How does it move you?

Greetings on this the Tuesday of the Third Week of Advent
Readings: Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13; Psalm 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-18, 19 and 23; Matthew 21:28-32

Summary

I am often asked the value of/opinion about different prayer traditions. Which one is better? Should I do pray this way or that way? Related to that I am often asked the value of/opinion about a variety of pious and religious acts. Which is better? Should I do this thing or that thing?

Consider what Jesus says on the topic. John came preaching right relation and lived a exemplary life of personal humility and piety. Those who listened to him with sincerity did a personal self-evaluation and received his baptism of repentance and amendment of their way of life. John had credibility. John spoke and lived truth. John moved people to their better self and toward unity with the divine.

When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did (Mt 21:32a). They shall do no wrong and speak no lies; Nor shall there be found in their mouths a deceitful tongue; They shall pasture and lie down with none to disturb them (Zep 3:13). Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him (Mt 21:32b).

Reflection

Our gospel portion today gives the answer to the question: How should I pray and what should I do? Is answered with the question: How does it move you? Jesus observed tax collectors (people with power) and prostitutes (women with no power) both called to change in the encounter with lived truth.

Jesus is saying simply: listen to John, see his life’s conduct. What effects does t have on you and others? Are you and the people moved to change? Are you and they moving toward their better self? In the same way, evaluate any modern worship practice.

Formulas are good. Outcomes are a better tool of evaluation. John the Baptist moved them and Jesus the Lord moves me.

Moved To

(From Psalm 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-18, 19 and 23)

1. Bless the LORD at all times
2. His praise shall be ever in my mouth.
3. Let my soul glory in the LORD;
4. May the lowly will hear me and be glad.
5. Look to him that you may be radiant with joy.
6. Your faces may not blush with shame.
7. Calling out, the LORD heard, and from all distress he saved him.
8. When the just cry out, the LORD hears them.
9. From all their distress he rescues them.
10. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
11. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted.
12. Those who are crushed in spirit he saves.
13. The LORD redeems the lives of his servants.
14. No one incurs guilt who takes refuge in him.

Personal Reflection

As a baseline, the Our Father is the sincere perfect prayer. The Holy Mass is sincere perfect worship. Because when encountered sincerely, we are moved.

Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121625.cfm

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry