Rekindling Our First Love

Have you ever found yourself drifting from a passion or relationship that once held great meaning? Today’s readings invite us to rediscover and renew our devotion to God, just as we would rekindle the spark in any treasured relationship. Each passage—Revelation, Psalm 1, and Luke’s Gospel—draws us toward a central theme of rekindling a sincere love for God, a love that brings clarity, healing, and true spiritual fruitfulness.

In Revelation, the Church in Ephesus receives a sobering message: though their faith is strong, their love has grown cold. Historically, the church in Ephesus was a hub of early Christian life, vibrant with faith and charity. Yet, by the time John wrote these words, they had become so focused on doctrinal vigilance that they lost sight of their “first love”—their initial passion for Christ. The imagery of “lampstands” in this passage reflects the role of the church as a beacon of light in the world, yet a light that risks dimming without love as its source. Christ’s message is clear: Return to the love you had at first.

The Responsorial Psalm beautifully contrasts two ways of life: one rooted by “streams of water,” flourishing with purpose, and the other withering like chaff blown away by the wind. This ancient poetic image of the righteous planted by the waters reminds us that spiritual vitality is found in staying close to God’s law and love. To delight in God’s law, as the psalmist describes, is to actively choose His way each day, a choice that leads to true happiness and stability.

In Luke’s Gospel, the blind beggar at Jericho captures the essence of a heart fervently seeking Christ. Despite opposition from those who attempt to silence him, the man’s persistent cries to Jesus reveal a faith that refuses to be quenched. His plea—“Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”—not only brings him physical sight but restores his life in God’s presence. This encounter reminds us that when we approach Jesus with humble, earnest hearts, we receive the grace to “see” clearly again, to return to the path of love.

Today’s readings challenge us to reflect: Have I kept my heart close to God, or has my love grown lukewarm over time? Through these passages, we are invited to examine our faith, to rekindle our love for God, and to see how our lives may flourish when we return wholeheartedly to our first love in Him.

First Reading – Revelation 1:1-4; 2:1-5

The Call to Repentance

The Book of Revelation, written by St. John, is a prophetic and apocalyptic text. It contains a series of visions revealing divine mysteries, encouragement, and warnings for the early Christian churches. Today’s reading focuses on the message to the church in Ephesus, an early Christian community known for its dedication and doctrinal purity. Ephesus was a large, influential city in Asia Minor, a hub of commerce and pagan worship, which made maintaining Christian faith a particular challenge for the community.

The message to the Ephesians addresses a common struggle: they remain faithful in doctrine and perseverance, yet they have “abandoned the love” they once had. This reading urges a return to genuine, heartfelt devotion to Christ—a theme that reminds us to assess our own hearts and rekindle our spiritual fervor.

Revelation 1:1-4; 2:1-5
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

Introduction and Salutation
1 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place; he made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, ² who testified to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw.
³ Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of the prophecy, and blessed are those who hear and who keep what is written in it; for the time is near.
⁴ John to the seven churches that are in Asia:
Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne,

The Message to Ephesus
2 “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands:
² “I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance. I know that you cannot tolerate evildoers; you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them to be false. ³ I also know that you are enduring patiently and bearing up for the sake of my name, and that you have not grown weary. ⁴ But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. ⁵ Remember then from what you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.

Verse-by-Verse Exegesis

Verse 1: “The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place; he made it known by sending his angel to his servant John.”
This opening verse sets the divine authority of the vision St. John receives. The revelation is not merely a personal insight but a message from God through Jesus, conveyed by an angel to John for the Church’s benefit. This emphasizes that the truths within are of the utmost spiritual significance.

Verse 2: “[John] testified to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw.”
John emphasizes his fidelity as a witness to both the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. This verse establishes John’s credibility and reminds readers that what follows is a faithful account of what has been revealed to him.

