📖 Readings for the Day
First Reading: 1 Timothy 4:12–16
“Let no one have contempt for your youth, but set an example for those who believe, in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity… Be diligent in these matters, be absorbed in them, so that your progress may be evident to everyone.”
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 111:7–10
“The works of His hands are faithful and just; all His precepts are trustworthy… The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.”
Gospel: Luke 7:36–50
A woman, known in the city as a sinner, brought an alabaster jar of ointment. She stood behind Jesus, weeping, and bathed His feet with her tears… Jesus said to her, ‘Your sins are forgiven… Your faith has saved you; go in peace.’”
I. Introduction
Today’s readings invite us to reflect on genuine humility born from love and repentance. The Gospel shows a woman, labeled a sinner, who humbly approaches Jesus with love and sorrow, while the Pharisee judges her. This moment reveals that God’s mercy is greater than our sin, and that humility is the gateway to forgiveness.
II. The Gospel Passage and Its Context
Luke 7:36–50 happens during a meal at a Pharisee’s house. The Pharisee, confident in his righteousness, shows little hospitality to Jesus, while the woman, aware of her sin, lavishes Him with love and tears. Jesus contrasts their attitudes: the one forgiven much loves much. This underscores the truth that repentance, not self-righteousness, opens the door to grace.
III. Broader Scriptural Resonance on Humility
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James 4:6 — “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
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Micah 6:8 — “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”
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Matthew 5:3 — “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
These passages remind us that humility is not weakness but strength—acknowledging our need for God’s mercy.
IV. Reflections
The woman in the Gospel is an image of every soul who has fallen yet longs to be restored. She didn’t care about public judgment; her only concern was to love Jesus. In contrast, the Pharisee’s pride blinded him from recognizing his own need for mercy.
Humility allows us to approach God honestly, without pretense. When we admit our brokenness, God can fill us with His love and forgiveness. Like the woman, we too can hear Jesus say: “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
V. Practical Applications
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💧 Go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation with sincerity.
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💬 Speak kindly and humbly, avoiding judgmental words.
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🙏 Set aside time daily to thank God for His mercy.
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💖 Practice forgiveness toward others who have wronged you.
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📖 Live as an example, especially to the young, in speech, conduct, and faith (1 Tim 4:12).
VI. Conclusion
True greatness in God’s eyes is not measured by how perfect we are but by how humble we are before Him. Like the repentant woman, may we bring our tears, our love, and our hearts to Jesus—and find peace.
🌟 Quote for Emphasis
“Humility is the door through which the Lord enters the heart.”
— St. Augustine
📜 Verse of the Day
Luke 7:50
“Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
🙏 Prayer for the Reader
Lord Jesus,
Thank You for loving us even in our brokenness. Like the repentant woman, we come before You with humble hearts. Cleanse us with Your mercy and teach us to walk in humility and love. May our lives be living examples of Your forgiveness to others. Strengthen our faith so we may always choose You above all.
Amen. ✨
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