13th Sunday in Ordinary time, A

The first reading from the second book of Kings may seem like a simple repayment for a hospitable gesture.  But it is much more.  The women served Elisha because she can see God in him because he is a prophet of the Lord.  Thus, she is serving the Lord above all others.

In the gospel, Jesus warned those who give priority to their families rather than to him: "He who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me."  This statement is so true.  If we prioritize our families more than we love God, it shall be manifest immediately in the lifestyle of the family.  Whereas we give priority to God, we end up becoming good fathers and mothers, husbands and wives, and good children.  This is the essence of what it means to be a good Christian.

How are we to give priority to God then?

First, let us recognize that without God we are nothing.

Second, let us appreciate what Jesus did for us.

Third, let our faith in the Lord be manifest in our concrete actions on mercy.

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