Verse 3: “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of the prophecy, and blessed are those who hear and who keep what is written in it; for the time is near.”
Here, John pronounces a blessing on those who read, hear, and keep these words, signaling the urgency of the message. In Catholic tradition, this “keeping” extends beyond mere knowledge to living out the teachings, aligning with James 1:22’s call to “be doers of the word, and not hearers only.”

Verse 4: “John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne.”
The “seven churches” represent both specific early Christian communities and a symbolic fullness in biblical language, signifying the universal Church. John’s greeting invokes the eternal presence of God, linking the message to divine authority.

Verse 2:2-3: “I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance. I know that you cannot tolerate evildoers; you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them to be false. I also know that you are enduring patiently and bearing up for the sake of my name, and that you have not grown weary.”
This commendation acknowledges the Ephesians’ perseverance, doctrinal purity, and discernment. They have endured trials and resisted false teachings, highlighting the virtues of vigilance and resilience. The Church calls for doctrinal vigilance in Catechism 2088, encouraging us to avoid errors and defend faith.

Verse 4: “But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first.”
Despite their strengths, the Ephesians are rebuked for losing their original zeal and fervor. This love, likely for both God and neighbor, has waned, and Christ’s words reveal the spiritual danger of a faith that grows cold. The Church teaches that love is foundational to all virtue (CCC 1822), and without it, our faith risks becoming a lifeless formality.

Verse 5: “Remember then from what you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.”
Christ’s call to “remember” and “repent” underscores that returning to genuine love requires intentional reflection and a change of heart. If they do not repent, they risk losing their “lampstand”—a vivid image symbolizing the light of their witness in the world. This serves as a warning to all believers about the consequences of spiritual complacency.

Teachings and References

• Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1822-1829) discusses the virtue of charity, noting that love is the “form” of all virtues. Without love, even the most impressive deeds are spiritually barren.
• St. Augustine writes in his Confessions about returning to the love of God after recognizing his own spiritual shortcomings, a process he describes as an awakening of the heart.
• Historically, the Ephesus community would have been exposed to various challenges, including pagan practices and false teachers. Their struggle to maintain zeal in such an environment would resonate with early Christians striving to uphold the faith in challenging times.

Reflection and Application

The message to the Ephesians invites us to examine our own faith. Have we allowed our relationship with God to grow routine or cold? The call to “remember” and “repent” reminds us that rekindling our love for God is not a passive process but a conscious choice.

Practical Steps for Reflection:

1. Daily Prayer – Start each day with a moment to rekindle your love for God. Prayer brings us back into His presence and renews our relationship.
2. Examine Your Priorities – Reflect on whether your life’s priorities are aligned with a genuine love for God. Are there areas where spiritual fervor has given way to complacency?
3. Serve with Joy – Consider ways you can renew your joy in serving others, an outward expression of love for God and neighbor.

How can you renew your “first love” for God in practical ways today? Remember, returning to our original zeal in faith doesn’t happen all at once but begins with small, intentional acts that realign our hearts toward God.

Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 1:1-4, 6

Flourishing in God’s Law
Psalm 1 serves as an opening to the entire Book of Psalms, setting a foundational tone for the prayers and praises that follow. This psalm introduces a recurring biblical theme—the choice between two paths: the way of righteousness and the way of wickedness. In ancient Israel, the law of the Lord represented more than commandments; it was God’s revealed wisdom, intended to guide His people toward life, holiness, and communion with Him. By meditating on God’s law, the faithful root themselves in His presence, like “trees planted by streams of water.” This psalm aligns perfectly with today’s readings by emphasizing the importance of a life deeply connected to God, which bears lasting fruit.

Psalm 1:1-4, 6
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

The Two Ways
¹ Happy are those
    who do not follow the advice of the wicked,
or take the path that sinners tread,
    or sit in the seat of scoffers;
² but their delight is in the law of the Lord,
    and on his law they meditate day and night.
³ They are like trees
    planted by streams of water,
which yield their fruit in its season,
    and their leaves do not wither.
In all that they do, they prosper.
⁴ The wicked are not so,
    but are like chaff that the wind drives away.
⁶ for the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
    but the way of the wicked will perish.

