While reflecting on the First Reading (Old Testament) and the Gospel for today (the Twenty-sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time), I was struck by the attitude of ‘ownership’ expressed by both the followers of Moses and Jesus. In both readings people complain that others who are not part of their “group” are doing good works in the name of the Lord. Moses and Jesus both try to make the people understand that God is not an exclusive possession. God is greater and larger in love, mercy and grace than we may define—yet we keep trying to own God—as if our way is the only way. This is the “them⎯and⎯us” attitude we find sometimes in our politics, families and yes, even our faith. Jesus tells us to cut away these offensive parts of us—eyes, hands and feet—while actually referring to sin, to envy and to deceit.
St. James clearly tells us that if the ownership of things is more important than the needs of the poor you will “weep and wail over your impending miseries.” It is a dire warning regarding ownership: wealth rots; clothes molder; gold and silver corrodes. Remember the old saying: “You can’t take it with you…”
We are easily seduced by the perception of ownership; we are told and sold this idea constantly in the media and by the values are society evinces. It would be wiser to think spiritually: instead of thinking we own the earth, it is better to think that we are the stewards of creation. Rather than thinking we own the only way to God, we rejoice that God’s Spirit is at work in all of His children. Rather than think we ‘own’ wealth and possessions, talents and abilities, we should see these as the gifts and grace of God. Rather than think we ‘own’ positions of leadership in any community (or in any relationship of influence such as medical, parental, government, ecclesial): it would be better to understand these are positions of service.
Today’s readings should encourage us to shine the light of discernment on our attitudes and choices. St. James reminds us that God will judge us in how we perceive and use the ‘wealth’ in our lives. Remember the prayer of Moses today: “Would that all the people of the Lord were prophets! Would that the Lord might bestow His Spirit on them all!”
Keep singing!
Elizabeth Dyc
Just a Note: Many of you may be wondering where I am. For those who are unaware, I have had surgery this past week for a total left knee replacement. (You may have seen me walking with the aid of a cane.) It is a long and hard recovery, so I ask you to pray for me that I may recover well and return soon. Thank you all for your support! I will keep you updated as the weeks progress.
St. James clearly tells us that if the ownership of things is more important than the needs of the poor you will “weep and wail over your impending miseries.” It is a dire warning regarding ownership: wealth rots; clothes molder; gold and silver corrodes. Remember the old saying: “You can’t take it with you…”
We are easily seduced by the perception of ownership; we are told and sold this idea constantly in the media and by the values are society evinces. It would be wiser to think spiritually: instead of thinking we own the earth, it is better to think that we are the stewards of creation. Rather than thinking we own the only way to God, we rejoice that God’s Spirit is at work in all of His children. Rather than think we ‘own’ wealth and possessions, talents and abilities, we should see these as the gifts and grace of God. Rather than think we ‘own’ positions of leadership in any community (or in any relationship of influence such as medical, parental, government, ecclesial): it would be better to understand these are positions of service.
Today’s readings should encourage us to shine the light of discernment on our attitudes and choices. St. James reminds us that God will judge us in how we perceive and use the ‘wealth’ in our lives. Remember the prayer of Moses today: “Would that all the people of the Lord were prophets! Would that the Lord might bestow His Spirit on them all!”
Keep singing!
Elizabeth Dyc
Just a Note: Many of you may be wondering where I am. For those who are unaware, I have had surgery this past week for a total left knee replacement. (You may have seen me walking with the aid of a cane.) It is a long and hard recovery, so I ask you to pray for me that I may recover well and return soon. Thank you all for your support! I will keep you updated as the weeks progress.
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