Homily: Third Friday of Lent

Third Friday of Lent (Mk. 12:28-34) “Jesus’ Enemies”

As we move toward the middle of Lent, we read stories of Jesus getting into debates with religious leaders. These leaders are labeled in various ways. We hear of scribes, pharisees, the Sanhedrin and in the Gospel of John the people who try to trip Jesus up are referred to as simply the Jews.

 Who are all these different groups? The scribes were people who studied the law. They were men who could read and write. They might deal with religious matters, and they might deal with secular matters. Most of the people in Jesus’ world could not read. Illiteracy was prevalent until recent times in most populations. Sometimes it is speculated that even Jeus could not read. The only formal education in his society might be education that came through the synagogue. Boys would be taught to read he Torah in Hebrew.

 The Pharisees were also literate. They were the people who explained the Mosaic law to common people. They might have regular jobs, but they also spent time studying Scripture and rabbinic literature. Rabbinic literature was a commentary on the scripture. The Pharisees believed that people had a soul and could have eternal life.

 The Sadducees were wealthy individuals. There were two classes of people in Biblical times. You were either rich or you were poor. There was no middle class. The Sadducees were part of the ruling class and they collaborated with the Roman authorities. The Sanhedrin was a council of elders of men who were prominent and ran the local government of Jerusalem. Finally, we have the priests who administered the temple. There was one high priest who was the most powerful Jewish figure in Jerusalem.

 All these people had a privileged position, and they did not appreciate an upstart Rabbi gaining popularity. It should be remembered that the common folk liked Jesus. The ruling class were more hostile, and it was the people with power who plotted against our Lord.

1.    Did I know about all the different groups Jesus dealt with? Am I surprised there were so many?

2.   What is the danger of lumping all these people together? Do preachers make that mistake?

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 Dear Parishioners,

           The His Hands Our Hearts program will be having a pledge drive this weekend. Please bring the pledge card you received with you when you come to Mass. This an Offertory Program so that we might increase our weekly collections. I hope you can support us in this effort. Sacred Heart touches all our lives.

          Almsgiving along with prayer and fasting are important during the Lenten Season. Sacred Heart depends on your charity so we can make our daily expenses. Thanks in advance for supporting our efforts.

          May Our Lady of Peace pray for us,

          Fr. Mark