Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 150
Lectionary: 150
The LORD is a God of justice,
who knows no favorites.
Though not unduly partial toward the weak,
yet he hears the cry of the oppressed.
The Lord is not deaf to the wail of the orphan,
nor to the widow when she pours out her complaint.
The one who serves God willingly is heard;
his petition reaches the heavens.
The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds;
it does not rest till it reaches its goal,
nor will it withdraw till the Most High responds,
judges justly and affirms the right,
and the Lord will not delay.
who knows no favorites.
Though not unduly partial toward the weak,
yet he hears the cry of the oppressed.
The Lord is not deaf to the wail of the orphan,
nor to the widow when she pours out her complaint.
The one who serves God willingly is heard;
his petition reaches the heavens.
The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds;
it does not rest till it reaches its goal,
nor will it withdraw till the Most High responds,
judges justly and affirms the right,
and the Lord will not delay.
Responsorial
PsalmPS 34:2-3, 17-18, 19, 23
R. (7a) The
Lord hears the cry of the poor.
I will bless the LORD at all times;
his praise shall be ever in my mouth.
Let my soul glory in the LORD;
the lowly will hear me and be glad.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
The LORD confronts the evildoers,
to destroy remembrance of them from the earth.
When the just cry out, the Lord hears them,
and from all their distress he rescues them.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted;
and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.
The LORD redeems the lives of his servants;
no one incurs guilt who takes refuge in him.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
I will bless the LORD at all times;
his praise shall be ever in my mouth.
Let my soul glory in the LORD;
the lowly will hear me and be glad.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
The LORD confronts the evildoers,
to destroy remembrance of them from the earth.
When the just cry out, the Lord hears them,
and from all their distress he rescues them.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted;
and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.
The LORD redeems the lives of his servants;
no one incurs guilt who takes refuge in him.
R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
Reading 22 TM 4:6-8, 16-18
Beloved:
I am already being poured out like a libation,
and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have competed well; I have finished the race;
I have kept the faith.
From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me,
which the Lord, the just judge,
will award to me on that day, and not only to me,
but to all who have longed for his appearance.
At my first defense no one appeared on my behalf,
but everyone deserted me.
May it not be held against them!
But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength,
so that through me the proclamation might be completed
and all the Gentiles might hear it.
And I was rescued from the lion's mouth.
The Lord will rescue me from every evil threat
and will bring me safe to his heavenly kingdom.
To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.
I am already being poured out like a libation,
and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have competed well; I have finished the race;
I have kept the faith.
From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me,
which the Lord, the just judge,
will award to me on that day, and not only to me,
but to all who have longed for his appearance.
At my first defense no one appeared on my behalf,
but everyone deserted me.
May it not be held against them!
But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength,
so that through me the proclamation might be completed
and all the Gentiles might hear it.
And I was rescued from the lion's mouth.
The Lord will rescue me from every evil threat
and will bring me safe to his heavenly kingdom.
To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Alleluia2 COR 5:19
R. Alleluia,
alleluia.
God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ,
and entrusting to us the message of salvation.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ,
and entrusting to us the message of salvation.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GospelLK 18:9-14
Jesus addressed this parable
to those who were convinced of their own righteousness
and despised everyone else.
“Two people went up to the temple area to pray;
one was a Pharisee and the other was a tax collector.
The Pharisee took up his position and spoke this prayer to himself,
‘O God, I thank you that I am not like the rest of humanity --
greedy, dishonest, adulterous -- or even like this tax collector.
I fast twice a week, and I pay tithes on my whole income.’
But the tax collector stood off at a distance
and would not even raise his eyes to heaven
but beat his breast and prayed,
‘O God, be merciful to me a sinner.’
I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former;
for whoever exalts himself will be humbled,
and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
to those who were convinced of their own righteousness
and despised everyone else.
“Two people went up to the temple area to pray;
one was a Pharisee and the other was a tax collector.
