Homily: Thirty-second Wednesday of Ordinary Time (Wisdom 6:1-11) “Power from Above”
In the Judeo-Christian tradition, it has always been held that those who govern are given their authority by God. We remember Jesus words to Pilate in the passion narrative in the Gospel of John. Pilate asks Jesus in 19:10, “Do you not realize that I have the power to release you, or I have the power to crucify you?”
Jesus’ response echoes through the ages, “You would have no power if it was not given to you from above. Pilate was a secular ruler so this seems like a statement that could be debated. Was Pilates power given to him by the emperor or was it given to him by God?
When we reflect on where the power of church leaders comes from, we easily can imagine that they have been given authority by God. We hold that the church is guided by the Holy Spirit. We pray for our Pope and bishop at every Mass that is celebrated. Most clergy would say that they have a ministry because of divine providence. This does not mean that some church leaders do not become corrupted by power. We all can think of pastors who have committed various sins. We clergy can be blinded by the deference we are given.
Do secular leaders have this same understanding when they achieve high office? Many times, governmental leaders wield unfettered power. We can think of those who have military power.
At the present time there are any number of military conflicts happening. We see on our television screens innocent civilians who are suffering because of the decisions of a few powerful men.
We must wonder if our world leaders ever reflect on where their power comes from. Do they believe that one day they will have to answer to God for the decisions that they make. In their hands, they hold the power of life or death over thousands of people.
We pray world leaders that they may will not be impetuous but thoughtful. Their decisions will impact the future of the world.
Reflection Questions:
1. Are there leaders who are careful with the power they have? Who are they?
2. When I vote, do I think of whether the person I vote for is humble? Is humility an important quality for a leader?
Dear Parishioners,
The holidays are fast approaching. We will once again be having our Advent evening prayers on Sundays. This is a chance to slow down and prayerfully contemplate the coming of the Lord.
This year we will be having speakers who will reflect on the meaning of the Eucharist. This theme blends with the Eucharistic revival that we have been observing over the past year and a half.
The evening prayers will take place on December 3rd, 10th and 17th. Watch our bulletin for more details.
May Our Lady Peace intercede for the people of Israel and Palestine.
Fr. Mark