it, but the one who loses his life, for my sake, will find it. What will one gain by winning the
whole world, if he destroys his soul? Or what can a person give, in exchange for his life?
Know, that the Son of Man will come, in the glory of his Father with the holy angels, and
he will reward each one according to his deeds. Truly, I tell you, there are some
standing here who will not taste death, before they see the Son of Man coming in
his kingdom.”
Reflect
Have you ever stopped to think about the immensity of the gift of faith and how blessed we
are that God has called us to be his people? It is easy to take the gift of faith for granted,
seeing it as our due or even as part of the background, more a part of the culture like a
special food or holiday than a personal relationship with a loving God. Today’s first reading
from the Book of Deuteronomy is an extended reflection on God’s goodness in calling us to
be his people and live in faith, according to his commands. Still, the Gospel reminds us that
this gift, like any relationship, comes with obligations. God calls us to be his people and to
follow him, but that means following him to the cross. Living our faith and being obedient to
God’s will requires sacrifice and self-denial. We will need to put others first and accept our
daily crosses and suffering. But we are strengthened by knowing that God is with us
through it all. The one who died for us will keep us close through life and bring us to
everlasting life.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2023