28th Sunday of Ordinary Time

For a long time, the world has misconstrued freedom as the right to choose. However, this world — which advocates for the liberty to do as we please—is witnessing a continuous rise in depression, anxiety, and suicide rates. So, why has it become so easy to celebrate creation while neglecting the source and Creator?

The Lord invites us to partake in the grand wedding feast awaiting us in heaven. He desires to remove "the veil that veils all peoples," the barrier preventing us from surrendering our hearts to Him; the barrier that enslaves us and hinders our freedom. As Saint Paul points out, we understand what it means to go hungry and yearn for more than the worldly things that fail to satisfy us. Yet, the God of abundance invites us to dwell in an abundant feast and fulfill our need for Him.

Furthermore, the Gospel encourages us not only to surrender ourselves but also to extend invitations to others for the abundant wedding feast. We are called to recognize those consumed by the despair of sin and invite them to a "feast of rich food and choice wines," a celebration of freedom where we allow ourselves to be loved by the Bridegroom.

In summary, the world has often misunderstood freedom as mere choice, yet it has led to rising levels of depression, anxiety, and suicide. The Lord invites us to a heavenly feast, aiming to remove the barriers that keep us from Him. Let us take this invitation to heart, not only for ourselves but also by reaching out to those in need, and together, embrace the true freedom found in God's love.

What does preparing for the marriage banquet mean to you?

Will you remove your garments of sorrow (worldly pursuits) and don the garments of joy and salvation (surrender to the Bridegroom)?

What do you need to surrender to the One who desires to set you free?