Memorial of St John Chrysostom

Col. 3:1-11, Lk. 6:20-26. In today’s first reading, Paul equates the old, soiled clothing with the life of vices that we must leave behind. Thus, Paul alludes to the Baptismal Rite in which those who are “plunged” into the waters of salvation, disrobe and put behind them their old clothes. As believers, Paul urges us to “Be intent on the things above” and to be “formed anew in the image of the Creator.” Paul points out the earthly vices which must not be part of our new life: immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, greed, anger, fury, malice, slander, obscene language and lying. If we are clothed in Christ and united with those who are one with Jesus, we must put on the right attitude in line with the Gospel value.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus proclaims the right attitude for a complete reversal of fortunes, where the rich become poor, while the poor are enriched. Those who are filled become wanting, while those who are without the necessities of life are satisfied beyond expectation. Those who are experiencing hardship and sorrows are blessed with abundant joy, while those who are happy and content with their way of life are left in a miserable state. We come before the Lord in our poverty, our hunger, our sadness because in such times we realise that we are not self-sufficient. Knowing our need can open up space for God to work in our lives, whereas in time of plenty we can easily be self-satisfied and dispense with God. St John Chrysostom (349 - 407) opened up for God and became a fruitful and effective preacher. His sermons and writings did much to explain the Catholic faith and to encourage the living of the Christian life: his eloquence earned him the surname “Chrystostom,” the Greek for “Golden Mouth.”

May the Lord help us to form the right attitude towards life and never let us stretch out our hands to evil deeds, nor be destroyed by the insidious snares of the enemy, but bring us to share the lot of the saints in light! Amen!! Have a wonderful day!!!