The Pharisee took up his position and spoke this prayer to himself,
‘O God, I thank you that I am not like the rest of humanity --
greedy, dishonest, adulterous -- or even like this tax collector.
I fast twice a week, and I pay tithes on my whole income.’
But the tax collector stood off at a distance
and would not even raise his eyes to heaven
but beat his breast and prayed,
‘O God, be merciful to me a sinner.’
I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former;
for whoever exalts himself will be humbled,
and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
30th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Cycle C
Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended that the reader look up and read that passage.
1st Reading - Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18
Jesus Ben Sirach, the wise and perceptive scribe of Jerusalem, writes movingly of the chief loves of his life: the Law and the Temple liturgy. He also shows a touching devotion to the great figures of Israel’s past. He gives us a pithy collection of reflections, mostly on worldly wisdom, good behavior, tact and good sense. But he insists that Wisdom comes from God, mediated through the Law. He always has death, the moment of reckoning, before his eyes, though he gives no clear teaching about the after-life or what the reward for good works will be.
The “Wisdom of Ben Sirach” was originally written in Hebrew, but, as the forward says, it was translated into Greek by the author’s grandson in 132 B.C. Jesus Ben Sirach wrote about 190-180 B.C. Sirach is the only book of Holy Scripture which contains a forward (which is not considered inspired).
12 For he is a God of justice, who knows no favorites. 13 Though not unduly partial toward the weak, yet he hears the cry of the oppressed.
The poor and powerless enjoy a special love and concern of the Lord.
14 He is not deaf to the wail of the orphan, nor to the widow when she pours out her complaint;
God hears the cry of the poor, the orphan, the widows Bthese are privileged characters in the Bible (see Exodus 22:21-23, Deuteronomy 24:17-18; Proverbs 23:10-11.
16 He who serves God willingly is heard;
“Willingly” is the key word – service because of duty, obligation, or habit is not sufficient – it must be willing service.
his petition reaches the heavens. 17 The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal, 18 Nor will it withdraw till the Most High responds,
“It” is the prayer of the lowly, the humble.
judges justly and affirms the right.
2nd Reading - 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18
Today we wind up our study of 2nd Timothy as we hear Paul’s closing remarks. Recall that this letter is written as instruction and encouragement to Timothy, whom Paul installed as Bishop of Ephesus. Timothy has been having difficulties with false teachers and Paul provides pastoral guidance while he himself is held prisoner in Rome. This letter is believed to have been written in A.D. 67 with Paul being martyred in A.D. 67 or 68. The place of his martyrdom in local Roman tradition is the site of the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. Since he was a Roman citizen, the mode of execution according to the same tradition was decapitation
6 For I am already being poured out like a libation,
A libation is a sacrificial rite in which a liquid (usually wine or oil) was poured out on the altar.
and the time of my departure is at hand.
Paul’s death is near at hand. He is handing on his legacy to Timothy and other future leaders.
7 I have competed well; I have finished the race;
Paul’s letters are full of athletic imagery: races, fights, etc. These images are used to exhort the reader to keep his attention focused on the prize which goes to the winner; the victor’s crown which is awarded by the chief judge.
I have kept the faith.
Paul has preserved and guarded the deposit of faith.
8 From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award to me on that day,
The parousia, the day of judgment
and not only to me, but to all who have longed for his appearance.
All who out of love for Christ have lived a Christian life as a preparation for their appearance at the judgment.
16 At my first defense no one appeared on my behalf, but everyone deserted me.
It is possible that Paul is referring to his Roman house arrest, but more likely he alludes to a first hearing in his present trial.
“Story has it that the apostle, after defending himself, was again sent upon the ministry of preaching and coming a second time to the same city met death by martyrdom under Nero. While he was being held in prison, he composed the second epistle to Timothy, at the same time indicating that his first defense had taken place and that martyrdom was at hand.” [Eusebius Pamphilus of Caesarea (between A.D. 300-325), History of the Church 2,22]
May it not be held against them! 17 But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the proclamation might be completed and all the Gentiles might hear it.
