November - 09 - 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time - A

Dedication of the Basilica of St. John on Lateran

Sunday Reflections

A Gallup poll revealed that 78% of North Americans anticipate going to Heaven. Yet, many of them admit they never pray nor study the Scriptures nor go to church. They confess they only think of themselves. Moreover, for them the teaching of the Church (and by it the teaching of Christ) is irrelevant, outdated and non-realistic. Why would God want them in His Heaven? If we don't like being a patsy, why should God be one?

His Kingdom is a prepared place for a prepared people. If you do nothing for your eternity, don’t expect any miracle or God forcing you into it.

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica. Inscribed on its main door are the words: “Mater et caput omnium ecclesiarum urbis et orbis - Mother and head of all churches in the city and the world”. As Cathedral of the Rome - the city where the Prince of the Apostles shed his blood - the Lateran Basilica deserves that title. 

On the Feast of St. John Lateran we hear about the only recorded act of violence by Jesus. With chords he made a rough-and-ready whip and drove the money-changers out of the temple, knocking over their tables. What provoked this uncharacteristic action? The answer is clear: The temple represents the people, Israel before the Lord. Jesus was defending his bride. 

What did I do, for the Church and for myself?

Do I respect the temple of God, the church where I enter to pray and not to chat or to be entertained?

Do I respect the temple of God which is my body?

Do I respect the Church, the Community of brothers and sisters of Christ?