Memorial of Saint Bonaventure, Bishop and Doctor of the Church
Jesus shows us in today’s Gospel that a true Christian attitude must conform to the teachings contained in the whole Gospel. Smart-talk and sweet-talk alone are simply not Christian. Faith in Jesus Christ does not mean just knowing him, being a noted theologian, or admiring him for his loving kindness to the blind and deaf. It means having a heart opened to daily conversion. What does that mean? Let’s read today’s Gospel prayerfully.
Earlier in his ministry, Jesus announced the Good News to the people living in the towns around the lake, and he worked miracles to confirm what he taught. They seemed enthusiastic at the time. Now, they are unmoved, seemingly taken up with superficial matters. What will be their reward? “Will you be exalted to heaven? You will go down to the netherworld.” Wow! Heavy talk from “sweet” Jesus!
So, to be a Christian, a true follower of Christ, does not mean one can mouth theological and philosophical truths and be “nice”. However important this is, it is not the essential. What is essential is a heart open daily to conversion to the whole Gospel message, to the workings of the Holy Spirit to make us understand it so as to be more Christ-like.
Resolve: I shall say special prayers to Jesus today asking him that I and those for whom I pray to be open to the Holy Spirit in his work to convert us to be truly Christ-like.