Assuming that the first hearing was at his present trial, Paul was successful in preaching the Gospel before the judges and all those present for the occasion.
And I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.
A biblical image (Psalm 22:21; Daniel 6:22).
18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil threat
Paul is not referring to release from his present imprisonment, he will be rescued for the heavenly kingdom.
and will bring me safe to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Gospel - Luke 18:9-14
As we proceed from our gospel reading last week which presented Jesus’ first parable on prayer, we now hear the second parable on prayer. Recall that the question has often been put to Jesus “When and how will the end come?” Jesus’ answer is always that we are to persevere in prayer and humility. These two parables (the one we heard last week and this one) appear only in Luke and in this one we are reminded that our virtuous works what we are proud of will not earn us entrance into God’s kingdom.
9 He [Jesus] then addressed this parable to those who were convinced of their own righteousness and despised everyone else. 10 “Two people went up to the temple area to pray;
The hours of prayer were 9 A.M. and 3 P.M.
one was a Pharisee and the other was a tax collector.
The Pharisees were completely “just” before the Law, that is why they had such confidence in themselves. Tax collectors were always considered to be sinners.
11 The Pharisee took up his position and spoke this prayer to himself, ‘O God, I thank you that I am not like the rest of humanity – greedy, dishonest, adulterous – or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week, and I pay tithes on my whole income.’
The Pharisee carefully spells out why he is just, just in case God hadn’t noticed.
13 But the tax collector stood off at a distance and would not even raise his eyes to heaven but beat his breast
A sign of repentance and mourning
and prayed, ‘O God, be merciful to me a sinner.’ 14 I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
The tax collector is forgiven of his sins because of his humble repentance. He has recognized his need of God’s mercy and has shown sorrow for his sins. The Pharisee, however, does not need God’s justification because he has justified himself (once saved, always saved?).
Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended that the reader look up and read that passage.
1st Reading - Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18
Jesus Ben Sirach, the wise and perceptive scribe of Jerusalem, writes movingly of the chief loves of his life: the Law and the Temple liturgy. He also shows a touching devotion to the great figures of Israel’s past. He gives us a pithy collection of reflections, mostly on worldly wisdom, good behavior, tact and good sense. But he insists that Wisdom comes from God, mediated through the Law. He always has death, the moment of reckoning, before his eyes, though he gives no clear teaching about the after-life or what the reward for good works will be.
The “Wisdom of Ben Sirach” was originally written in Hebrew, but, as the forward says, it was translated into Greek by the author’s grandson in 132 B.C. Jesus Ben Sirach wrote about 190-180 B.C. Sirach is the only book of Holy Scripture which contains a forward (which is not considered inspired).
12 For he is a God of justice, who knows no favorites. 13 Though not unduly partial toward the weak, yet he hears the cry of the oppressed.
The poor and powerless enjoy a special love and concern of the Lord.
14 He is not deaf to the wail of the orphan, nor to the widow when she pours out her complaint;
God hears the cry of the poor, the orphan, the widows Bthese are privileged characters in the Bible (see Exodus 22:21-23, Deuteronomy 24:17-18; Proverbs 23:10-11.
16 He who serves God willingly is heard;
“Willingly” is the key word – service because of duty, obligation, or habit is not sufficient – it must be willing service.
his petition reaches the heavens. 17 The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal, 18 Nor will it withdraw till the Most High responds,
“It” is the prayer of the lowly, the humble.
judges justly and affirms the right.
2nd Reading - 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18
Today we wind up our study of 2nd Timothy as we hear Paul’s closing remarks. Recall that this letter is written as instruction and encouragement to Timothy, whom Paul installed as Bishop of Ephesus. Timothy has been having difficulties with false teachers and Paul provides pastoral guidance while he himself is held prisoner in Rome. This letter is believed to have been written in A.D. 67 with Paul being martyred in A.D. 67 or 68. The place of his martyrdom in local Roman tradition is the site of the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. Since he was a Roman citizen, the mode of execution according to the same tradition was decapitation
6 For I am already being poured out like a libation,
A libation is a sacrificial rite in which a liquid (usually wine or oil) was poured out on the altar.
and the time of my departure is at hand.
