In the world but not of this world

Thursday of the 2nd week of Eastertide

John 3:31-36

In the gospel, John distinguishes between "coming from the earth" and "coming from above": "he who is born of the earth is earthly himself and speaks in an earthly way. He who comes from heaven bears witness to the things he has seen and heard."  What would make us Christians "come from heaven" as Jesus did?

"We are in the world, but we are not of this world."

John 17:11-18 coined a popular phrase that could serve as guide to us as we live our Christian ideals while here on earth: "We are in the world, but we are not of this world."  Taking Jesus as the model of our lives, we recognize the grace of our baptism when God snatched us out of this world and made us his adopted children.  We would be encouraged to live out the heavenly ideals while in the world.

"Contemplatives in action"

Second is the Jesuit term "contemplatives in action".  This is a reminder to us to maintain a truly effective relationship with the Lord so we may discern well what belongs to him.  But at the same time, we use this gain to make our decisions and act accordingly while here on earth.  We don't have to act out earthly things.   We may stop and reflect what God's will is and move from there.  In effect, we would sanctify the world.

"Ora et labora"

Third, St. Benedict lived "ora et labora" principle.  The heart of life is our relationship with the Lord.  In prayer, we sing hymns to glorify him.  But outside of prayer, our songs continue bccause our work is a continuation of that song of praise to the Lord.  Our action reflects the joy of our song to God.

Thus, while here on earth, me should not succumb to the ways of the world.  We follow what St. Peter said in the first reading: "It is better for us to follow God rather than man." May we be guided in our daily decisions by the Lord who loves us.

Bibliarasal, your Sunday Homily Guide in Tagalog


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