There are several very reflective themes that emerge from the readings this weekend. God always looks after the poor, the deaf, the orphan, the widow. He has a loving heart towards these individuals. For all of us, acting justly demands the ability to recognize one’s humble status in relationship to God and to cry out for His providence and guidance. The poor, like all of us, depend daily on God who showers His love upon His dear children.
The Parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector is a stark reminder that too much emphases on one’s righteousness can lead to a forgetfulness of the real meaning of our Christian dignity. Being overly concerned for one’s human righteousness makes one depend too much on worldly wisdom and wealth. Jesus’ parable shows the reverse of worldly thinking. The tax collector speaks of his own sinfulness and need for God’s mercy. The example of the tax collector is one we should meditate upon and adopt as our own on a daily basis. Every moment of our lives we are in deep need of God’s mercy for the sins of the past, present and future.
The Lord hears the cry of the poor, both those who need help materially and those who are in need spiritually. Do we see ourselves among the poor whom the Lord embraces with His mercy and benevolence?
Sister Diane Marie Corrado, CSFN
