In the first part of this gospel passage Jesus makes it clear that suffering is not necessarily brought about by sin, before stressing the need for repentance when we, like the fig tree in the parable, are lacking in ‘fruitfulness’. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
Gospel Reflections
‘This is my Son, the Chosen One. Listen to him’
The story of the Transfiguration invites us to accompany Jesus as he journeys through death to the life of the resurrection, a life which God prepares for us too, a life we can scarcely imagine. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘You must worship the Lord your God, and serve him alone’
Jesus’ encounter with the devil mirrors what his ministry is all about – to overcome evil with goodness is the constant challenge of the gospel. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Take the plank out of your own eye first’
In this reading Jesus speaks about the need to recognise our own faults before criticising others. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Treat others as you would like them to treat you’
In this reading a radical new teaching is given to all the disciples of Jesus, that we should love our enemies. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘How happy are you who are poor: yours is the kingdom of God’
It is quite clear from the beatitudes that Jesus challenges the opinions of his own day, and indeed of ours – making clear that suffering and loss are an extraordinary channel of blessing. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘From now on it is men you will catch’
In this reading about the call of the first disciples, Jesus tells Peter not to be afraid, words repeatedly heard in the Scriptures when a person is called to take up a mission for God. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘No prophet is ever accepted in his own country’
In this reading the people of Nazareth react in annoyance, reject Jesus and threaten physical violence. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘He has sent me to bring the good news to the poor’
Luke begins his gospel with the visit of Jesus to the synagogue in Nazareth because he wants us to recognize that Jesus is the long-awaited anointed one of God. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘He let his glory be seen’
The transformation of the water into wine in this week’s reading tells us that Jesus brings a new time, a time of richness and fulfilment. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.