In today’s first reading, we heard about the encounter between Paul
and the man who was crippled. Recognizing that the man had faith to be
healed, Paul was able to cure him. When the people saw what Paul had
done, they were amazed and immediately thought that Paul and Barnabas
must be gods in human form. Paul and Barnabas quickly urged the people
to set aside all thoughts of them as gods, and Paul began to teach
them about the living God who created all things.
The practice of idolatry continues to this day and remains a
fundamental obstacle to be overcome in our spiritual lives and in
furthering God’s kingdom. But in each age, new idols arise. Many
people today turn to science for answers to questions about the
origins and nature of life. Others have adopted the idea that right or
wrong is determined solely by what feels good. This way of living
makes an idol of oneself as people seek happiness through self-
satisfaction, self-indulgence and being guided only by one’s personal
beliefs. The problem with any idol is that it never delivers what it
promises. Instead of bringing happiness, such idols lead to emptiness
and possible self-destruction, while preventing us from getting closer
to God.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us that we show our love for him by
practicing his teachings in our daily lives. This is not only a sign
of our love for Jesus but it also provides a needed witness in the
world where far too many continue to serve idols.
Let our lives glorify God that others may also come to faith through
the example of our Christian living, turn away from empty idols and
place their trust and hope in the one true God.