Sept. 16

447.doc.

Scripture: Lectionary# 447: I Tim. 6:2-12. Psalm 49:6-7.8-10.17-18.19-20. Luke 8:1-3

“Happy the poor in spirit, the kingdom of heaven is theirs.” Our Psalm Response is an excellent interpretation of what the Scriptures are telling us today. We are encouraged to live out this beatitude through our union and love as disciples of Jesus who are called to live simply and joyously. We learn some of the virtues and dispositions necessary for living in this manner. Integrity, piety, faith, love, steadfastness, and a gentle spirit are part of our life as disciples. These virtues help us to practice the first beatitude Jesus gives us in his Sermon on the Mount.

The Gospel shows us that both men and women are called to be followers of Jesus. The Twelve are mentioned and then Luke gives us the names of three devoted and holy women who followed Jesus and the Twelve and assisted them from their own means. We learn of Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna. Throughout his gospel we will learn the names of other women who were disciples of Jesus, but this small pericope is a gem for it explicitly connects them to Jesus and his Twelve apostles.

The final verse of I Timothy is important for the complete message we are hearing today: “Take firm hold on the everlasting life to which you were called when, in the presence of many witnesses, you made your profession of faith.” All of the persons who were mentioned in the Gospel embraced their discipleship and witnessed to it publically. We are joyous to have their names recorded in Luke so as to make them more life-like for our own creative interpretation and meditation on these passages where names are given. Some probably would have a leading role in the communities of faith that were founded after the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Finally, for another insight into the beatitude given to us for today’s response, we find the following in the Rule of Life of the Marianists—a very active apostolic congregation of brothers, sisters, and priests. The Rule cited is that of the Marianist brothers and priests: “We strive to use simple means to achieve our goals. We are happy to practice hospitality, welcoming others as Christ welcomes us.” ( Marianist Rule of Life, art. 28 under vow of poverty).