A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Proverbs 27:1-6,10-12

Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what today may bring. Let others praise you, and not your own mouth-- a stranger, and not your own lips. A stone is heavy, and sand is weighty, but a fool's provocation is heavier than both. Yet, do not let the opinions or statements get under your skin and rile you up. The wrath of others towards us is cruel. The anger others express towards us is overwhelming. When others are jealous of us, are we able to stand strong? While the wrath, anger and jealousy of others may not be what we want, we must realize that open rebuke is better than hidden love. A true friend will inflict wounds on you for a greater purpose but an enemy will lavish you with kisses. Therefore, do not reject a friend when they are brutally honest with you. Better is a stranger who is nearby than family or friends who are far away. Be wise and let joy rule your heart so that you may answer whoever judges or condemns you. There is nothing to be ashamed about in avoiding conflict for the clever see danger and hide; but the simple see danger and in their stubborness walk right into it and invite suffering. 


Philippians 2:1-13

God highly exalted Jesus and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Our encouragement comes from being in full accord and from having the same mind that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death - even death on a cross. Our joy and peace come from sharing together in the Spirit of love, compassion and sympathy. Therefore, do not be selfish or conceited. Rather, in humility, regard others as better than yourself. Look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others. Do what is right, not only in public when others are around but also in private when you are alone. Faith without works is dead; therefore, our thoughts, words and deeds must reflect our faith in Jesus Christ. We should be filled with fear and trembling as we not only desire to do good but also work hard to affect good in the world.


John 18:15-18,25-27

Peter denied Jesus three times before the cock crowed. This is exactly what Jesus had foretold. In what ways are we openly denying Jesus by how we think, speak and act? Is it time for us to confess our shortcomings and commit to following Jesus regardless of the cost of discipleship? If yes, then take a moment right now to do that. If no, then why not now - what are we waiting for? 


To God be the glory now and forever. Amen.

Fr. Thomas+




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