September 20.   TWENTY-FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME.  SACBC REFLECTION. WEEK FOUR (20 – 27 September 2026) Theme: “For me to live is Christ” (Phil 1:21)

Opening Prayer: The Prayer for Peace on the Jubilee of St Francis of Assisi. St Francis, our brother, you who 800 years ago, went to meet Sister Death as a man at peace, intercede for us with the Lord.   You who recognized true peace in the Crucifix of San Damiano teach us to seek in Him the source of all reconciliation, that breaks down all walls.  You, who unarmed, crossed the lines of war and misunderstanding, give us the courage to build bridges where the world erects borders, in this age marked by conflict and division.   Intercede for us that we may become artisans of peace; unarmed and disarming witnesses to the peace that comes from Christ.

Reflection

St Francis of Assisi set a model of what it means to live in Christ. It is being at peace with all of God’s creation. Very early in his life, he wished to reach the greatest honour as a knight, but this was human ego; trying to build a kingdom. Inspired by the story of the rich young man (Mt 19: 16-21), he emptied the store of his father, and gave all possessions to the poor. After that, he left home and felt at peace, simple, humble and poor among the poor of God. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness (Mt 6:33).

Teaching of the Church

“Life in Christ” is the third pillar of the Catechism. It summarizes moral living, emphasizing human dignity, that is rooted in being creatures of God, made in his image and likeness, and is fulfilled only when we use our freedom to lead a life of beatitudes and love. This theme covers; our vocation to know, love and serve God and come to share in His eternal happiness. Secondly, our human actions must be moral, being good and doing only good. Thirdly, our awareness that without God’s grace and the Holy Spirit we cannot be or achieve anything. Finally, live out the beatitudes in our lives, to follow the example of Christ in the way we live, especially towards our neighbour and being stewards of God’s environment.

JUSTICE FOR CREATION: INTERCONNECTEDNESS AND FAITH.                           
Whose responsibility is it to change the status quo? Live simply: Consume consciously by purchasing only what you need, reducing waste, and minimizing reliance on single-use plastics.
Support sustainable food systems: Buy locally grown produce to reduce shipping emissions and consider composting to keep organic matter out of landfills.
Engage in creation care: Dedicate time t
o ecological restoration, such as planting endemic  flora, participating in local cleanup campaigns, or protecting natural habitats. Practice mindful appreciation: Take time to observe and express gratitude for the natural world. You can explore creation-centered resources on many platforms to enhance your awareness.

DAILY FAMILY PRAYER from Season of Creation 2026.  May God our Father, who brought water from a rock, sustain us in the desert. May Christ our Lord, who is Living Water, refresh us for the work of restoration.  May the Holy Spirit carry us on currents of grace until justice rolls down like water and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream. Amen. St Francis guide and inspire us on our way.