St. Jerome, priest, doctor of the Church
Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Nehemiah 8:1-12
Psalm 19:8-11
Luke 10:1-12
A reflection on today's Scripture:
While Ezra read aloud the law of the Lord to the people, he proclaimed that rejoicing in
the Lord must be our strength. Ezra instructed the people to eat and drink together, and
distribute portions to others as well. The law of the Lord is just; we are not to be
frightened by it, but joyfully embrace its concept instead.
As a family is designed to live together, so also shall a community live in the spirit of
harmony; for in the eyes of God we are all brothers. Community actions, such as wedding
receptions, neighborhood picnics, and reunions, to name a few, embolden images of
togetherness. When the air of brotherly love abounds, the law of the Lord is understood
with joy.
In the gospel, Jesus proclaimed that the harvest is abundant but the workers are few
indeed! Jesus set examples through the apostles for us to follow. Preaching the word of
God is a task we are to undertake through everyday example. The smallest act of kindness,
for example, manifests greatly the precepts made known through Jesus's words and actions.
Such actions spread far and wide, for only then can we live in the light of truth and not
in the darkness of mistrust and hatred.
- Steve Green