Greetings on this the Wednesday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: 2 Maccabees 7:1, 20-31; Psalm 17:1bcd, 5-6, 8b and 15; Luke 19:11-28
Summary
After he had said this, he proceeded on his journey up to Jerusalem (Lk 19:28).
In our gospel portion today, Jesus completes his teaching ministry in Jericho and Galilee with The Parable of the Ten Gold Coins. From then on the gospel account has him in Jerusalem until the Passion of the Lord. Until now (but not exclusively) the teaching and messages were for the Lost House of Israel. With this parable and beyond the message is to a broader audience and, in particular, about the people in power and the tension and conflict between holiness and greed.
So what is the purpose of the final Outside-of-Jerusalem teaching?
The gospel account contains the explicit answer: he proceeded to tell a parable because he was near Jerusalem and they thought that the kingdom of God would appear there immediately (Lk 19:11b). He resets the expectation on making the Kingdom present in Service and using the treasures of life to promote the well-being of humanity.
- The Lord is not coming back this very moment but has entrusted the Good for us to share. So he said, “A nobleman went off to a distant country to obtain the kingship for himself and then to return. He called ten of his servants and gave them ten gold coins and told them, ‘Engage in trade with these until I return.’ (Lk 19:12-13).
- Some listen to the Call of the Lord and minister with the treasures they have. He replied, ‘Well done, good servant! You have been faithful in this very small matter; take charge of ten [and five] cities (LK 19:17, 19).
- Some do not share the treasures that they have with poor reasoning. I was afraid of you, because you are a demanding person (Lk 19:21).
- Some hate the idea of sharing at all. Now as for those enemies of mine who did not want me as their king (Lk 19:27).
Reflection
Our first reading is an example fo the extremes some endure in faith. Filled with a noble spirit that stirred her womanly heart with manly courage, she exhorted each of them (2 Mac 7:21) to endure what for them is fatal and for her the greatest pain of a Mother, the loss of life of her children, but with the hopeful expectation of the Divine Restoration. She is the embodiment of the Psalmist cry: Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full (PS 17:15b).
Personal Reflection
Jesus’ final words to us coming into Jerusalem are simple.
- I will return but focus on continuing my work of building the Kingdom.
- I will not disappoint.
- Do not squander your riches for only personal gain. Share.
- Do not hate sharing. Find freedom in sharing.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/111925.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry