Memorial of Saint Peter Claver, Priest
A person at work asked me, “Is it God’s will that my loved one is sick?” My standard answer is that God is not the cause of the suffering, nor does God will the suffering, however God allows the suffering. While this answer may perhaps work for this question in particular, it does not get at the suffering which Paul is directing his challenge in today's reading from Colossians.
"Put to death" the parts of you that are immoral, impure, and idolatrous. This challenge reminds us that much of the suffering we endure is in part because of our attachment to earthly things. Our lying, greed, or fury have lead us away from the heavenly. Paul's charge goes beyond an encouragement to change, he flat out demands that such a change occurs. Put away all that leads you away from Christ, and put on the new self, centered in Christ. St. Paul’s candor offers us an “all in” approach for being alive with Christ. This is why Paul insists we think of what is above.
Today’s gospel from Luke of the “Blessings and Woes” is a Lucan summary of the Kingdom of God and who Jesus has come to save. This reading, like Paul’s, is one of challenge. Most of us are in need of this directive, since is difficult to think of what is above at all times. It reminds us to reflect on the issues we are having and honestly assess the changes we need to make in order to right our course. It is only when we challenge and change what is unacceptable in our own lives that we can fully enter into a life hidden with Christ in God. We must always remember that we don’t do this alone for: “The Lord is compassionate towards all his works.”
Peter Claver took seriously the charge think of what is above. He ministered hundreds of thousands of slaves, encouraging them to see the Lord beyond their suffering.
"Lord help us to recognize the Peter Clavers in our midst, especially those challenging us to put aside that which is causing us suffering so that we can focus on Your son Jesus. We ask this through Christ our Lord."
- Michael Montgomery