Paul’s death is near at hand. He is handing on his legacy to Timothy and other future leaders.
7 I have competed well; I have finished the race;
Paul’s letters are full of athletic imagery: races, fights, etc. These images are used to exhort the reader to keep his attention focused on the prize which goes to the winner; the victor’s crown which is awarded by the chief judge.
I have kept the faith.
Paul has preserved and guarded the deposit of faith.
8 From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award to me on that day,
The parousia, the day of judgment
and not only to me, but to all who have longed for his appearance.
All who out of love for Christ have lived a Christian life as a preparation for their appearance at the judgment.
16 At my first defense no one appeared on my behalf, but everyone deserted me.
It is possible that Paul is referring to his Roman house arrest, but more likely he alludes to a first hearing in his present trial.
“Story has it that the apostle, after defending himself, was again sent upon the ministry of preaching and coming a second time to the same city met death by martyrdom under Nero. While he was being held in prison, he composed the second epistle to Timothy, at the same time indicating that his first defense had taken place and that martyrdom was at hand.” [Eusebius Pamphilus of Caesarea (between A.D. 300-325), History of the Church 2,22]
May it not be held against them! 17 But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the proclamation might be completed and all the Gentiles might hear it.
Assuming that the first hearing was at his present trial, Paul was successful in preaching the Gospel before the judges and all those present for the occasion.
And I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.
A biblical image (Psalm 22:21; Daniel 6:22).
18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil threat
Paul is not referring to release from his present imprisonment, he will be rescued for the heavenly kingdom.
and will bring me safe to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Gospel - Luke 18:9-14
As we proceed from our gospel reading last week which presented Jesus’ first parable on prayer, we now hear the second parable on prayer. Recall that the question has often been put to Jesus “When and how will the end come?” Jesus’ answer is always that we are to persevere in prayer and humility. These two parables (the one we heard last week and this one) appear only in Luke and in this one we are reminded that our virtuous works what we are proud of will not earn us entrance into God’s kingdom.
9 He [Jesus] then addressed this parable to those who were convinced of their own righteousness and despised everyone else. 10 “Two people went up to the temple area to pray;
The hours of prayer were 9 A.M. and 3 P.M.
one was a Pharisee and the other was a tax collector.
The Pharisees were completely “just” before the Law, that is why they had such confidence in themselves. Tax collectors were always considered to be sinners.
11 The Pharisee took up his position and spoke this prayer to himself, ‘O God, I thank you that I am not like the rest of humanity – greedy, dishonest, adulterous – or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week, and I pay tithes on my whole income.’
The Pharisee carefully spells out why he is just, just in case God hadn’t noticed.
13 But the tax collector stood off at a distance and would not even raise his eyes to heaven but beat his breast
A sign of repentance and mourning
and prayed, ‘O God, be merciful to me a sinner.’ 14 I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
The tax collector is forgiven of his sins because of his humble repentance. He has recognized his need of God’s mercy and has shown sorrow for his sins. The Pharisee, however, does not need God’s justification because he has justified himself (once saved, always saved?).
www.scborromeo.org
Meditation: "God, be merciful
to me a sinner!"
How can we know if our prayer is pleasing to God or not? The prophet Hosea,
who spoke in God's name, said: "I desire steadfast love and not
sacrifice" (Hosea 6:6). The prayers and sacrifices we make to God mean
nothing to him if they do not spring from a heart of love for God and for one's
neighbor. How can we expect God to hear our prayers if we do not approach him
with humility and with a contrite heart that seeks mercy and forgiveness? We
stand in constant need of God's grace and help. That is why Scripture tells us
that "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble" (James
4:6; Proverbs 3:34).
