I live in Minnesota, and the news here this past month has been dark and disturbing. Looking at this Sunday’s readings in light of what is happening in Minnesota illuminates for me Gospel values that are in sharp contrast to recent events. I am not a political writer, but I feel God’s message clearly sets out the actions and attitudes I need to do and have as a disciple of Christ.
The First Reading from Zephaniah asks us to seek justice. We are called to make judgments on what is fair and ethical. The Bible often uses the word righteousness in talking about being just. The word encompasses decency, morality, and honesty. We are also told to seek humility which is also spoken about in the Second Reading when it says, “Whoever boasts, should boast in the Lord.” 1 Cor 1:31. This verse reminds me of Galatians 2:20: “yet I live, no longer I, but Christ lives in me.”
Psalm 146:6-10 makes it all clear. What does the Lord do? The Lord secures justice for the oppressed, gives food to the hungry, and sets captives free. The Lord gives sight to the blind, raises up those who were bowed down, loves the just, and protects strangers. The fatherless and the widow the Lord sustains, but the way of the wicked he thwarts.
A common theme in the Old Testament is the protection of the most vulnerable: the stranger, the orphan, and the widow - people who had no rights in that time and culture. People who are often without power in today’s culture as well.
I am praying that God thwarts the “way of the wicked,” the random cruelty, thoughtlessness, and chaos in the news every day.
Finally, we have the Gospel of the Beatitudes, Matthew 5:1-12. Each line can be a meditation on Christian discipleship. Each line can be an examination of conscience for how we are living our day-to-day lives. Reflect on these positive “commandments” this week. Instead of “Thou shalt not,” remember that “Blessed are.” I am taking to heart: “Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.”
What speaks to your heart from this weeks’ readings?