First reading 1 Timothy 6:2-12
We brought nothing into the world and can take nothing out of it
This is what you are to teach the brothers to believe and persuade them to do. Anyone who teaches anything different, and does not keep to the sound teaching which is that of our Lord Jesus Christ, the doctrine which is in accordance with true religion, is simply ignorant and must be full of self-conceit – with a craze for questioning everything and arguing about words. All that can come of this is jealousy, contention, abuse and wicked mistrust of one another; and unending disputes by people who are neither rational nor informed and imagine that religion is a way of making a profit. Religion, of course, does bring large profits, but only to those who are content with what they have. We brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it; but as long as we have food and clothing, let us be content with that. People who long to be rich are a prey to temptation; they get trapped into all sorts of foolish and dangerous ambitions which eventually plunge them into ruin and destruction. ‘The love of money is the root of all evils’ and there are some who, pursuing it, have wandered away from the faith, and so given their souls any number of fatal wounds.
But, as a man dedicated to God, you must avoid all that. You must aim to be saintly and religious, filled with faith and love, patient and gentle. Fight the good fight of the faith and win for yourself the eternal life to which you were called when you made your profession and spoke up for the truth in front of many witnesses.
Responsorial Psalm 48(49):6-10,17-20
How happy are the poor in spirit: theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Why should I fear in evil days
the malice of the foes who surround me,
men who trust in their wealth,
and boast of the vastness of their riches?
For no man can buy his own ransom,
or pay a price to God for his life.
The ransom of his soul is beyond him.
He cannot buy life without end,
nor avoid coming to the grave.
Then do not fear when a man grows rich,
when the glory of his house increases.
He takes nothing with him when he dies,
his glory does not follow him below.
Though he flattered himself while he lived:
‘Men will praise me for all my success,’
yet he will go to join his fathers,
who will never see the light any more.
Gospel Luke 8:1-3
The women who accompanied Jesus
Jesus made his way through towns and villages preaching, and proclaiming the Good News of the kingdom of God. With him went the Twelve, as well as certain women who had been cured of evil spirits and ailments: Mary surnamed the Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, Joanna the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, Susanna, and several others who provided for them out of their own resources.
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Women disciples of Jesus
In today’s gospel, St Luke the evangelist introduces us to the faithful travelling companions of Jesus, highlighting the presence of women alongside the male disciples. These women, filled with courage and conviction, left behind the familiar comforts of their homes — a bold choice in a society where women had limited rights and freedoms. By stepping into the unknown to follow Jesus on His journey, they defied societal expectations. Jesus, in turn, embraced these women with respect and admiration, recognising their vital role in spreading the Good News.
Throughout history, many extraordinary Christian women have exemplified unwavering faith and dedication on their path of discipleship. They have embodied resilience and love in their service to Jesus. Notable figures include St Teresa of Calcutta, St Mary MacKillop, and St Teresa of Avila, among others. We also remember the ordinary women in our lives — our grandmothers, mothers, aunts, religious and mentors — who lived their faith in practical, yet impactful ways, often unnoticed. Their stories inspire us to deepen our commitment and to follow the call of Jesus with renewed passion and determination.
Reflective question:
How can I emulate the faith and courage of the dedicated women who followed Jesus to the end?
Acknowledgment: Reflections are based on “Prayer for Living: The Word of God for Daily Prayer Year C” by Sr Maria Jose FMVD.