God hears the prayer of
the humble
Jesus reinforced this warning with a vivid story of two people at prayer. Why did the Lord accept one person's prayer and reject the other's prayer? Luke gives us a hint: despising one's neighbor closes the door to God's heart. Expressing disdain and contempt for others is more than being mean-minded. It springs from the assumption that one is qualified to sit in the seat of judgment and to publicly shame those who do not conform to our standards and religious practices. Jesus' story caused offense to the religious-minded Pharisees who regarded "tax collectors" as unworthy of God's grace and favor. How could Jesus put down a "religious person" and raise up a "public sinner"?
Jesus reinforced this warning with a vivid story of two people at prayer. Why did the Lord accept one person's prayer and reject the other's prayer? Luke gives us a hint: despising one's neighbor closes the door to God's heart. Expressing disdain and contempt for others is more than being mean-minded. It springs from the assumption that one is qualified to sit in the seat of judgment and to publicly shame those who do not conform to our standards and religious practices. Jesus' story caused offense to the religious-minded Pharisees who regarded "tax collectors" as unworthy of God's grace and favor. How could Jesus put down a "religious person" and raise up a "public sinner"?
Jesus' parable speaks
about the nature of prayer and our relationship with God. It does this by
contrasting two very different attitudes towards prayer. The Pharisee, who
represented those who take pride in their religious practices, exalted himself
at the expense of others. Absorbed with his own sense of self-satisfaction and
self-congratulation, his boastful prayer was centered on his good religious practices
rather than on God's goodness, grace, and pardon. Rather than humbling himself
before God and asking for God's mercy and help, this man praised himself while
despising those he thought less worthy. The Pharisee tried to justify himself
before God and before those he despised; but only God can justify us. The tax
collector, who represented those despised by religious-minded people, humbled
himself before God and begged for mercy. His prayer was heard by God because he
had true sorrow for his sins. He sought God with humility rather than with
pride.
The humble recognize
their need for God's mercy and help
This parable presents both an opportunity and a warning. Pride leads to self-deception and spiritual blindness. True humility helps us to see ourselves as we really are in God's eyes and it inclines us to seek God's help and mercy. God dwells with the humble of heart who recognize their own sinfulness and who acknowledge God's mercy and saving grace. I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and humble spirit (Isaiah 57:15). God cannot hear us if we boast in ourselves and despise others. Do you humbly seek God's mercy and do you show mercy to others, especially those you find difficult to love and to forgive?
This parable presents both an opportunity and a warning. Pride leads to self-deception and spiritual blindness. True humility helps us to see ourselves as we really are in God's eyes and it inclines us to seek God's help and mercy. God dwells with the humble of heart who recognize their own sinfulness and who acknowledge God's mercy and saving grace. I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and humble spirit (Isaiah 57:15). God cannot hear us if we boast in ourselves and despise others. Do you humbly seek God's mercy and do you show mercy to others, especially those you find difficult to love and to forgive?
"Lord Jesus, may
your love and truth transform my life - my inner thoughts, intentions, and
attitudes, and my outward behavior, speech, and actions. Where I lack charity,
kindness, and forbearance, help me to embrace your merciful love and to seek
the good of my neighbor, even those who cause me ill-favor or offense. May I
always love as you have loved and forgive others as you have forgiven."
Daily Quote from the
early church fathers: The medicine of repentance, by
Augustine of Hippo, 354-430 A.D.
"How useful and
necessary a medicine is repentance! People who remember that they are only
human will readily understand this. It is written, 'God resists the proud, but
gives grace to the humble' (1 Peter 5:5, James 4:6, Job 22:29, Proverbs 3:34).
