Greetings on this the Wednesday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: Dn 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28; Dn 3:62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67; Lk 21:12-19
Notes:
Summary
The third in a series of three readings related to Nebuchadnezzar and his ‘son’ Belshazzar.
The second one here: http://deacongerrypalermo.blog/2023/11/28/thy-kingdom-come-or-man-proposes-god-disposes/
In today’s first reading Belshazzar (whos ‘father’ is Nebuchadnezzar – meaning he learned his wicked ways from Nebuchadnezzar) is called to task for his kingship. We continue to read of the bravery of Daniel and his companions. In the gospel portion, Jesus calls us to a new type of bravery. Letting God do the talking.
Reflection
Who can deny when confronted with accusations and mischaracterizations that we want to defend ourselves? In particular to our faith and how we live out our faith.
Jesus doesn’t want us to take time formatting and preparing extensive answers. He wants to speak for us and with us through the way in which we live and how we handle difficulty. It takes a lot of trust to allow the LORD to answer for us such that he will provide a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute.
That is the point. He may speak words. Or not. But it will be irrefutable.
Speak, LORD, your servant is listening.
Personal Reflection
Like most others I feel compelled to defend myself against accusations. It seems people can come up with all sorts of strange and odd twists to the truth. In the ordinary sense I try and downwardly focus on the goals and mission and allow the detractions ebb just based on good data. In matters of faith, the same.
I do ask for spiritual guidance in my writing. It’s always a rabbit hole to listen to people who are negative. They have an inexhaustible supply of negativity.
Do good. Act justly. Speak if necessary.
First Reading
This is the writing that was inscribed:
MENE, TEKEL, and PERES.
These words mean:
MENE, God has numbered your kingdom and put an end to it;
TEKEL, you have been weighed on the scales and found wanting;
PERES, your kingdom has been divided and given to the Medes and Persians.
Responsorial
Give glory and eternal praise to him.
Gospel Acclamation
Remain faithful until death, And I will give you the crown of life.
Gospel
Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry