentance of their hearts. The
Psalmist reminds Israel of God’s promise of salvation, “For God will
save Zion and rebuild the cities of Judah”. Lastly, Jesus heartens his
disciples to rejoice in their salvation because their “names are written in
heaven”.
Reflection
Nothing should give us greater joy than the knowledge that we are
God's beloved disciples and that our “names are written in heaven”.
However, throughout our lives we may have doubted whether or not such grace
by God is possible…I certainly have.
During my childhood and early adulthood, I was angry with God for many rea-
sons. Just like the Israelites, I had forsaken God; I turned my back on him. As a
child, I cried, “Where were you when I needed you the most? Why do you allow
pain and sadness?” As a young adult, I felt abandoned by God, “Why did you
give me life?” I felt so alone. As a result, I immersed myself in secularity and
schooling with the purpose of forgetting about God.
But God was there all along! God had a plan, “Before I formed you in the womb I
knew you, before you were born I dedicated you” – Jer.1:5. I was not aban-
doned. God took a reluctant and angry boy, born to poor immigrant parents, and
led him through poverty and violence, to become a man who now has a Doctor-
ate degree and teaches at a Christian University. That boy is now a proud father
of two beautiful children and husband to a wonderful woman. In my weakness
and incredulity, God was only making me a stronger servant and beloved disciple.
Our spiritual journey through these readings provides us with lessons for Christian
living and discipleship. Prayer is at the heart of the mission and ministry that Je-