Verse-by-Verse Exegesis

Verse 1: “Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit in the seat of scoffers.”
This verse introduces the concept of happiness or blessedness in biblical terms, grounded not in temporary pleasure but in avoiding the influence of the wicked. The phrase “follow the advice of the wicked” speaks to the importance of surrounding oneself with influences that encourage holiness. The progression from “follow” to “take the path” and “sit in the seat” suggests a gradual entrenchment in sinful ways, showing that spiritual decline often begins subtly before taking hold.

Verse 2: “But their delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law they meditate day and night.”
In contrast to those who follow sinful ways, the righteous find joy in God’s law, meditating on it constantly. This “meditation” involves more than thought—it implies a deep, continuous engagement with God’s wisdom. St. Jerome observed that to “meditate on the law” is to fill one’s heart and mind with the divine Word, allowing it to shape actions and thoughts.

Verse 3: “They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither. In all that they do, they prosper.”
The imagery of a tree by flowing waters reflects a life of sustained growth and nourishment, with God as the source. The phrase “yield their fruit in its season” suggests that those grounded in God’s law produce virtues and blessings that nourish both themselves and others. The Church teaches that living according to God’s will brings spiritual fruitfulness (CCC 736), rooted in the Spirit who enables us to thrive in faith and charity.

Verse 4: “The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away.”
Chaff, the husk of grain that is easily blown away, symbolizes the transient, unstable life of those who reject God’s way. Unlike the firmly rooted tree, the wicked lack any lasting substance or foundation. This stark contrast illustrates the emptiness of a life lived apart from God, where actions ultimately dissipate without meaning or purpose.

Verse 6: “For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.”
This concluding verse reassures that God actively cares for and protects the righteous, a theme that echoes throughout the Psalms. God’s “watching” signifies His intimate knowledge and loving guidance for those who follow Him, whereas the wicked, in choosing to reject God, ultimately face destruction. This reinforces the certainty of divine justice, which promises lasting peace for those who choose righteousness.

Teachings and References

• Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 736) explains that those led by the Spirit “bear the fruit of the Spirit,” a concept that aligns with the imagery of the tree that prospers through divine sustenance.
• St. Thomas Aquinas wrote on the importance of meditating on God’s law, noting that it brings the soul into harmony with divine wisdom. Aquinas saw the law of God as the ultimate guide for ordering one’s life.
• In Church history, early Christian communities often recited and meditated on the Psalms as part of their daily prayer, seeing them as both praise and guidance for living a life directed toward God.

Reflection and Application

Psalm 1 encourages us to examine the “path” we are walking. Are we seeking to root ourselves in God’s Word, or do we allow ourselves to be influenced by distractions and sinful habits? This Psalm reminds us that happiness is found in aligning our lives with God’s wisdom, letting Him “plant” us where we can grow and flourish.

Practical Steps for Reflection:

1. Dedicate Time for Scripture – Start a habit of reading and reflecting on a short Scripture passage each day. This can be as simple as a few minutes each morning, allowing God’s Word to ground your thoughts.
2. Choose Positive Influences – Evaluate the people and media that influence you. Are they guiding you toward a life that honors God? Seek relationships and resources that encourage holiness.
3. Reflect on Bearing Fruit – Consider how your actions bring life to others. Are you producing “fruit” that reflects your faith in Christ, such as kindness, patience, or generosity?

How can you plant yourself closer to “streams of water” today, ensuring that your life will bear fruit in God’s time? Just as a tree’s leaves “do not wither” when it is well-rooted, so too will our lives remain steady and full when we draw from God’s sustaining presence.

