Friday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Two Fridays ago, we read the gospel from the ninth chapter of Matthew where, just like today, Jesus references Hosea 6:6 during a confrontation with the Pharisees, “If you knew what this meant, I desire mercy, not sacrifice, you would not have condemned these innocent men. For the Son of Man is Lord of the sabbath” (Mt 12:7-8). Conversations about rules, choices, and consequences are a common occurrence in our household as our children process and attempt to understand the why behind our decisions and expectations. Our kids challenge us to really have thoughtful and intentional rules. They don’t always agree with the standards we set, but if we can show them the purpose or have examples to cite from prior results or lived experiences, it helps them comprehend the meaning.
Rules don’t make sense if they aren’t established for the good of humanity. They should serve the common good, not create hurdles or barriers to human flourishing. The needs of humans are higher than any rule or law. While rules should be followed, they do not cover every situation. The Son of Man, a human being, is Lord of the sabbath, not the other way around. Wherever rules, laws, or regulations create human suffering, we have failed in their actual purpose. Our standards of living should protect human dignity and serve the common good of all.
As the body of Christ, we are called to pursue justice and mercy. There is a lot to be concerned about today. According to Oxfam, every day, 6,164 children under age 5 die from malnutrition or a related, preventable illness. Between the devastation of recent hurricanes and environmental disasters, the wars in Ukraine, Gaza, and elsewhere, and the vile rhetoric infused in our political system, our work is never ending. Yet, at no point in our lives does Jesus abandon us. His love lives on through our work and commitment to one another. St. Teresa of Calcutta wrote, “We are able to go through the most terrible places fearlessly, because Jesus is in us.” What a blessing it is when we realize that we are not alone; Jesus is here. We walk this journey together. Our daughters love the movie, Frozen 2, and in the movie, there is a line/song from Elsa and Anna about doing the next right thing. We take each step of our journey one choice at a time. We move forward boldly with Christ in us through doubt and fear. The Son of Man is Lord. Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on us. Let us love one another.
“God asks of us not promises but efforts - sustained and persevering efforts.” - St. Julie Billiart
Peace,
Brandon Meyer