Wednesday of the Third Week of Lent
Many years ago in a community in which I used to live, there was a wise old brother. He had a very gentle spirit and a faith that seemed to root him deeply in the Lord. His words were sometimes beyond my understanding yet, what I comprehended challenged me to my core. The man’s life, as a Brother of Mary, had taught him many lessons both joyful and difficult. Still, his passion for his faith and his desire to share it remained undimmed by years. Even to this day, his inspiration challenges me not to forget what I have been taught and to make sure that I share it with those whom I teach.
This word “teach” appears in the readings today. The word itself challenged me to understand the concept of teaching. So often I think, what happens in education is that we are given concepts to memorize so that we can pass a test. This is sometimes called teaching to the test. And while there is some validity in this approach, I wonder if it truly promotes learning or simply regurgitation. For instance, if we ask Catholics “What is the greatest commandment?” Most could answer: “love God with your heart, mind and soul, and love your neighbor as yourself.” Could they clearly answer the next question? Could they explain how that belief is realized in their daily life? The answers might be harder to come by. Yet in life of faithful disciple, we will find that our words and deeds point directly to Christ.
Most of Moses’ life and teachings pointed to the Lord. Like Moses admonition to the Israelites, Jesus challenges the disciples to live what they have been taught. Jesus wanted to make it clear to his disciples that his presence was not to abolish the law but to fulfill it. He taught that breaking commandments teaches others to do the same. Jesus called those who did this the least in the Kingdom. What do our lives teach others about Christ? Do they see our love for one another as profound or something that is just on the surface? If we examine our lives as a story, does it read like scripture? Does every word and action bring us and others closer to the Lord? If not, what could we change today? Maybe we can pledge to the Lord no more gossip or no more judging. Reflect on a way that you could refine the good news your life preaches. Remember your life proclaims a message at all times and it may be the only Gospel some will encounter today.
"Lord, help us to act as faithful disciples so that we live what we have been taught and lead others directly to You, who lives and reigns, one God now and forever. Amen."
-Michael Montgomery