October 11/12 - Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time

From Mass - Saturday October 11 Luke 11:27-28 Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it (Luke 11:28). Jesus had just cast out a demon that was mute, freeing its victim to finally speak. Understandably, “the crowds were amazed” (Luke 11:14). This striking miracle led to a dispute about the source of Jesus's power: did it come from “Beelzebul, the prince of demons” or from the very “finger of God” (11:15, 20)? As Jesus was answering, a woman in the crowd tried to defend Him from his accusers. “Blessed is the womb that carried You,” she cried out, “and the breasts at which You nursed” (11:27). How dare anyone presume that Jesus was in league with the devil? “Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it,” Jesus answered (Luke 11:28). Many scholars believe that this word “rather” doesn't mean “on the contrary.” Instead, it means, “not only that but... of course Mary, who bore Jesus and nursed Him, was blessed. And not only her, but everyone who follows her example of hearing and keeping God's word. Isn't that amazing? Not only Mary, but you, too, are blessed as you strive to listen to the Lord and keep His word! You are blessed right along her when you humbly pray, “May it be done to me according to Your word” (Luke 1:38). You join the company of saints and angels in heaven every time you say no to temptation and yes to Jesus. Francis of Assisi, Theresa of Lisieux, Augustine, Mother Teresa, and all the rest rejoice. So does Mary, your mother! But what's even more amazing is that your yes to God, offered with faith and acceptance, is no less valuable in God's eyes in the yes offered by every saint. It’s no less valuable than Mary's own yes to the angel. That’s how much He loves you. “Lord, help me to stay focused on listening to Your word and keeping it with all my heart!” Joel 4:12-21 Psalm 97:1-2, 5 - 6, 11-12 From "The Word Among Us"