Reading and meditation on the Word of God on Thursday of the twenty-eighth week in ordinary time, October 15, 2026, Memorial of Saint Teresa of Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church.
The theme for our meditation today is: The Truth of Our Faith. The city of Avila in central Spain, is the city of Saint Teresa who, because of her sanctity, strength and excellence in the spirit of Christian life, was able to change the entire society in the city. Teresa who was from the most influential noble family in the city, was seen as a symbol of the safety and peace of the city.
Today Avila is the only city in the world protected entirely by the medieval walls that are still intact. There are almost no visible ruins or remain damages like in many other cities in the world due to the wars or lack of significant maintenance. Avila is truly for the people of this world, an acknowledgment of the well grounded Christian faith in Teresa personally and the cultural character of Spain or Christianity in Europe as well.
Reflection on the cross of the Lord Jesus as a bridge for us to arrive in heaven is one of Saint Teresa's special spiritual heritages. This teaching helps enrich Christian reflection on faith that justifies us and not the law. According to the law, the cross is a consequence of a very serious crime. The end is a very undignified death. But it is not according to faith.
The cross of Jesus Christ confirms that our calling to become followers of Christ was designed by God, even before the creation of the universe, says Saint Paul in today's first reading. We have been determined by the Lord Jesus that we belong to Him and to become perfect like Him, we must go through the cross. Anyone who is called who does not recognize the cross is not a true follower of Christ.
The truth of faith has a horizon of reality of life that has no limits. We have this grace in eternity, even though we and the life in this world are only temporary. One of the proofs of this grace is the mercy of God that is always eternal. Every time we sin, we come to the merciful God who is so compassionate and forgiving. Even if for example we forget and do not receive the sacraments, their truth will never get lost because of our neglect or even our rejection.
The truth of faith transcends all kinds of facts founded from different points of view, which come and go from time to time. The Pharisees and the scribes wanted to prevent that truth from growing further yet they were not able to do that. Likewise today, all kinds of truths belong to this world either big or small will recognize the truth of faith in God who rules over us and who give us dignity as human beings and as the people of faith.
Let's pray. In the name of the Father ... O Lord, accept our offering today and purify our bodies and souls. Hail Mary, full of grace... In the name of the Father ...
