Pro-life reflections and intercessions related to the Sunday readings
In the first reading, the apostles, who had gathered together as a body in Jerusalem, said, “It is the decision of the Holy Spirit and of us not to place on you any burden beyond these necessities.” To some, this may sound presumptuous, but the Apostles were aware that their decision had a special quality, so that it could be said that they were acting with the Holy Spirit.
Read MoreIn today’s First Reading, we hear how Israel’s kings have failed in their responsibilities for the welfare of their people. The shepherds, charged to gather and protect, have instead “scattered God’s flock and driven them away” by not attending to them. They have abandoned their true ministry and failed to teach the people the true demands of the covenant and the right practice of religion. To avoid becoming like those kings, we must be careful to remain diligent in our work of preaching the Gospel.
Read MoreIn the Gospel account, Jesus demonstrates power and authority by casting out the devil, and the people who hear Him preach regard Him as a person of impressive authority. His word, His style of teaching, and His authority were the source of His ability to change lives. Rather than ordering or coercing them, our Lord influenced people to change.
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