Reading and meditation on the Word of God on Tuesday of the 22nd week in ordinary time, September 2, 2025

Delivered by Samuel Ivan Gunarsa from the Parish of Mary of All Nations in the Diocese of Bogor, Indonesia. 1 Thessalonians 5: 1-6.9-11; Rs psalm 27: 1.4.13-14; Luke 4: 31-37.DO NOT GIVE SPACE TO SATAN The title for our meditation today is: Do Not GiveSpace to Satan. There is an office worker named Andi who works in the financedepartment. He often faces the temptation to "play numbers" forpersonal gain. Satan always whisper: "No one will know. Just a little.With that money you can be happier."  There are even friends who suggest it as somethingordinary. However, Andi remembers that his work is a blessing from God andevery money he manages is a deposit. He always prays: "Lord, keep me fromfalling into this temptation. It is better for me to live a simple but cleanlife, than to live a luxurious life with a dirty heart." The prayer giveshim the strength to remain honest. Some time later, a case of misappropriation of fundsin his office was revealed, and several of his colleagues were exposed to legalproblems. Andi was praised for choosing the path of truth from the beginning.In fact, his honesty made him trusted by the leadership and got a promotion.From this story we see that the power of God that lives in man is able toovercome Satan's temptations, even protecting man from destruction. The actionsof Jesus recounted in today's Gospel very clearly show that. People often do not realize that their lives are in aspiritual war. Satan tries to get in through the little gaps that we leaveopen: unbridled anger, pride that is allowed to grow, or greed that is not challenged.He seeks space and time to deceive man, weakening man and slowly moving awayfrom God. Therefore, we are called to be on the watch, not giving Satan theslightest opportunity to rule in our lives. However, God does not let man struggle alone. He givesthe Holy Spirit the power that enables us to resist all of Satan's deceptions.God's word becomes a sword, prayer becomes a fortress, and faith becomes asolid shield. Although Satan is numerous, they are no match for God's power.Just as the light that drives away darkness, so the presence of God in man isable to drive away Satan who tries to enslave us. This life is not to get lost and submit to Satan'spower, but for God and His glory. We are created to walk in the light, to bewitnesses of love and truth, and to radiate the glory of God in all that we do.When we are aware of the purpose of this life, we will not easily fall into thetrap of sin.  Let us pray. In the name of the Father ... O Lord Jesus,strengthen us with Your power so that we can defeat Satan in all our lifesituations. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit ... Inthe name of the Father ...