21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
The words of Scripture can comfort, cause us to squirm, and challenge us. Today’s readings do all three.
We draw comfort from Isaiah knowing the broad expanse of God’s love and acceptance of all. Boundaries give way to God’s abundant desire to welcome all, including us. Jesus does not answer the question will only a few people be saved. But apparently, the number is far beyond what we can comprehend. But we continue to insist on identifying those who are in and those who are outside. How do I define those in or out?
We may have a sense of confidence that we are in and have no need to fear. However, the Gospel passage today may cause us to squirm a little. Jesus is quite clear that some who thought they were in may find themselves outside, knocking on the door. We ate and drank in your company, and you taught in our streets. It appears that identifying ourselves as members, participating in rituals, and following the basic principles may not be enough. We are asked for more than physical presence at the table. We are asked for more than just hearing the teaching. How well have we listened to Christ’s message of love? Do we realize that we are all brothers and sisters at the family meal? Do we realize that the basic principles call us to a transformation in our relationship with God and with others?
And now the challenge. One meaning for the word discipline in Hebrew is instruction, training for responsible living. Jesus refers to himself as the gate (John 10). He is the narrow gate that leads us to life. Through prayer, we deepen our relationship; through the Eucharist, we share in his meal; and through our service, we are recognized as His own. May we surrender to God’s discipline.
Prayer:
Good and gracious God, we thank you for your kindness and fidelity to us even when we fail to love and accept others. Open our eyes to the wonder and beauty of every human person. Open our hearts to embrace all. And send the Spirit to strengthen our drooping hands and weak knees when we become overwhelmed. In Jesus’ name we pray.
