First Reading: Ez. 1:2-5, 24-28c
Psalm: Ps. 148:1-2, 11-12, 13, 14
Gospel: Mt. 17:22-27
In modern times, there is juridical separation between church and state in all Christian countries. The Church has no political power while the state may not interfere in the affairs of the Church. This is how it should be. Even Jesus always refused to be acknowledged as a political leader. Remember what he told Pilate during his Passion, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, then my subjects would have come to my defense.” Jesus further said, “I have come to witness to
the truth.” This is the mission of every Christian.
We are all called to be witnesses to the truth. And the truth is that God loves us, that He has sent His Son to die for us and his Son Jesus has risen from the dead. We are called to evangelize, to proclaim this good news. The Church calls men to become sons of heaven, to form a
holy nation. Of course, there are times when she speaks out against human injustices, corrupt governments, evildoers, etc. This is also witnessing to the truth. But she has the primary task of preaching the love of God shown in Jesus Christ. Her task is to gather men into God’s kingdom. Her mission comes from heaven and no government can supersede or suppress it.
What are we doing to bring about God’s reign here on earth? Are we too busy with our affairs to forget that we must be busy with our Father’s business? Blessed is the man who is called to witness to Jesus Christ, he has the greatest job on earth.
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