Saturday of the First Week in Ordinary Time
Our current society is filled with fear, anger, hatred and condemnation, and yet as Christians we know that we are called to live differently as followers of Jesus. Today’s readings remind us that each one of us must recognize our sinfulness and need for healing as we turn to Jesus as the source of mercy and forgiveness. As Christians, we are called to face the evil both within our hearts and around us, and ask Jesus for timely help to restore peace and love for all people.
In the first reading, we hear about Jesus- the word of God- and his ability to penetrate and discern people’s hearts. Each individual is called to “render an account.” Each person is reminded to “hold fast to our confession.” No one is without guilt or sin, and therefore each one must recognize and admit the need for forgiveness. Yet this does not leave us downcast because Jesus understands our weaknesses, since He has lived as one of us- “yet without sin.” With confidence in the love of God, the author encourages us to “confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.”
The gospel reading revolves around the call of Matthew and Jesus’ tendency to mingle with sinners. The Pharisees are unable to understand why Jesus would want to spend time with those that were considered outcasts in the society. Instead of criticizing the Pharisees, Jesus points out that that it is those who are “sick” who need help. The righteous do not recognize their need for mercy, and therefore do not receive the grace and healing. The tax collectors and sinners who come to Jesus humbly acknowledge their need for healing. Because of their righteousness, the Pharisees do not see their own sickness and sin, and therefore there is no opportunity for grace to bring the needed help for recovery.
When reflecting on the current state in our world, it is easy to seek and find others to blame for all that is bad. Unfortunately, this tendency to scapegoat other people removes any admission of personal fault. As Christians, Jesus reminds us that we all have need for repentance and mercy. The readings today challenge us to look within and identify ways that we need to “render an account” of ways that we have not lived as disciples of Christ. God already is aware of our thoughts and our ways, but if we do not recognize our need for mercy, we will not be able to receive the healing that is needed. Humility and faith in God’s love allow us to approach God and experience renewal. Jesus sends help one person at a time, and then God sends healed sinners forward to bring peace, love and justice to others.
The Word of God- Jesus- is the source of where we must seek wisdom, truth and justice. Our responsorial psalm today reminds us that God’s law is trustworthy, right, just and provides wisdom. It is through Jesus and His life that we can find the blueprint for how we are called to live. When we live by God’s precepts, our souls are refreshed and our hearts rejoice. This gladness is not due to our righteous belief that we can judge and condemn others, but our joy is rooted in the belief that we are loved sinners sent forth to love others- even those that we find most difficult to love. The healing and grace that is needed right now in our world needs to begin with each of us. The timely help of God is available when we are able to look within and admit our faults. May our hearts be open and ready for this grace, so we can be like Matthew and “get up and follow Jesus.”
Loving God, Your Son Jesus knows the challenges of living in this world and shows us the way to live a life of love. Send your Spirit upon us as we call out for healing and mercy. May we become healed sinners to bring peaceand love for our troubled world. We pray this in Christ’s name. AMEN.
- Marylynn Herchline