Gospel Reading: Lk 11:27-28
While Jesus was speaking, a woman from the crowd called out and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nursed.” He replied, “Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.”
BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO HEAR THE WORD OF GOD AND OBSERVE IT
The woman’s blessing of Jesus’ mother attempts to honor his family. It is not unusual in that culture to honor a mother by the accomplishments of her sons (Gn 49:25; Prv 23:24-25). But Jesus transforms the remark into another opportunity to declare where real blessing in life resides – in those who hear and keep God’s word. Richness and fullness of life are not a matter of biological or social origin, but relating well to the Lord of the universe (cf 8:19-21).
Mary is the model disciple who hears God’s word and acts on it.
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SOURCE: “366 Days with the Lord,” ST PAULS, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 895-9701; Fax 895-7328; E-mail: [email protected]; Website: http://www.stpauls.ph.