The Pharisee was not rejoicing so much in his own clean bill of health as in
comparing it with the diseases of others. He came to the doctor. It would have
been more worthwhile to inform him by confession of the things that were wrong
with himself instead of keeping his wounds secret and having the nerve to crow
over the scars of others. It is not surprising that the tax collector went away
cured, since he had not been ashamed of showing where he felt pain." (excerpt from Sermon
351.1)
THIRTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23, LUKE 18:9-14
(Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18; Psalm 34; 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18)
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23, LUKE 18:9-14
(Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18; Psalm 34; 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18)
KEY VERSE: "The tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ (v13)
TO KNOW: After teaching his disciples on the necessity of praying with persistence (vs 1-8), Jesus told another parable on prayer, which was unique to Luke. In the story, two individuals went to the Temple to pray. The first was a Pharisee, so named "the separated ones" as they strictly avoided anything that might contaminate their adherence to the minute details of the law. This Pharisee also separated himself from others by his self-righteous attitude. He smugly depended on his virtues and did not ask pardon from God for his sins. The other man was a publican, a tax-collector. Tax-collectors were held in contempt because they collaborated with the Roman government and often over-charged their own people. Although this man had nothing to commend him, he humbly prayed for God's forgiveness of his wrongdoings. Jesus declared that this man was justified because of his honest admission of his sinfulness and need of salvation.
TO LOVE: Does my pride get in the way of serving God and others?
TO SERVE: Pray the ancient Jesus Prayer: Lord Jesus, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.
With broken heart and contrite sigh, a trembling sinner, Lord, I cry. Thy pardoning grace is rich and free, O God, be merciful to me!
Sunday 23 October 2016
Sun 23rd. 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time.
Ecclesiasticus 35:12-14, 16-19. The Lord hears the cry of the poor—Ps
32(33):2-3, 17-19, 23. 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18. Luke 18:9-14.
'Attitudes in prayer.'
When I pray, do I look at the sins of the
other or at my own failings? We see two attitudes to prayer in this parable.
The Pharisee's attitude to God was one of racking up credits for himself, such
as fasting and paying extra tax, so didn't God owe him? Then there is his
attitude towards others, especially the tax-collector; he despised him and was
arrogant, complacent and scornful of sinners. The Pharisee only compared
himself to others, congratulating himself on all he was doing, yet it was the
tax-collector who looked within himself and could see how he had failed to love
and this moved him closer to God. Pope Francis has said, 'I am a sinner on whom
the Lord has turned his gaze'. It is a phrase I take to heart, as we need this
merciful gaze if we are to continue on the journey.
ST. JOHN OF CAPISTRANO
On Oct. 23, the Catholic Church celebrates the life of Saint
John of Capistrano, a Franciscan priest whose life included a political career,
extensive missionary journeys, efforts to reunite separated Eastern Christians
with Rome and a historically important turn at military leadership.
Invoked as a patron of military chaplains, St. John of
Capistrano was praised by St. John Paul II in a 2002 general audience for his
“glorious evangelical witness,” as a priest who “gave himself with great
generosity for the salvation of souls.”
Born in Italy during 1385, John lost his father – a French
or possibly German knight who had settled in Capistrano – at a young age.
John’s mother took care to have him educated, and after learning Latin he went
to study both civil law and Church law in Perugia. An outstanding student, he
soon became a prominent public figure and was appointed governor of the city at
age 26.
John showed high standards of integrity in his civic career,
and in 1416 he labored to end a war that had erupted between Perugia and the
prominent House of Malatesta. But when the nobles had John imprisoned, he began
to question his life’s direction. Encountering Saint Francis of Assisi in a
dream, he resolved to embrace poverty, chastity, and obedience with the Franciscans.
Abandoning his possessions and social status, John joined
the religious order in October 1416. He found a mentor in Saint Bernardine of
Siena, known for his bold preaching and his method of prayer focused on the
invocation of the name of Jesus. Taking after his teacher in these respects,
John began preaching as a deacon in 1420, and was ordained a priest in 1425.
John successfully defended his mentor from a charge of
heresy made against his way of devotion, though he found less success in his
efforts to resolve internal controversy among the followers of St. Francis. A
succession of popes entrusted important matters to John, including the effort
to reunite Eastern and Western Christendom at the Ecumenical Council of
Florence.
Drawing immense crowds in his missionary travels throughout
Italy, John also found success as a preacher in Central Europe, where he
opposed the Hussites’ error regarding the nature and administration of the
Eucharist. After Constantinople fell to Turkish invaders in 1453, Pope Nicholas
V sent John on a mission to rally other European leaders in defense of their
lands.
Nicholas’ successor Pope Callixtus III was even more eager
to see the Christian world defend itself against the invading forces. When the
Sultan Mehmet II sought to extend his territorial gains into Serbia and
Hungary, John joined the celebrated general Janos Hunyadi in his defense of
Belgrade. The priest personally led a section of the army in its historic
victory on Aug. 6, 1456.
Neither John nor the general, however, would survive long
past the battle.
Weakened by the campaign against the Turks, Hunyadi became
sick and died soon after the victory at Belgrade. John survived to preach Janos
Hunyadi’s funeral sermon; but his own extraordinary life came to an end after a
painful illness, on Oct. 23, 1456. St. John of Capistrano was canonized in
1724.
LECTIO DIVINA: 30TH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME (C)
Lectio Divina:
Sunday, October 23, 2016
The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax collector
Where do I base my security?
Luke 18, 1-14
Where do I base my security?
Luke 18, 1-14
1. Opening prayer
Lord Jesus, send your Spirit to help us to read the Scriptures with the same mind that you read them to the disciples on the way to Emmaus. In the light of the Word, written in the Bible, you helped them to discover the presence of God in the disturbing events of your sentence and death. Thus, the cross that seemed to be the end of all hope became for them the source of life and of resurrection.
Create in us silence so that we may listen to your voice in Creation and in the Scriptures, in events and in people, above all in the poor and suffering. May your word guide us so that we too, like the two disciples from Emmaus, may experience the force of your resurrection and witness to others that you are alive in our midst as source of fraternity, justice and peace. We ask this of you, Jesus, son of Mary, who revealed to us the Father and sent us your Spirit. Amen.
Lord Jesus, send your Spirit to help us to read the Scriptures with the same mind that you read them to the disciples on the way to Emmaus. In the light of the Word, written in the Bible, you helped them to discover the presence of God in the disturbing events of your sentence and death. Thus, the cross that seemed to be the end of all hope became for them the source of life and of resurrection.
Create in us silence so that we may listen to your voice in Creation and in the Scriptures, in events and in people, above all in the poor and suffering. May your word guide us so that we too, like the two disciples from Emmaus, may experience the force of your resurrection and witness to others that you are alive in our midst as source of fraternity, justice and peace. We ask this of you, Jesus, son of Mary, who revealed to us the Father and sent us your Spirit. Amen.
2. Reading
a) A key to the reading:
The Gospel of this Sunday places us before the parable of
the Pharisee and the Tax collector (Lk 18, 9-14). We have added the parable of
the widow and the judge (Lk 18, 1-8), because both of these form a small unity,
the purpose of which is to help us discover what our prayerful attitude should
be before God. The two parables show us that Jesus had another way of seeing
the things of life and prayer. He succeeded to perceive a revelation of God
there where others saw only the ruins. He sees something positive in the tax
collector, of whom everybody said: “He does not know how to pray!” And in the
poor widow, of whom society said: “She disturbs and bothers even the judge!”
Jesus lived so united to the Father through prayer, that for him everything
became an expression of prayer.
Today, the simple people of the town who say that they do not know how to pray, know how to speak with Jesus, they speak with God all the time. Do you know any such persons? The people have many ways to express their devotion and their prayer.
During the reading let us try to pay attention to the two following things: Which is the objective and who are the those to whom the two parables are addressed? Which are the attitudes of the persons who are mentioned in the parables?
