Memorial of Saint John Bosco, Priest
Surely the expression don’t kill the messenger must have in part been inspired by today’s scripture. David went against the will of the Lord by having the number of men fit for military service counted. God wanted David to trust that the Lord would provide for the needs of Israel, instead of trying to calculate his options. While David regretted his sin, his contrition did not preclude that there would be consequences for his actions. Thus, imagine how David felt when the prophet Gad came to offer him a choice of punishments. David knew that no matter what choice he made, there would be harsh ramifications both for himself and the community.
Ironically, David’s hindsight about his poor choice was of little comfort to the community upon whom the recompense was served. To his credit, David pleaded with the angel, “Punish me and my kindred.” (2 Sam 24:17) Not only did he claim responsibility for his unwise choices, he had compassion for the people suffering because of his disobedience. We are often like David. Because of our lack of trust, we sometimes make poor choices. How often do we say, “Now why did I do that? Or, “I wish I had thought my choice through better.” David’s lesson is not unfamiliar to us either as individuals or as a culture.
Consider how often there are decisions made that have consequences on our whole country. Locally, the last Catholic hospital in Dayton is closing, is this a portent for Catholic Health Care nationally. In the last two decades, we have entered wars that the Church declared unjust, and many communities were destroyed. This includes the ancient Catholic community in Iraq. Families in the U.S. are being torn apart by what seems to be unfair immigration enforcement.
That others make bad decisions around us does not mean we need to choose the same path. Take the example of Jesus in the gospel today. While teaching in his hometown, people took offense to his mighty words and deeds. Jesus’s compassion allowed him to heal some of the sick, despite the lack of faith.
Lack of faith or trust in God can cause us to rely on ourselves and on our understanding. It can undermine Christ’s ability to reign in our life. Does everything we say and do reflect the wisdom of Christ in our hearts? How does the wisdom of our choices or the lack thereof, outwardly give flesh to the body of Christ? By definition our words and deeds are a prophetic message. Who does our lives glorify?
St. John Bosco’s life of service to youth helped raise up them up from poverty by helping them develop life skills. His ministry and example helped young men and woman live with faith and integrity. St. John’s life of discipleship models for us how to glorify the Lord with our lives.
- Deacon Michael Montgomery