Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity

Today's Mass Readings

What does it mean to be children of God? While this is a big question that we will consider throughout our lives, today’s readings seem to ask us to take time to think about how we would each answer that question. Most importantly, today’s readings provide us with some answers and point us in the direction of others. In our first reading, we find Moses speaking to the Israelites about the special relationship that God has developed with them. Moses describes their very personal interaction with God in Egypt and instructs them that, in return, they are compelled to keep God’s commandments. As we know, this personal relationship between God and the Israelites was extended to all mankind through Jesus.

In our second reading, St. Paul picks up on this idea of God’s personal relationship with us and refers to us as “children of God.” (Rom 8:16) For St. Paul, this deeply personal family relationship carries with it a tremendous gift for if we are children of God then we have special relationship with Christ and we may be “glorified with Him.” (Rom 8:17) As John Paul II stated, it is our “divine adoption” that should define our lives. By being a child of God, we find that we have a special way to share in the life and role of Jesus. Jesus is the perfect son, and we are each called to follow his example.

While this special relationship with God carries with it many implications, we can quickly consider one aspect of defining our relationship with God in the context of a family. Without the constant care of a parent, a small child will quickly deteriorate and die. Similarly, as children of God, we are dependent upon Him. We have probably each found that the more that we allow God to assist us, the healthier we become. While, like a small child without the care of a parent, when we turn away from God, we begin to deteriorate.

How does Jesus call us to follow his example as a child of God? In part, the answer is found in today’s Gospel reading, where he directs the disciples to go forth and make “disciples of all nations . . . teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” (Mt 28:19-20) As adopted sons and daughters in the divine family, we are called upon to follow the example of the One Begotten Son of God by conveying the Gospel message and making divine filiation the center of our lives.

- John Sperino