Thursday of the Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time
Or Optional Memorial of Saint Hedwig, Religious
Or Optional Memorial of Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, Virgin
Luke 11:47-54
Becoming a prophet or apostle is ‘dangerous’

Today, Jesus speaks strongly against those who build memorials for the prophets while at the same time rejecting their message. It is easier to honour a prophet of the past than to listen to a prophet in the present. Why? Because real prophets unsettle us; they reveal our arrogance and call us to change.

We often use three weapons against prophets. The first is ridicule: we mock or belittle the person who challenges us. The second is disregard: we simply ignore them, close our ears, and dismiss the message. The third is superiority: we shield ourselves with pride, saying, “Who are you to correct me?” But when we act like this, we close ourselves in a bubble and miss God’s invitation to conversion.

Jesus reminds us that every generation will be held accountable. Our words and actions matter; we cannot just wash our hands like Pilate. We are responsible before God and before our brothers and sisters. It is good to ask: what mistakes have I ignored or refused to own? Today the Lord calls us to put aside ego and arrogance, and to rediscover his merciful heart, which makes us new.

Finally, Jesus warns against blocking the way for others. Sometimes, without realizing it, we put ourselves at the center and draw people to ourselves rather than to Christ. We must remember that Christianity is not about following personalities, but about following Jesus. Our task is simple: live with humility, pray with sincerity, and keep pointing others to Him.

Let us then ask for the grace of simplicity, courage, and accountability. May we honor the prophets not only with words or memorials, but by welcoming their call to live in truth, justice, and love.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025