Reflection for Monday, June 16, 2008: 11th week in Ordinary Time.
No Thumbnail Available
Authors
Schlegel, John, S.J.
Issue Date
2008-06-16
Volume
Issue
Type
Essay
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
What are we to make of today's readings? What do they say to us as we go about our business on this beautiful June day?||In the first reading, Ahab and Jezebel use greed, conspiracy and ultimately murder to successfully gain a highly sought after vineyard. In the gospel, Jesus invokes the Old Testament commandment meant to moderate vengeance: "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." This indicates that the punishment should not exceed the crime/the injury done. Jesus forbids even this proportionate retaliation, suggesting we respond to our better instincts. Even the response to the Psalm gives one pause: "Lord, listen to my groaning."|These readings speak of many things, one being human nature and how we respond to the challenges and opportunities of life. How we respond to each other. On any given day we are confronted with choices. The choices we make shape the life we lead and the relationships we experience.|We all know there are shadows in all of our gardens. We know from experience that we have the capacity to be children of the light and respond in word and deed to the ways of God in whose image we are made. We also know we have the capacity to deviate from that path and do the opposite. In today's Psalm, David expresses that divided heart as he prays for the security and protection of the temple from evildoers.|As we pray today, let's ask the question: For what am I groaning; what brings me pain; what or whom do I long for; why am I distracted; what attracts me and pulls me into the shadows of life? Then in the spirit of the psalmist we pray with confidence today's Psalm 5:|Can you hear, O God, what I have to say? Do you feel something of what I feel this morning? I know, O God, that you are grieved by the selfishness of your children. The world you created seems to be falling apart. Your creatures are living for themselves alone, proud and self-sufficient. They think they do not need you any longer.I also know, O Lord, that I cannot exist without the assurance of your eternal love. Thus I commit myself once more to you and your purposes. Help me walk in your path for my life. Give me grace to overcome the many obstacles... ...those who follow you need not be dismayed. They can sing and dance in the joy of their Lord. You will continue to reveal yourself to them and care for them and work out your purposes in and through them. (L.F.Brandt translation)
Description
Citation
Publisher
University Ministry, Creighton University.
License
These reflections may not be sold or used commercially without permission. Personal or parish use is permitted.
Journal
Volume
Issue
PubMed ID
DOI
Identifier
Lectionary number: 365