31st Sunday in Ordinary Time – May our actions and attitudes be a testament to God’s love.

As we approach the end of the liturgical year, the readings on this 31st
Sunday in Ordinary Time prompt us to reflect on our obedience to God’s
commandments and our commitment to giving glory to His name. In the first
reading, the prophet Malachi warns us that failing to listen and observe God’s
commandments can result in a curse rather than a blessing. His message
prompts us to look back on our actions and attitudes during the past ten months.

The month of November holds special significance within the Church as it is
dedicated to praying for our deceased loved ones. This remembrance is an
opportunity to keep their memories alive and to pray for the repose of their souls.
It is a reminder that our lives are interconnected, both with those who have gone
before us and with the eternal presence of God. It is also a call for us to examine
our lives and consider whether we are keeping God’s commandments and living
in a way that brings glory to His name and not to ourselves.

In the second reading St. Paul presents himself as an example of
selflessness and humility. He describes his approach to leadership within the
community, emphasizing that he did not burden others, but rather worked
diligently to serve them. He sought to bring glory to God’s name by putting others
first. St. Paul’s attitude reveals his desire to be a giver rather than a taker,
mirroring the selflessness of Christ Himself.

We are called to follow St. Paul’s example and examine our own lives and
ask ourselves if we are living for others. When we live as Jesus did and selflessly
serve others, we too bring glory to God’s name. God, in His infinite love, came to
serve and give everything to us.

Acknowledging that he prays and strives to grow in his faith, St. Paul is
emphasizing the importance of prayer and personal growth in our relationship
with God. As we deepen our understanding of God’s commandments and live
accordingly, we become living testimonies of His love and grace.

Dear brothers and sisters, let us be mindful of the example set by St. Paul
and strive to be gentle and selfless in our interactions with others. As the end of
the liturgical year approaches, let us take time to reflect on our lives and renew
our commitment to living in a way that gives glory to God. May our actions and
attitudes be a testament to His love, and may we continually strive to grow in our
faith, bringing others closer to Him through our words and deeds.

Fr. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor