Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, Priest
Readings: Jeremiah 26:1-9; Psalm 69:5, 8-10, 14; Matthew 13:54-58
Summary
Today both Jeremiah and Jesus speak the truth among people who believe they already know enough not to listen. We resist the prophet because his message is unwelcome, and we resist the Messiah because he is too familiar.
In our first reading today, all the people gathered about Jeremiah in the house of the LORD who spoke with neither eloquent speech nor flattering words. He came at the Lord’s command to Stand in the court of the house of the LORD…whatever I command you, tell them, and omit nothing. Perhaps they will listen and turn back, each from his evil way. It was to help them correct their behavior from self-destructive to fruitful worship and service.
It didn’t go well at first. The priests and prophets laid hold of him, crying, “You must be put to death!” In tomorrow’s reading we continue the story. For now we rest on the ending line: all the people gathered about Jeremiah in the house of the LORD. Jeremiah is called the “weeping prophet” because his vocation was to proclaim an unwelcome message faithfully despite almost universal opposition. He was a prophet of symbolic actions and the herald of the New Covenant to come.
Now in our gospel portion today, we have Jesus returning to Nazareth.
Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue. They were astonished and said, “Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds?
Jesus performed many miracles and signs and teachings prior to returning to Nazareth. They were aware of all that he had done.
Didn’t matter.
The grievance list:
- Is he not the carpenter’s son?
- Is not his mother named Mary and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?
- Are not his sisters all with us?
- Where did this man get all this?
They knew his résumé, so they assumed they knew him.
Whether it is the one who proclaims the promise of the New Covenant or the one who is the person of the New Covenant, we seem to not get it. The turning point I noted a few days ago, is upon us. Matthew gives us the harsh reality of our resistance. The Lord responds with even greater healings, miracles, teachings, and self-sacrifice.
The movement now accelerates in Matthew’s narrative: Book V of the Gospel of Matthew – JESUS, THE KINGDOM, AND THE CHURCH
- Friday – The Rejection at Nazareth.
- Saturday – The Death of John the Baptist.
- Sunday – The Return of the Twelve and the Feeding of the Five Thousand.
Reflection
We should weep too. And also pray as the psalmist prayed. The parables aren’t a waste of time. They are a waking up.
But I pray to you, O LORD,
for the time of your favor, O God!
In your great kindness answer me
with your constant help (Ps 69:14).
Personal Reflection
I think my prayer today is like this.
Then the boy’s father cried out, “I do believe, help my unbelief!” (Mk 9:24).
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/073126.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry