Year B - Thursday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time

In Catholic Lectionary Today's readings:

• 📖 First reading: Ephesians 6:10-20
• 📖 Gospel: Luke 13:31-35 🌾🕊️

In the first reading from Ephesians, Paul urges the believers to "put on the armor of God" as they face spiritual battles. 🛡️ This armor includes truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the word of God—essential tools for standing firm against the powers of evil. Paul reminds us that our struggle is not merely with human challenges but with spiritual forces that require reliance on God's mighty power. 🌟 This passage encourages us to trust in God’s strength, to pray constantly, and to be ever-watchful in our spiritual lives, equipped with faith and perseverance. ✝️

In the Gospel, Jesus remains resolute in His mission despite the threat from Herod. 🌿 He refuses to be deterred, knowing that His purpose is not yet complete. Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem reveals His deep sorrow for the city’s rejection of God’s prophets and His longing to gather its people together in safety and love, like a hen gathering her brood. 🕊️ His determination to continue on His path toward Jerusalem, even in the face of danger, shows His unwavering commitment to God's plan for salvation. 💖

These readings together call us to take up the spiritual tools God provides, trusting in His strength to face the challenges of life. We are encouraged to follow Jesus' example of courage and persistence in fulfilling God’s will, knowing that His love and protection are with us even in the face of opposition. 🌟

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