Contend Contented

Greetings on this the Tuesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: Gn 32:23-33; PS 17:1b, 2-3, 6-7ab, 8b and 15; Mt 9:32-38
Notes: Pray for Pope Francis healing from surgery, Surfside family condolences.

First reading
Jacob exemplifies the common but urgent human struggle.

We must contend with man and with God.
Jacob fearful of his own brother, Esau, whom he cunningly defrauded.

Esau as it turned out was big hearted with his little brother the next day.
The Lord, not so much, wrestling with Jacob through the night.

I think you would agree that the night time conversations with the Lord are sometimes moments of contention. See below in our psalm selection today.

But it is in such moments of justice that we behold the face of the Lord (Peni-el).
In fact Israel, the name given Jacob, recalls this reality.

“you contended with divine beings.”

Responsorial Psalm
In justice, I shall behold your face, O Lord.

From you let my judgment come;
your eyes behold what is right.
Though you test my heart, searching it in the night,
though you try me with fire, you shall find no malice in me.

Alleluia Verse
I am the good shepherd, says the Lord;
I know my sheep, and mine know me.

Gospel Portion
A demoniac who could not speak was brought to Jesus,
and when the demon was driven out the mute man spoke.

We need to contend with man and God.

We need to give the oppressed their voice again.

At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them
because they were troubled and abandoned,
like sheep without a shepherd.
Then he said to his disciples,
“The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few;
so ask the master of the harvest
to send out laborers for his harvest.”

Be content to contend.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry