17 Oct
Fri
28th Week in Ordinary Time
ST IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH, Bishop & Martyr
Rom 4:1-8
Ps 31 (32):1-2, 5, 11
Lk 12:1-7
(Ps Wk IV)
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Jesus speaks firmly to His disciples: "Do not fear those who kill the body, but fear the one who can destroy the soul." These words are not meant to frighten us-they are meant to free us. In a world that often fears aging, suffering, and death, Jesus invites us to a deeper trust: the soul matters more, and life does not end at the grave.

For many, the soul is forgotten, dismissed, or denied. But for those who believe, we know this earthly life is not our final home. We are pilgrims on a sacred journey, destined for heaven. It is the promise of Christ, sealed in His resurrection and offered to all who walk in faith.

St Ignatius of Antioch understood this with radiant clarity. Facing martyrdom, he urged his community not to hinder his rebirth into true life. He did not cling to survival-he embraced salvation. His witness reminds us that faith is not merely about endurance, but about transformation.

St Paul points us to Abraham-not as a man of flawless deeds, but as one who trusted in God's mercy. "Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven." This is the joy of the Gospel: we are not defined by our failures, but by the grace that lifts us. We are to use the things of this world wisely, and not be enslaved by them.



Lord God, lead us on-not in fear, but in faith- knowing that every step taken in love brings us closer to the life You promised.



DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day jul be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
For collaboration between different religious traditions.
Let us pray that believers in different religious traditions might work together to defend and promote peace, justice and human fraternity.
Elaboration

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