19th Sunday Ordinary Time August 10, 2025

Readings: Wis 18, 6-9; Heb 11, 1-2.8-19; Lk 12, 35-40

The concept of “God’s elect or God’s people” is very strong among the Jews. Biblically speaking, this is right. However, the coming of Christ broadened the scope of this concept to the baptized in Christ. This is because “Baptism makes one a new creature, an adopted son of God, and a partaker in the divine nature” (CCC 1265). According to Pope Francis, “God does not belong to any particular people because His mercy wills everyone saved.”

Therefore, on this 19th Sunday, the Church reminds us of our heritage as the people of God. She also reminds us of our firm root in Christ. As God’s people, we worship an awesome and caring God. Therefore, we dare to look forward to a glorious future in our Father’s kingdom.

Today’s first reading points out the nature of the covenant that establishes our citizenship as God’s people. This covenant is divine and firm. Therefore, the church admonishes us to be joyful and courageous because the foundation of our citizenship is solid. This covenant enables us to share in the blessings and heritage of God our father.

Today, the psalmist exalts us: “Happy the people the Lord has chosen as his own.” In order words, our God has extended his hands to all of us through Christ. Unfortunately, many of us have failed to realize our exalted position as God’s people. This failure has resulted in so many setbacks in our lives. This is why the church today reminds us of our rightful place before God. She encourages us to appreciate and take full advantage of this position.

This life is a life of watchfulness! Watchfulness here simply means being conscious of who we are. It means cherishing and safeguarding our heritage. The mark of this life is our faith! It is only through it that we can be that: “Happy people that the Lord has chosen as his own.”

Fr. Terry                                  ‘HAPPY FEAST OF OUR PARISH PATRON SAINT ST. DOMINIC’