In today’s Liturgy of the Word, we witness a poignant moment in salvation history — the conclusion of Moses’ earthly pilgrimage. In the first reading from Deuteronomy, Moses ascends Mount Nebo, gazes upon the Promised Land, and beholds the fulfilment of a promise he will not personally enter. His decades of faithful leadership, desert wanderings, and intimate encounters with God culminate not in possession, but in vision. His life stands as a testament to steadfast devotion, humble obedience, and trust in God’s will — even when God’s plan unfolds beyond our personal reach.
Moses’ death marks the passing of a great leader, yet it also signals the unbroken thread of God’s providence. Joshua, filled with the spirit of wisdom, is commissioned to lead Israel into the long-awaited promise. Moses’ legacy endures not in territory claimed, but in a life lived face-to-face with God, marked by signs and wonders that no other prophet would equal.
In today’s Gospel (Matthew 18:15–20), Jesus offers His disciples a blueprint for reconciliation and unity. His counsel — to seek dialogue, humility, and forgiveness when wrongs occur — reminds us that the health of the Christian community rests on mercy and mutual understanding. The Lord’s assurance that “where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in their midst” is both a comfort and a call: our communal life, when rooted in His name, is blessed with His very presence.
Together, these readings teach us that leadership in faith is not measured solely by arrival at a destination, but by fidelity to God’s presence along the way. Moses reminds us to persevere with humility and to trust God even when the full picture eludes us, for His ways surpass our ways, because our ultimate destination is beyond the grave and to be with Him in Paradise!
Saint Francis of Assisi, our founder, embodied this same trust. Renouncing worldly wealth, he embraced poverty, simplicity, and love for all creation, confident that God’s providence would never fail him. His life illustrates that authentic leadership springs from humility, service, and unwavering reliance on the Lord.
As we honour Moses today, let us also recommit ourselves to the pilgrim way — trusting in God’s promises, leading with humility, and serving with love. And with Saint Francis as our guide, may we live simply, love deeply, and recognise the Lord’s presence both within us and among us.
Our Lady, Queen of Pilgrims, pray for us who journey toward your Son. Amen.
Add comment
Comments