27th Sunday – Let’s use words to help others discover God’s purpose for their lives.

On this 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time, we, as followers of Christ, are called
to reflect on His love and mercy in a world that can be challenging and
demanding. In a society where words can wound and divide, let us choose to be
healing agents, using loving words flowing from God to our hearts. By doing so,
we allow others to experience the love of God in tangible ways. In the second
reading, St. Paul reminds the Philippians and us not to be anxious about
anything. He encourages us to bring our needs and concerns before God
through prayer and petition, accompanied by thanksgiving. When we do this, the
peace of God, which surpasses all human understanding, will guard our hearts
and minds in Christ Jesus. Through this peace, we find strength to face the
challenges of our lives.
St. Paul further instructs us to focus our thoughts on what is true, honorable,
just, pure, lovely, and gracious. While the world often emphasizes negativity and
discord, we are called to intentionally direct our minds toward what is good and
praiseworthy; thus allowing us to align our thoughts and actions with God’s truth
and goodness.
As followers of Christ, we are called to think about these things and put them
into practice. We are urged to live out the teachings we have learned, received,
heard, and seen in the example of St. Paul and other faithful witnesses. By
embodying the virtues of Christ, we become living testimonies of His presence in
our lives.
Likewise, in today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks of the stone the builders rejected,
which has become the cornerstone. It is a powerful reminder that God’s ways are
not always our ways. Just as God’s love and mercy have transformed our lives,
so must we extend that same kindness and encouragement to others. We should
not look down upon or disrespect one another but rather seek to uplift and
support each other on our faith journey.
Dear brothers and sisters, let us be mindful of the impact of our words on
others. Through our speech and actions, we can radiate God’s love, and witness
to His healing and transformative power. May our words reflect the love and
mercy of Christ, inviting others to embrace God’s ways. So, together, let us be
instruments of God’s love and bring love, healing, and encouragement to those
around us.

Fr. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor