Wednesday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time. Year II (Our Lady of the Holy Rosary). Gal.2:1-2,7-14; Luke 11:1-4
Today, Paul tells the Galatians how his mission of taking the good news to the Gentiles was recognised and approved by Church leaders like James, Peter and John, at the time. What Paul could not understand however, was why Peter would let his behaviour be influenced by hypocrites. Respect for authority does not mean refraining from speaking the truth to them as politely as possible if and when the need arises. So Paul resists this negative influence, and corrects Peter to his face.
In the gospel reading, the disciples of Jesus, having just witnessed him in prayer, said, “Lord teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” Again we see influence at work here. But this was positive influence. The disciples were so moved because of the example of their master, and because John had taught his own disciples to pray, that they asked Jesus to teach them to pray. Jesus gave them the ‘Our Father’, which is a prayer in itself, and at the same time, a format on how to pray.
Speaking of prayer, today, the Church celebrates the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. The feast day takes place in honour of a 16th century naval victory which secured Europe against Turkish invasion at the ‘Battle of Lepanto’. Pope St. Pius V attributed the victory to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who was invoked on the day of the battle through a campaign to pray the Rosary throughout Europe. As October devotion continues, may we not forget to take up our rosaries in constant spiritual battle against all evil forces besieging our country Nigeria, especially as election draws near. May our Lady’s intercession protect our hearts and minds from all forms of negative influences, Amen.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, as a new day begins, we your children continue to offer you praise and thanksgiving for the gift of life. May our constant devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary bring the world under her holy maternal influence, through Christ our Lord, Amen.
God bless your day ahead. Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, pray for us!
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