The WORD in other words by Fr Jerry Orbos SVD — Christ the King Seminary, Quezon City
Thursday 1st Week in Ordinary Time
The story is told about a wife who asked her husband: “Honey, I heard somewhere that an average person speaks about 10,000 words a day. Is that true?” The husband said: “Yes, dear, but remember, you are above average!” He was given a silent treatment the rest of the week.
I can relate with the leper in today’s Gospel, who spread far and wide God’s goodness and love.
I, too, had experienced God’s healing of my lung cancer last year. The surgery and the four cycles of chemotherapy that ensued led to my treatment, but I know in my heart that it was the Lord’s grace and mercy that led to my physical healing and spiritual and emotional healing as well. In gratitude, in humility, and in joy, I acknowledge the greatness of God whenever I can, and I praise and glorify God always and in all ways.
“How can I repay the Lord for His goodness to me?” All of us should be busy spreading God’s goodness gratefully, for all of us are recipients of God’s tremendous grace and blessings.
KERYGMA – all of us should be busy proclaiming and spreading the good news of God’s presence and love.
Let us ask ourselves today: What have I done, and what am I doing the rest of my life to spread the reality of God’s presence and love in my life? It is not enough to share our thoughts, opinions, or knowledge of God. We must not be afraid; we must not hold back to share our personal religious experiences and encounter with God. Yes, we must be “above average” when it comes to speaking about God, and proclaiming His goodness, presence, and love.
