Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr
Luke 11: 47 – 54
The danger of preaching the wrong Gospel

Today’s Gospel shows the rising tension between Jesus and the religious leaders. Jesus boldly calls out their hypocrisy—accusing them of honouring the prophets in word but rejecting God’s messengers in action. Just as their ancestors persecuted the prophets, they now seek to kill Jesus, showing their hearts remain unchanged.

This conflict highlights a deeper reality that would soon unfold: Jesus’ suffering and crucifixion. As Christians, we know the way of Christ involves walking the path of sacrifice, just as the prophets did. Luke reminds us that the mission of the Church is inseparable from the mission of Christ—a mission that inevitably leads to hardship and persecution.

The Pharisees, with their proficiency in the Torah, the “key of knowledge” – the Pentateuch – saw themselves as guardians of truth. Yet, they distorted God’s message, making faith a burden for others. Jesus’ critique is not just for them—it echoes for us today. Are we, as leaders, teachers, or even parents, making the Gospel more about rules than love? Are we living the Gospel we preach, or have we made it inaccessible to those we are called to serve?

The persecution of Christ didn’t end with His crucifixion. It continued with the apostles and the early Church, and it persists even now. We must ask ourselves: are we helping to reveal God’s merciful, loving face to the world, especially to the younger generation? Or have we, like the Pharisees, failed to communicate God’s true message of love and forgiveness? Let us reflect deeply on this call to authentic discipleship.

© Claretian Publications, Macau
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2024