Untitled EpTuesday 30 September 2025 – Saint Jerome, Priest & Doctor of the Churchisode

Tuesday 30 September 2025 – Saint Jerome, Priest & Doctor of the Church

•First Reading: Zechariah 8:20-23.

•Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 86(87) – God is with us.

•Gospel: Luke 9:51-56.

Introduction.

Today we honour Saint Jerome, who loved and translated the Scriptures so that God’s Word could nourish the whole Church. The readings remind us that God’s plan embraces all nations and that discipleship means following Jesus with a heart like His, even when rejected.
Main Point (Summary)
True disciples follow Jesus with a steadfast heart, showing mercy rather than revenge, so that others may be drawn to God’s Word and presence. (Zechariah 8:23; Luke 9:55)

Homily / Reflection.
In the First Reading (Zech 8:20-23), we see a beautiful vision: people from many nations grasping the sleeve of a Jew saying, “We want to go with you, since we have learnt that God is with you.” God’s plan is inclusive; His Word attracts hearts when it is lived with integrity.

In the Gospel (Luke 9:51-56), Jesus sets His face for Jerusalem He is resolute, knowing suffering awaits. Yet when a Samaritan village rejects Him, He rebukes the disciples’ desire for vengeance. Unlike Elijah, He does not call down fire but keeps moving forward in mercy.

This is the heart of discipleship: staying focused on God’s mission and responding with patience and compassion even when we are misunderstood or rejected.

Concrete Example:
•At work, in the parish, or even within our family, we may experience misunderstanding. Instead of “calling down fire” with harsh words or resentment, we can choose silence, prayer, or a gentle response.
•In social media debates, rather than retaliating, we can post something constructive or simply disengage and pray.
Way Forward (Living the Point)
1.Fix your gaze on Christ each morning. Like Jesus heading to Jerusalem, begin your day by offering it to God, asking for strength to stay on mission.
2.Respond to rejection with mercy. Before reacting, pause and say a quick prayer: “Lord, give me your heart.”
3.Share God’s Word in action. Let your daily conduct make people “grab your sleeve” because they see God’s presence in you.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, you set your face toward Jerusalem with courage and mercy. Teach me to follow you with a steadfast heart, to forgive when rejected, and to live your Word so that others may see God is with me. Amen.