St. Andrew kim Tae-gon, priest & martyr,

St. Paul Chong Ha-sang.martyr & Companions 

＊＊＊ 1st Reading ＊＊＊

 1 Timothy 6: 2c-12

 Those whose masters are Christians should not show less respect under the pretext that they are members of the church.

On the contrary, they must give a better service since they are doing good works on behalf of believers and dear friends.Teach and stress these things.  Who­ever teaches in some other way, not following the sound teaching of our Lord Christ Jesus and true religious instruction,  is conceited and understands nothing.

This one is crazy about controversies and discussions that result in envy, insults,  blows and constant arguments between people of depraved minds and far from the truth. For them, religion is merely for financial gain.In reality, religion is a treasure if we are content with what we have.  We brought nothing into the world and we will leave it with nothing.  Let us then be content with having food and clothing.

 Those who strive to be rich fall into temptations and traps. A lot of foolish and harmful ambitions plunge them into ruin and destruction.  Indeed, the love of money is the root of every evil. Because of this greed, some have wandered away from the faith, bringing on themselves afflictions of every kind.

But you, man of God, shun all this. Strive to be holy and godly. Live in faith and love, with endurance and gentleness.  Fight the good fight of faith and win everlasting life to which you were called when you made the good profession of faith in the presence of so many witnesses.

 

＊＊＊＊ Gospel ＊＊＊＊

Luke 8: 1-3

 Jesus walked through towns and countryside, preaching and giving the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve followed him,  and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and diseases: Mary called Magdalene, who had been freed of seven demons;  Joanna, wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward; Suzanna and others who provided for them out of their own funds.

 

Gospel Reflection：

“SOME WOMEN FOLLOWED HIM.”

The gospel passage today might seem to project a diminution of Jesus’ women followers, being possessed by evil spirits and being freed from demons. But the gospel writer does not intend it that way; he is simply saying that among those who were healed, responded generously, and followed Jesus were women (Brendan Byrne). The passage need not be construed as portraying women with secondary or inferior roles to men.

Since the early Christian Church women have played an important role and have significantly impacted the proclamation of the good news. Some even assumed leadership roles. Their role was not limited to domestic services, such as cooking, washing, mending, etc. (Byrne). Nowadays, we are witness to the ever-growing involvement and invaluable contribution of lay women in different areas of Church ministry.

And in some areas, they are leading the way. The giftedness of women is a vital element in bringing forward the work of the Church in our modern world. The need for their active participation may not be felt in some quarters, but it is a fact that women’s giftedness has already substantially impacted the evangelizing work of the Church and proven itself worthy of the task. Women’s active participation calls for recognition and more encouragement.