A WORD FOR TODAY 13 SEPTEMBER 2023

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*A WORD FOR TODAY*

*SET YOUR MIND ON THE THINGS ABOVE*

_"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."(Colossians 3:1-2)_

_*The kind of life expected of those who truly follow Christ is one that is different from what the world offers to those who live according to its standard.*_

_God's standard is different from the standard of men. It is also expedient for us to know that when we follow the world standard, it will be difficult for us to do what will please God._

_*St. Paul reminds us in the first reading as children of the risen Lord to seek the things that are above, that is in heaven, where Christ is. We must set our minds on the things above and not on the things on earth.*_

_This is necessary and important, because that is where the real treasure lies. We are here on earth to work for heaven and if you have this in mind you will not let the material things of this life hold you down._

_*When your mind is set on the things above, you are truly blessed, because even though you may lack everything here and sometimes suffer for the sake of Christ, you will be greatly rewarded in heaven.*_

_Jesus tells us in the gospel reading that we may be poor, hungry, weep and be hated by people on his account here on earth, but we must rejoice and be glad, because we are richly blessed, because a greater reward awaits us in heaven._

_*This is the best blessing and that we must always seek to posses. We must seek God first and His kingdom and everyother thing shall be added. Aim for heaven and you will have everything in abundance in the end.*_

_Today we celebrate the memorial of St. John Chrystostom. He was born in Antioch. After a thorough education, he took up the ascetic life. He was ordained to the priesthood, and became a fruitful and effective preacher. His sermons and writings did much to explain the Catholic faith and to encourage the living of the Christian life: his eloquence earned him the surname “Chrystostom” (the Greek for “golden mouth”)._

_*Good morning dearest one. Smile😊as you do your work and do have a beautiful day. May Jesus give you the grace to set your mind on the things above. Amen. And may the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.*_

*Meditation:* Colossians 3:1-11/Psalm 145:2-3,10-13/Luke 6:20-26

*Watch-Word:* How good is the Lord to all

_*There is a better reward for us in heaven. Therefore, keep doing your best to get there*_

(Wednesday of the twenty third week in ordinary time. Memorial of St. John Chrystostom)

*©ï¸ Rev. Fr. Augustine Eleke*