21st Week in Ord. Time, Monday – 28thAugust 2023 – 1 Thess 1,1-5.8-10; Gospel: Mt 23,13-22
Triad of Virtues in Practice
The first reading is from St.Paul’s first letter to the faith community of the Thessalonians. He praises God for their response to his preaching and their acceptance of God’s gifts. He expresses his satisfaction that the three gifts of faith, hope, and love, known as the “theological virtues” are at work in the Thessalonian community. Paul is pleased about how well the believers have embraced not only his teachings, but the practice of their new-found faith. He appreciates them for having turned from their false worship of idols to the worship of the one, true God. He continues to edify the faithful and encourages them to advance in their faith, love and hope based upon Jesus’ eventual return, even though He has not yet fully returned as He will at the end of time. Faith makes all things possible, Hope makes all things work and Love makes all things beautiful.
