Wednesday of the Twenty-seventh Week in Ordinary Time
Or Optional Memorial of Saint John Leonardi
Or Optional Memorial of Saint Denis, Bishop and Martyr, and his Companions, Martyrs

Gal 2:1-2, 7-14
Luke 11:1-4
Check your lockers and wardrobes

Paul firmly believed that the Jewish law did not bind Christians and was unapologetic about it. Despite his strong Jewish background and upbringing, he underwent a transformative experience in which he realised that God chose him to spread the message of God’s Son to the Gentiles. After consulting with Peter and James in Jerusalem, he was reassured and confirmed in his mission. This resolved the question of the Gentiles not being bound to follow the Jewish law.

Paul did not mince words when faced with double standards from the apostles. He was pleased that Peter dined openly with Gentile Christians in Antioch but later abstained from doing so when Jewish Christians arrived from Jerusalem. Paul addressed Peter about this hypocrisy, stressing that the Law of Christ goes beyond the Jewish law and requires love for God and neighbour.

Today, in a world marked by division, inequality, and individualism, the Lord’s prayer urges us to work towards peace and reconciliation.

When we pray for our “daily bread,” it has profound implications, especially in a time dominated by materialism and self-sufficiency. By repeating this prayer, we are essentially promising the Lord that we will be content with what we have for today. This aligns with the Book of Proverbs, which states, “Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that I need, or I shall be full, and deny you, or I shall be poor, and steal, and profane the name of my God.” (30:8-9)

It’s important for us to examine our lockers, wardrobes, and storage spaces to identify any excess possessions that could render our recitation of the Lord’s prayer meaningless.

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