Tuesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time
Today’s first reading comes from the eighth chapter of 2 Corinthians. It shows us something about the life of the early Christian communities, how they related to one another, even to the extent of giving financial support.
Early in his career, St. Paul traveled to Jerusalem to discuss with the apostles why he was preaching the Gospel to people who were not Jewish. This was a difficult issue for the early Christians. According to The Acts of the Apostles, the Church leaders, inspired by the Holy Spirit, decided that Paul’s mission to the Gentiles was the will of God.
In appreciation for this decision, St. Paul promised to support the Christians in Jerusalem (cf. Galatians 2:10). He did this by having a collection taken up in the different Christian communities he founded.
Today’s reading deals with this. “The grace of God has been given to the churches of Macedonia … it overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.”
How generous are we with the gifts (not just finances) we have received?
Reflection by Archbishop Jerome Hanus, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections