BLESSED DISCIPLESHIP

“Blest are they who hear the word of God and keep it.” –Luke 11:28

Mass Readings: October 8
First: Galatians 3:22-29; Resp: Psalm 105:2-7; Gospel: Luke 11:27-28

Mary prophesied that all ages would call her blessed (Lk 1:48). This prophecy was fulfilled when a woman cried out to Jesus: “Blest is the womb that bore You and the breasts that nursed You!” (Lk 11:27) Jesus replied that Mary and each of us are blessed by being disciples of Jesus, that is, those “who hear the word of God and keep it” (Lk 11:28).

Being a disciple of Jesus means being blessed as Mary was and saying with her: “I am the slave of the Lord. Let it be done to me according to your word” (Lk 1:38, our transl). Being a disciple of Jesus means having the blessed privilege of denying our very selves and taking up our crosses daily (Lk 9:23). Being a disciple of Jesus means being a blessing to all nations (see Gn 12:2-3) by making disciples of all nations (Mt 28:19).

Jesus said to His disciples: “Blest are your eyes because they see and blest are your ears because they hear” (Mt 13:16). All ages to come will call Mary, and Jesus’ other disciples, blessed. Blessed are you!

PRAYER: Father, bless us disciples and these Thy gifts.

PROMISE: “All of you who have been baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Him.” –Gal 3:27

PRAISE: Martha asked her employer to allow her to say “God bless you!” to customers, and was pleased to be granted consent.