+(Intro) This morning we will hear from St Paul of how the Holy Spirit comes to us in our weakness. So let us pause a moment to own our own weakness, any failures to be fully open to the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
(After the gospel) Jesus’ response to the person who asked him “will only a few people be saved” is a challenge for us all. Jesus reminding us that many will attempt to enter heaven but will not be strong enough, reminds each and all of us to own our weakness. For it is then that the Spirit comes to our aid “with inexpressible groanings.”
The whole of our lives is to be attuned to the presence and working of the Holy Spirit because otherwise we will hear from the Lord that he does not know where we are from. Jesus is inviting us to take a careful look at what motivates our thoughts, words and actions. If it is selfish interest, we would do well to own our weakness so as to be filled with the Spirit’s inexpressible groanings.
It is faith in God’s tender mercy that makes us to be numbered among the people coming from east and west, from the north and the south reclining at the table in the Kingdom of God. By faith in this tenderness Jesus invites us, even here to recline at this table.
Rom 8:26-30; Luke13:22-30