Holy Gospel – Luke 18:35-43

A Faith that Heals

This passage from Luke’s Gospel describes Jesus healing a blind beggar near Jericho. Jericho was an ancient city with deep historical significance, and its mention here hints at the spiritual journey Jesus is undertaking toward Jerusalem, where He will fulfill His mission. In biblical times, physical blindness often symbolized spiritual blindness, while the poor and marginalized were seen as those most open to receiving God’s mercy.

This healing story echoes today’s theme of returning to a true, heartfelt love for God. The blind beggar’s relentless cry to Jesus and his declaration of faith demonstrate a deep yearning for divine mercy, while Jesus’ response reveals the transformative power of faith. Through this encounter, we are reminded that recognizing our need for God is the first step toward spiritual renewal.

Luke 18:35-43
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar Near Jericho
³⁵ As he approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. ³⁶ When he heard a crowd going by, he asked what was happening. ³⁷ They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” ³⁸ Then he shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” ³⁹ Those who were in front sternly ordered him to be quiet; but he shouted even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” ⁴⁰ Jesus stood still and ordered the man to be brought to him; and when he came near, he asked him, ⁴¹ “What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me see again.” ⁴² Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has saved you.” ⁴³ Immediately he regained his sight and followed him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, praised God.

Verse-by-Verse Exegesis

Verse 35: “As he approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging.”
The blind man’s condition highlights both physical and social limitations—blindness and poverty—that make him vulnerable and dependent on others. In Jewish society, blindness was often seen as a symbol of spiritual ignorance, yet Jesus often chose to heal the blind, emphasizing God’s compassion toward all who suffer.

Verse 36-37: “When he heard a crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, ‘Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.’”
The blind man’s question suggests his alertness to what is happening around him, despite his physical blindness. He senses an opportunity approaching and is eager to know if it might bring him the hope he seeks.

Verse 38: “Then he shouted, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’”
By calling Jesus “Son of David,” the man publicly acknowledges Jesus’ messianic role. This title carries great significance, as it identifies Jesus as the promised descendant of David, whom the Jews expected to restore Israel. The man’s cry for mercy, a heartfelt plea, reveals a faith that recognizes Jesus’ power and authority.

Verse 39: “Those who were in front sternly ordered him to be quiet; but he shouted even more loudly, ‘Son of David, have mercy on me!’”
Though others discourage him, the blind man persists, demonstrating his determination and trust in Jesus. This persistence underlines an important aspect of faith: a refusal to be silenced by opposition or doubt. The Church teaches that faith must be persistent, particularly in times of difficulty (CCC 2613).

Verse 40-41: “Jesus stood still and ordered the man to be brought to him; and when he came near, he asked him, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ He said, ‘Lord, let me see again.’”
Jesus’ question is profound, as it invites the man to express his desire in his own words. By asking, “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus shows that He respects human freedom, allowing us to openly express our needs. The blind man’s simple request, “Lord, let me see again,” represents a longing not only for physical sight but also for spiritual clarity and a restored life.

Verse 42: “Jesus said to him, ‘Receive your sight; your faith has saved you.’”
Jesus heals the man, affirming that his faith has led to this miracle. This line connects faith with salvation, a central theme in Luke’s Gospel. The man’s faith—a complete trust in Jesus’ ability and willingness to help—opens the door for God’s power to transform his life.

Verse 43: “Immediately he regained his sight and followed him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, praised God.”
The man’s immediate response after receiving his sight is to follow Jesus and glorify God. His gratitude and discipleship serve as an example for all believers. The crowd’s reaction, praising God, emphasizes the communal impact of faith-filled transformation. In the Gospels, public miracles often inspire collective praise, drawing others closer to faith.

Teachings and References

• Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2616) speaks about the prayers of the humble, saying, “The prayer of faith consists not only in saying, ‘Lord, Lord,’ but in disposing the heart to do the will of the Father.” The blind man’s persistent faith aligns with this teaching, as he trusts not only in Jesus’ power but also in His mercy.
• St. Augustine famously said, “Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe.” The blind beggar’s faith enabled him to “see” Jesus’ messianic role even before he was physically healed.
• In the context of Church history, early Christians often saw physical healings as signs pointing to the greater healing of the soul. This story illustrates the transformative power of faith to heal both body and spirit.

