Monday of the Thirty Third Week in Ordinary Time
Readings for Monday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time
http://www.usccb.org/nab/111907.shtml
Readings from the Jerusalem Bible
http://www.universalis.com/20071119/mass.htm
Commentary:
Reading 1 1 Mc 1:10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63
This reading from the First Book of Maccabees describes the introduction of Hellenistic traditions into Israel, the attempt to suppress Hebrew Tradition, desecration of the Temple with idols, and persecution of those who attempt to retain their faith and traditions. The verses selected omit some of the classic Hebrew poetry included in this book and the final verses are actually part of a Hymn of praise for those who resist the attempt by the Seleucid Kings to eliminate Mosaic Law.
Responsorial Psalm Ps 119:53, 61, 134, 150, 155, 158
R. Give me life, O Lord, and I will do your commands.
David’s lament in Psalm 119 speaks of attempts by the Gentiles to force him to become apostate and recant his faith in the Law. He reiterates his faith and calls upon God for help. Like the first reading from 1 Maccabees, those held in greatest contempt are not the gentiles but the Hebrews who turn away from the Law, violating the covenant.
Gospel Lk 18:35-43
This passage from St. Luke’s Gospel takes place as Jesus is returning to Jerusalem for the last time. The blind man, whom he cures, addresses him as “Son of David”, a clear reference to Christ’s role as Messiah. Understanding his faith, the Lord announces “Have sight, your faith has saved you.” The message being that those who recognize Jesus as the Messiah are saved.
Reflection:
It is so much easier to fit in with those who do not have the religious scruples by which we are bound. At work, at school or even just with friends and family not of the faith, wouldn’t it be easier, and make them feel more at ease if we were not bound by the great covenant we have adopted in Christ Jesus.
Those of us who have made it a point to identify ourselves as Christian or Catholic (“religious fanatics” as we are sometimes called by the secular world) know the difference that can be felt when this is done. A gathering where our faith is not shared can be locally silenced as we approach since the topic being shared might offend our sensibilities.
Yes, the life of a devout Christian can cause discomfort among those who embrace the hedonistic values of our secular society. The results of this discomfort are generally felt by us in a number of ways. First, we will not be the most popular people in a workplace, school, or family environment where our faith is not adopted by a majority of that group. In fact, depending upon the make up of the group and how far they have gone down darker paths, we may be shunned. People who love the darkness do not love the light. Depending upon how closely we are forced to associate, they may even actively persecute the faithful. The less educated the group, the more violent the persecution.
Our reception by less dedicated hedonists, those who may even call themselves Christian may be more subtle. There would likely be polite acceptance in the group but certainly not inclusion in places where they hoped to have “fun”. It is part of our mission as disciples to cause some discomfort to those who need to be called back to the light; as we saw in the Gospel, to open the eyes of the blind.
Scripture calls us to faithfulness. We are given the examples of those who have gone before us and know that it is not an easy path. We know from earliest times, those who love the darkness hate the light and that walking the path of light is dangerous. We ask today to be given the strength to walk in the light and on our journey bring light to those who live in darkness.
We leave today with the final verses of the Canticle of Zachariah which we pray in Morning Prayer:
“You my child shall be called the prophet of the Most High for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, to give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of our sins.
In the tender compassion of our God, the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death and to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Luke 1:76-79
Pax
Jim Miles, Deacon
