*REFLECTION FOR TUESDAY OF THE TWENTY-THIRD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME* *YEAR II* 

The Liturgy of today invites us all to respond positively to the call God is making of us to join in the spread of the Gospel message of peace and reconciliation. As part of the Kingdom, faithfulness to our calling not negotiable. 

   In today's gospel (Luke 6: 12-19), Jesus shows that silence of the heart is so necessary for us to hear God from everywhere. Jesus, after praying, chose His twelve Apostles (ones sent) from His disciples and went on practically to lead them into their mission by preaching to those who gathered to listen to Him and healed their diseases. Jesus manifested the two most enduring qualities of God- compassion and love. 

   St. Paul in the first reading (1 Cor 6: 1-11) chides the Corinthians for their failure in remaining faithful to their call. Being now counted among the Chosen People, they are expected to live in peace as brothers and sisters, settling disputes among them with the compassion and mercy it deserves. It is only in this regard that they can be true to their calling. 

   Dear friends, When the Lord calls us to serve, we must not shrug back because we think that we have little or nothing to offer. The Lord takes what ordinary people, like us, can offer and uses it for greatness in his kingdom. Is there anything holding you back from giving yourself unreservedly to God?

   I pray as we journey in life today, we will live reflecting God's compassion and love as those called and chosen to continue the salvific mission of Jesus. In oneness with Jesus, may we be gracious and merciful, slow to anger and great in kindness towards our neighbours. May we eschew selfishness and live for the good of others. Have a compassion and love-full day!