February 27, 2022 - The Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“Lord, it is good to give thanks to you.”

Psalm 92:2a

Readings

Sirach 27:4-7

1 Corinthians 15:54-58

Luke 6:39-45

Reflection

by Sister Dorothy Jean Beyer, OSB

Today’s Gospel Acclamation caught my eye with its beautiful image of light. The readings encourage us to be lights in the world by holding on to the word of life. Jesus is the Word of Light, the Word of God. Holding on to Jesus, we can become lights in the world and lights to the world.

If we hold on to Jesus, we will flourish like the palm tree and the cedar of Lebanon in the courts of our God, as mentioned in the Responsorial Psalm. We will “bear fruit even in old age.” We shall be vigorous and sturdy in the Lord. Even in old age, we shall shine as lights for the world.

Saint Paul in his letter to the Philippians exhorts us to “be firm, steadfast, always fully devoted to the work of the Lord.” Let us pray for the grace to hold strong in our faith and in our work. We do not need to be afraid to be faithful; God gives us victory through the resurrection of Jesus. Jesus, the Light of the world, goes before us, lighting our way.

Saint Luke, in today’s gospel, encourages us to see others and ourselves in the light of humility. Let us open our eyes to see the truth. Let us store up goodness of heart that we may truly see the beauty of our neighbors and ourselves. From our goodness and humility of heart, we will speak words of acceptance and love. Our actions and words be lights in the world. Let us light up the whole world with our lives of love and truth. It will really be something to see.

From the Rule of St. Benedict

“But speak the truth with heart and tongue.” Chapter 4:28

Gospel Acclamation

“Shine like lights in the world as you hold on to the word of life.” Philippians 2: 15d,16a