Sunday, June 28, 2020

THIRTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

"Attitude is everything. Your attitude reflects in your actions, choices and decisions.
As a Christian, your attitude must be Christ-like.”
- Fr. Emmanuel Asamoah-Bekoe

In our modern-day global village our attitudes have influenced our values, identity and perceptions in our society. This speaks voluminously about our background, experiences, beliefs and worldview. It has become ever easier for people to tell who you are per your attitudes. Indeed, attitudes tell your qualities and what you stand for. It can also expose your associations and relationships. It defines your character. Therefore, attitude is everything. Your attitude reflects in your actions, choices and decisions. As a Christian, your attitude must be Christ-like. Grow the right attitude!

In our first reading, the woman from Shunem had the right attitude of hospitality towards the prophet of God, Elisha. She was generous and charitable to him by offering support to aid his work. This attitude reflected in her decision. This shows that she was a God-fearing woman who had reverential regard for Elisha and his ministry, though a stranger to her. Little did she know that God was going to reward her with what she had been dreaming of. God is touched when we have good attitudes in our faith. How do you respond to strangers and those who are in need? Be hospitable and charitable; it could bring miracles in your life.

The Apostle Paul in the second reading teaches that the fruits of our sacramental baptism include newness of life, engendering the hope of resurrection and eternal life. Dying with Christ and rising with Him gives us the supernatural grace to overcome our weakness of inclination to sin. You must live your life for God through Christ Jesus. Hence, the waters of Baptism should transform our wrong attitudes to good ones. As a baptized Christain, there should a difference in your attitude. Yours must be Christ-like. One that reflects the Christ in you to the world.

Finally, in our gospel reading Jesus Christ admonished His disciples to make the right commitment in life. They should avoid misplaced priorities in their vocation. He was not by any means trivializing the significance of family bond and relationships. Rather, He was encouraging them to place their love of God and commitment to Him far and above every other thing. The premium must be placed on their discipleship and mission.

Therefore, developing the right attitude in their ministry was a recipe for successes and progress. And anyone who has the appropriate attitude towards the work of God will be rewarded. This attitude includes surrendering personal interests, attachments, and everything for the sake of Christ. It goes with making sacrifices. It's your choice but depends on your attitude in your faith. Jesus invites all of us to take up our cross and follow Him. May God be with you.

Stay Healthy... PRAY... Keep the Faith... Let's meet in Church....

Let the right attitude lead...

Fr. Emmanuel

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