Reflection and Application

This Gospel challenges us to ask, How persistent is my faith, especially when I face obstacles or feel overlooked? The blind man’s example teaches us that faith requires both trust and determination. He cries out for mercy, undeterred by opposition, and through his faith, he receives the healing he longs for.

Practical Steps for Reflection:

1. Bring Your Needs to God Openly – Like the blind beggar, express your needs and desires to God in prayer, trusting in His compassion. Be specific and persistent, knowing that God hears the cries of His children.
2. Trust in God’s Timing – When we don’t see immediate answers, remember the blind man’s persistence and faith. Faith requires patience and trust, even when circumstances seem discouraging.
3. Express Gratitude and Follow Closely – The healed man responds by glorifying God and following Jesus. Each time we receive blessings, we are invited to “follow” more closely by offering our gratitude through prayer and action.

How can you express your faith more boldly today? Perhaps through prayer, service, or simply a deeper trust in God’s mercy. Let today’s Gospel remind us that our cries for mercy are heard, and that through faith, we can experience God’s transformative love.

Rekindling the Flame of Faith

Today’s readings beautifully remind us of the call to return to our “first love” for God—a love that is vibrant, faithful, and deeply rooted in Him. From Revelation’s message to the church in Ephesus, we are urged to rekindle the love we once had, to repent, and to renew our dedication to Christ. The Responsorial Psalm then invites us to choose the path of righteousness, promising us that a life grounded in God’s law brings lasting fruit and prosperity. Finally, in the Gospel of Luke, we witness the blind beggar’s unwavering faith and persistent plea for mercy, which leads to both physical and spiritual healing.

Together, these passages present a powerful theme: a life of faith is one that continually returns to God, seeking His mercy and aligning our hearts with His will. When we embrace this path, we become like trees planted by streams of water, bearing fruit and drawing others closer to God’s love.

As we reflect on these messages, let us take action by reigniting our passion for our faith. Have we allowed our love for God to grow cold or become routine? Like the blind beggar, let us cry out to Jesus, asking Him to help us “see” with renewed clarity and purpose. As we walk this journey, may we strive to keep our hearts open, humble, and ready to follow Him more closely each day.

Today, let’s commit to deepening our relationship with God by carving out intentional time for prayer, reflection, and Scripture. Invite God to rekindle the flame of faith within you, and trust that He hears and answers the cries of those who seek Him earnestly. Remember, the path to spiritual renewal begins with a single step—so let us take that step with hope, courage, and a heart set on growing closer to our Creator.

“Lord, help me to return to my first love, to be rooted in Your Word, and to see You more clearly each day.”

Engage with Us!

We’d love to hear from you! Take a moment to share your reflections on today’s readings in the comments below. How has God’s Word spoken to your heart today? Join the conversation and encourage others with your insights.

Reflection Questions:

• First Reading (Revelation 1:1-4; 2:1-5): What does it mean to “return to your first love” for God? Are there areas in your life where you feel called to renew your devotion and passion for Christ?
• Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 1:1-4, 6): Reflect on the image of a tree planted by streams of water. What practices help you stay “rooted” in God’s Word and grow in faith?
• Holy Gospel (Luke 18:35-43): How does the blind man’s persistence in seeking Jesus challenge or inspire you? Are there areas where you need to cry out to God for healing or clarity, trusting in His mercy?

As you go about your day, remember that each moment is an opportunity to live out your faith. Let us strive to do everything with the love and mercy Jesus taught us, knowing that our witness can draw others to Him. May our hearts stay open to God’s grace, and may we walk each day with the courage to love, forgive, and serve wholeheartedly.

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