THIRTIETH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR (C)
1st Reading: (Sirach 35:12c-14.16-18b)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 34:2-3.17-18.19 and 23 (R. cf. 7a)
2nd Reading: (2 Timothy 4:6-8.16- 15)
Acclamation: 2 Corinthians 5:19
Gospel Reading: (Luke 18:9- 14)
MartinsMary Uker
Beloved in Christ, today’s readings invite us into the sacred heart of Christian discipleship—humility before God,confidence in His justice, and perseverance in faith.
Sirach reminds us that God shows no partiality; He listens attentively to the cry of the poor, the orphans, and the widows. (Sirach 35:12-14). Heaven bends low to hear those whom the world ignores. The prayer that rises from genuine humility is not lost in the noise of life—it pierces the clouds and reaches the throne of grace.
In the second reading, St. Paul stands as a bold witness of perseverance: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Tim. 4:7). Despite abandonment and trials, he knows the Lord stands with him and that righteousness awaits those who remain faithful. His testimony reminds us that success in God’s eyes is not measured by applause, but by faithfulness to the mission entrusted to us.
The Gospel presents a striking contrast between two men at prayer: the proud Pharisee and the humble tax collector. The Pharisee, filled with self-righteousness, prayed to himself, praising his own virtues. The tax collector, aware of his brokenness, prayed simply: “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” (Luke 18:13). Jesus reveals the surprising outcome—the humble man goes home justified. God uplifts the lowly and humbles the arrogant (Luke 18:14).
In a world that celebrates pride, achievements, and self-glory, Jesus teaches us that true greatness lies in sincere repentance and recognizing our deep dependence on God. As St. Augustine wisely said: “It was pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels.”
Likewise, C.S. Lewis adds: “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.”
Today’s liturgy calls us to authentic prayer, compassion for the weak, and unwavering endurance in faith. Let us approach the Lord with a heart that is contrite, compassionate, and courageous—knowing that those who humble themselves will be exalted, protected, and crowned with eternal life.
May God grant us the grace to pray like the tax collector, persevere like St. Paul, and trust like the poor in Sirach—so we may walk daily in the truth that our help comes from the Lord, the Just Judge and Merciful Father.
Amen.
My Reflection on the Readings
The readings for this Sunday makes me understand that before God we are all the same, whether rich or poor, from one culture or another because the commandments as handed down by Moses are for both Jews and gentiles. Any cultural group therefore that engages in practices contrary to the law of God will face the consequences so prescribed.
The first reading tells us that God is a just judge who hearkens to the cry of both the poor and the rich who approach him in humility.
We sometimes make the mistake of using our own parameters to determine who we believe is righteous before God but we forget that God alone has the power to search what a man is harbouring in his heart. What we present outwardly may not be what God perceives inwardly. Even in judging ourselves we should not be too quick to assume we are already sure candidates for heaven, just because we are doing everything the church teaches. Such dangerous thoughts can even lead us to assume that our righteousness is what would take us to heaven. Only God is able to judge justly and in humility we should continue to rely on his mercy to make it to heaven. Just like the psalmist says "All who trust in the Lord will not be condemned"
My Reflection
"The syndrome of I better pass my neighbour.
Why do we always compare ourselves better than others. Like the small generator, popularly called "I better pass my neighbours."
The Phariseetic attitude is a negative attitude that we Christians always exhibit in every sphere of life.
Let us always take blame for whatever mistakes we may have exhibited or committed, just like the thief who was crucified with our Lord Jesus Christ,who admitted that his punishment was his own fault and asks our Lord for mercy, Jesus Christ said to him "today you will be with me in paradise" he makes heaven not because he was not a thief but because he admitted his fault and asked God for mercy.
We should always remember that we are not in a position to judge others. We are ourselves as guilty as charge .
Let us always humble ourselves just like the tax collector. He asks God for mercy. Let us always immersed ourselves in the ocean God's mercy. Instead of being proud.
May God help us all in Jesus Christ name. Amen
Atori Jacinta
My Reflection
The First reading tells us about the just nature of God as a Judge. His judgment is not affected by our position, whether poor or wealthy, but by our deeds. As it says, "He will accept those whose service is pleasing to God." We are called to stay right with God, serving Him in spirit and truth.
The Psalmist further tells us of the goodness of God and how, in His just way, He will always hear us and come through for us.
The Second reading gives us a deeper understanding that being lowly, poor, oppressed, or a widow is not just applicable to physical suffering but also to our hunger and thirst for God in our walk with Him and in our relationship with God. Those who put their trust in Him shall not be condemned. As St. Paul said, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the Faith. From now on, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the righteous Judge will award to me on that day."
We must walk fervently with God, not just in our lowly state but also when we have abundance. We must learn to trust God and not ourselves or man and stay humble, as the Gospel has taught us. We pray that God gives us the grace to walk with Him and not just work for Him, to trust Him always, and remain humble.
Ugochukwu Anyanwu
To b Christain no be beans
Dis Elder brother Paul talk na heavy challenge to me o
E be like long chain wey heavy and e come dey round my neck.
D kweshon wey e dey ask me na say
1. U get d liver to stand and face d wahala say u be Christian?
2. shey u fit beat ur chest say u don do am as u suppose?
3. yur faith strong reach to bliv say God no go disappoint?
If my ansa to d kweshons na YES, e mean say d final statement of Elder broda Paul na for me. Y bcos, as I don bliv wit strong faith, Baba God go save me. Ihm gonsave me from bad belle dem, come save me to get enter enjoyment for heaven.
My broda, my sista… dis race no easy
You Are Praying to Yourself If all you do is count what you do for God instead of Acknowledging What God has done for you
Stop trying to pay for what Jesus already paid, come with humble gratitude and receive instead.
A lady walked into the supermarket without knowing her dad also was shopping and she got all she wanted but the dad being a friend of the manager already alerted him to bill everything she bought on his credit card.
Now imagine the lady insisting on paying after being told her Dad already paid.
That’s the true confusion of the Christian who doesn't know what Christ did on the cross.
Now imagine that tax collector, he just didn't try to pay but humbly pleaded for his share of the cake.
Humility, Gratitude and Repentance is key to prayers.... If you are not doing these in prayers... Sorry it's not prayers to God but to self.
Before God submission is an act of Worship, Repentance is Gratitude and Thanksgiving is Power.
