And every day he was teaching in the temple area.

luke 19:47

Luke 19:45-48

Reflection

Jesus arrives at the temple in Jerusalem and immediately drives out all who are selling various items. He begins to teach daily in the temple, while the chief priests, Pharisees, scribes, and leaders of the people plot to kill him. Yet they cannot, for “all the people were hanging on his words.”

Jesus’ power and authority are on full display here. First, in his driving out the merchants from the temple, and then in the crowds who attentively listen to his teachings. Do we hang on to every word Christ preaches? Are we listening intently, truly taking in what he tells us, from Scripture, the Church, and personal prayer?

Jesus’ words are powerful, they are truth. They show us the way to eternal life, and are not something to be tossed aside lightly. While we don’t have the privilege to hear Jesus’ voice and words in the flesh, we do have sacred Scripture which proclaims his voice and message down through the ages, its power not diminishing.

How are you responding to the Word? Ask Jesus for greater faith in hearing his voice and responding to his call. He has the words of everlasting life – they’re worth hanging on to.

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Saint of the Day

St. Cecilia: born 2nd century AD, died 3rd century AD

“To die for Christ is not to sacrifice one’s youth, but to renew it. It is relinquishing a perishable thing and receiving in turn an immortal gift.” St. Cecilia