Loyola Reflections

“Oh Woman! How Great Is Your Faith!” - Today’s passage from the beginning of Luke 8 is another singular Lukan passage and very much reflects the unique aspect of women in Luke’s gospel account.

Today’s Memorial is clearly linked with The Exaltation of the Cross which we celebrated yesterday. It seems that the Church is suggesting that there are certain things in life that can only be revealed and learnt through sorrow and suffering.

“When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself, says the Lord.”—John 12:32 I have been on my own retreat this week.  My spiritual director here encouraged me to “pal around with Jesus for the week.”  I share my musings with you. 

“I Say to You, Arise” - The story of the woman who has come to be known to us as the Widow of Nain, is one of several wonderful stories found only in Luke’s gospel account. We as the Church are deeply indebted to St. Luke for preserving these beloved memories of Christ’s ministry.

“Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof” (Luke 7:6b) - The new translation that the assembly prays after: “Behold the Lamb of God…,” is “Lord I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.” This is almost a verbatim quote from the Roman Centurion who was a major donor to the Jewish synagogue in Capernaum where he was living.