September 03, 2025 Wednesday of the Twenty-second Week in Ordinary Time
Memorial of Saint Gregory the Great, Pope and Doctor of the Church
Daily Readings: Colossians 1:1-8; Luke 4:38-44
St. Paul’s Letter to the Colossians, often classified among the Deutero-Pauline and Captivity Letters, was likely written to address false teachings that had begun to infiltrate the church at Colossae. These threats stemmed from a blend of Jewish legalism and Greek philosophical influences, which risked distorting the simplicity of the Gospel. The author, most probably a close associate of Paul, writes to encourage and strengthen the believers in their faith. He greets them as “saints and faithful brothers and sisters,” commending their faith, love, and hope, and imparting to them grace and peace.
Paul highlights the ministry of Epaphras, his trusted co-worker and “faithful minister of Christ” (Colossians 1:7), whose fervent prayers sustain the community. Prayer itself stands as a central theme in this letter. Paul and his companions constantly lift up grateful prayers to God, whom he reverently calls “the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Colossians 1:3), emphasizing that every mission begins and thrives in prayer.
The Gospel passage complements this theme of faith in action. Jesus heals Simon Peter’s mother-in-law, cures many afflicted with sickness, and casts out demons. Remarkably, even demons recognize Him as the Son of God. Yet, Jesus not only heals; He rebukes illness and evil alike, His word carries a commanding power that liberates and restores. Amid the busyness of His ministry, Jesus retreats to pray, remaining in constant communion with the Father. This prayerful intimacy fuels His mission, which must extend “to other towns also” until the whole world hears the Good News.
For us, the lesson is clear: we are not spectators but partners in Christ’s mission. Like Paul, Epaphras, and Jesus Himself, we are called to ground our lives in prayer, confront all forms of evil with faith, and carry the Gospel urgently to those who have yet to encounter its saving power. The mission is not optional; it is essential, and it continues through us.
Call to Action: God’s love for the human race is revealed in Jesus’ ministry. My life must reflect His love for humanity
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
Latest News
