Homily: Twenty-eighth Friday of Ordinary Time
Twenty-eighth Friday of Ordinary Time (Luke 12:1-7)
The way Jewish rabbis preached in Biblical times was much different than what we expect today. We want a sermon to hang together in one coherent idea, but in Jewish preaching there might be a series of ideas strung together. The preaching style was likened to having a string of pearls. Each pearl was a bit of wisdom. This is what the Gospel of Luke presents to us at Mass today. Jesus proclaims a string of disconnected thoughts, but each idea gives us a lot to think about.
One idea revolves around having a correct attitude about life. We might fear the powerful in this life. Our boss may have a lot of control over our future. We might compromise our principles if those who are our superiors want us to. This happens in the secular world. It also may happen in church circles.
We see that in the sexual abuse scandal that has rocked the church. Many times, a priest or bishop would know that child abuse was happening and would report it to those who had authority over them. The authority figure would say that the abuser would be dealt with. It was easy for the minister to absolve themselves of responsibility rather than follow-up later and ask hard questions.
We hear of the same attitude in the military. Soldiers have been asked to do barbaric things like the German soldiers did in WWII. When soldiers were asked why they arrested the innocent or executed women and children the response was usually, “I was following orders.”
The soldiers and clerics involved were worried about losing everything, but they forgot what was most important. We never want to lose our souls. Jesus would say that if we lose our souls this is the preeminent loss. His refusal to comply with evil was a major reason he ended up on the cross. Jesus, however valued his integrity more that anything else. Hopefully, if we have a moment of truth, we will value our immortal soul rather than passing privilege. When the light shines on us at the end of our time it would be best if we have not hidden anything.
Reflection Questions:
- Have I ever complied with an order from someone in authority that I thought was unethical? What caused me to do that?
- Has my desire for personal integrity ever cost me a promotion or a treasured relationship? How did I feel?
Dear Parishioners,
Our parish mission starts Sunday. I was at the school Mass today. Fr. Levitt challenged the school children to reflect on their Mass attendance on Sunday. The Sunday Mass obligation is still not in force because of the pandemic, but if have been vaccinated or have immunity do I have a reason to stay away?
The parish mission and its Eucharistic theme is meant to remind us of the importance of the Eucharist in Catholic spirituality. If we need to be energized in our faith practice, perhaps we might make attending the mission next week a priority. Remember that we will also be livestreaming each session.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you today.
Fr. Mark