Reflection for Third Sunday of Ordinary Time Year C 2022

In the Old Testament reading we heard Ezra the priest brought the book before the assembly and read from it. People listened attentively. Ezra stood on a wooden platform and held the scroll for all to see. Ezra blessed the Lord God and the people respond, Amen ! Then, he told the people that today was Holy, that they eat rich foods and drink sweet drinks, not to be sad for the Lord was their strength. Does this account in any way remind us of our liturgy today?
Saint Paul’s letter to the Corinthians names us as the body of Christ. St. Paul begins first by telling the people that the law is no longer only for Jews, it is to be spread to the Gentile world as well – there is one Lord for all. The human body has many parts, each with its own mission. If the hand, foot, ear, or eye is no longer there, the body becomes incomplete. Jesus tells us that each human being is a member of the body of Christ. If all are not there, the body is not the whole, it is incomplete and lacking in fullness . As each person possesses special gifts and performs special ministries, the mission is not complete unless all accept the invitation to participate.
In what are we to participate? The Gospel tells us very clear. Jesus returned to Nazareth where his public ministry began and hold the people that the Scripture was fulfilled in their hearing of it. Jesus told his list that he was sent to bring glad tidings to the poor, liberty to the captives, recovery of eight to the boiling and release to the prisoners. This was the inaugural mission of Jesus. It becomes our mission when we accept our membership in the body of Christ – the Church.
The first reading today should remind us of our Liturgy of the Word. Liturgical celebrations call for participation and call us into action. That is as true today as it was in Old Testament times. The second reading from Saint Paul calls us to action. As with the human body, inactivity leads to lethargy and atrophy. The same is true with whatever gifts and talents we have been given for the Kingdom. Lack of use will lead us to lethargy and atrophy toward the Kingdom. Finally, the Gospel is very clear about what the action should be. Will the mission of Christ be accomplished in us or are we lethargic – indifferent- regarding the Kingdom?
We were given membership in the body of Christ when we were baptized. By that Baptism we are c to accomplish in every way the same mi Jesus was sent to accomplish in his lifetime.
May God bless you all,
Fr. Dominic
Your brother in Christ!