Year C: 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time: Breaking Barriers (Luke 14:1,7-14)

My beloved friends in Christ,

I would like to personally invite you to join me this Sunday as we delve into a passage that has been stirring my heart all week. In Luke 14:1,7-14, Jesus finds Himself at a dinner party—but this isn't your typical social gathering. Our Lord uses this moment to teach us something profound about the kingdom of God.

Picture this scene with me: Jesus watches as guests elbow their way to the head table, seeking honor and recognition. But instead of politely ignoring this behavior, He addresses it head-on. Then He does something even more radical—He tells His host to stop inviting friends and relatives who can repay the favor, and instead welcome "the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind."

As I've prayed over these words, I keep asking myself: When was the last time I truly opened my heart to someone who couldn't give me anything in return? When have we, as a Church community, genuinely embraced those our society tends to overlook?

This Sunday, I want us to explore together what it means when grace collides with human need. I've seen this collision create some of the most beautiful transformations in our parishes—when a wealthy businessman mentors a struggling teenager, when our seniors welcome young mothers who feel alone, and when our able-bodied members advocate for accessibility improvements.

Jesus isn't just giving us social advice; He's revealing God's heart for the forgotten and marginalized. He's showing us that true blessing comes not from climbing social ladders but from extending ladders to others.

Come expecting to be challenged, encouraged, and perhaps a little uncomfortable. That's where God's grace does its best work.

Looking forward to worship with you,

Archbishop ++Sean Alexander, DD, OSB
Presiding Archbishop
Archdiocese of the Sacred Heart