The Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time – June 25, 2023
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June 24, 2023The Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time – June 25, 2023
Matthew 10: “And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather be afraid of one who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna.”
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Many spiritual writers bring before their readers the need for spiritual warfare. The first thing to realize is that there is a battle between good and evil, heaven and earth. Many are complacent, indifferent, or apathetic. Once a person is aware of this struggle then the antidote to the poison can be utilized. The Gospel this Sunday points us to Jesus Christ.
Jesus warns us not to let ourselves become corrupted by the world, the flesh, and the devil. Moderns are often poorly equipped because the soul is not valued as it once was. There is a scientistic notion of who we are. Scientism replaces religion with science, which is not its function. The reality of God’s plan is obscured, ignored, and repudiated. From a denial that we have souls comes many evils, which eventually affect our spirit. Therefore, we must resist this false sense of security and cling to the Lord Jesus Christ, our way, our Truth, and our Life.
Jesus reveals two ways in our pilgrim journey. First, “Do not be afraid!” Second, His love will conquer all things and preserve our souls unto life eternal. In Him we are consoled, embraced, touched, enlightened, and unconditionally loved. In His Church He is always present in the Sacraments and the Word. We strive to encourage and support others as well. That is our sacred duty.
What each of us needs is a profound spiritual revival. Many are going in the wrong direction. We are not presumptuous because we know our frailties. However, in the end we are certain the Lord will triumph as He promised.
Yours in the Immaculate Heart of Mary,
Fr. Mark G. Mazza, Pastor
