In this reading for the 28th/29th January, the beatitudes of Jesus present a radical challenge to commonly accepted ideas, challenging us to rethink our behaviour and beliefs. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
Gospel Reflections
‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand’
Today’s reading begins the story of the ministry of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘He is the chosen one of God’
In this reading the evangelist focuses on the witness to Jesus given by John the Baptist rather than the self-abasement of Jesus. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘This is my Son, the Beloved; my favour rests on him’
The baptism of Jesus, who is sinless, is a clear expression of his will to stand alongside sinners in order to bring us the fulness of life. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Where is the infant king of the Jews’
The story of the Magi tells us that Jesus is ‘made manifest’ as Messiah not only for his own people, but for all the peoples of the earth. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Mary treasured these things and pondered them in her heart’
This reading asks us to focus on the role and on the behaviour of Mary, the mother of the Messiah, whose fiat is a turning point in history. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘A light that shines in the dark’
The feast of Christ’s birth invites us to renew our faith and welcome the Word of light into our lives again. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son’
This gospel reading, just like the annunciation to Mary in the Gospel of Luke, gives us the basis for our belief in the virginal conception of Jesus. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘‘Happy is the man who does not lose faith in me’’
John expected Jesus to bring retribution rather than the gospel of mercy. In a similar way, it may well be difficult for us to come to terms with the extraordinary love of God, who offers forgiveness to all. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand’
The preaching of John the Baptist prepares us for the coming of Christ. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.