Today, the simple people of the town who say that they do not know how to pray, know how to speak with Jesus, they speak with God all the time. Do you know any such persons? The people have many ways to express their devotion and their prayer.
During the reading let us try to pay attention to the two following things: Which is the objective and who are the those to whom the two parables are addressed? Which are the attitudes of the persons who are mentioned in the parables?
b) A division of the text to help in the reading:
Luke 18, 1: The objective of the first parable
Luke 18, 2: Description of the attitude of the judge
Luke 18, 3: Attitude of the widow before the judge
Luke 18, 4-5: Reaction of the judge before the widow
Luke 18, 6-8: Jesus applies the parable
Luke 18, 9: Those to whom the second parable is addressed
Luke 18, 10: Introduction to the theme of the parable
Luke 18, 11-12: It describes how the Pharisee prays
Luke 18, 13: It describes how the Tax Collector prays
Luke 18, 14: Jesus gives his opinion on both
Luke 18, 2: Description of the attitude of the judge
Luke 18, 3: Attitude of the widow before the judge
Luke 18, 4-5: Reaction of the judge before the widow
Luke 18, 6-8: Jesus applies the parable
Luke 18, 9: Those to whom the second parable is addressed
Luke 18, 10: Introduction to the theme of the parable
Luke 18, 11-12: It describes how the Pharisee prays
Luke 18, 13: It describes how the Tax Collector prays
Luke 18, 14: Jesus gives his opinion on both
c) Text:
1 Then he told them a parable about the need to pray
continually and never lose heart. 2 'There was a judge in a certain town,' he
said, 'who had neither fear of God nor respect for anyone. 3 In the same town
there was also a widow who kept on coming to him and saying, "I want
justice from you against my enemy!" 4 For a long time he refused, but at
last he said to himself, "Even though I have neither fear of God nor
respect for any human person, 5 I must give this widow her just rights since
she keeps pestering me, or she will come and slap me in the face." ' 6 And
the Lord said, 'You notice what the unjust judge has to say? 7 Now, will not
God see justice done to his elect if they keep calling to him day and night
even though he still delays to help them? 8 I promise you, he will see justice
done to them, and done speedily. But when the Son of man comes, will he find
any faith on earth?' 9 He spoke the following parable to some people who prided
themselves on being upright and despised everyone else, 10 'Two men went up to
the Temple to pray, one a Pharisee, the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee
stood there and said this prayer to himself, "I thank you, God, that I am
not grasping, unjust, adulterous like everyone else, and particularly that I am
not like this tax collector here. 12 I fast twice a week; I pay tithes on all I
get." 13 The tax collector stood some distance away, not daring even to
raise his eyes to heaven; but he beat his breast and said, "God, be
merciful to me, a sinner." 14 This man, I tell you, went home again
justified; the other did not. For everyone who raises himself up will be
humbled, but anyone who humbles himself will be raised up.'
3. A moment of prayerful silence
so that the Word of God may penetrate and enlighten our
life.
4. Some questions
to help us in our personal reflection.
a) Which point pleased you the most in both of these
parable? Why?
b) Which is the attitude of the widow and of the judge? What is it that strikes the most in the attitude of the each one of them? Why?
c) Which are the attitudes of the Pharisee and of the Tax Collector? What strikes us the most in the attitude of each one of them? Why?
d) How does Jesus apply this parable?
e) What do these two parables teach us concerning prayer?
b) Which is the attitude of the widow and of the judge? What is it that strikes the most in the attitude of the each one of them? Why?
c) Which are the attitudes of the Pharisee and of the Tax Collector? What strikes us the most in the attitude of each one of them? Why?
d) How does Jesus apply this parable?
e) What do these two parables teach us concerning prayer?
5. For those who wish to deepen more into the theme
a) The context of yesterday and of today
The context of the time of Jesus and of Luke is expressed in
the two phrases of introduction which speak about the ‘need to pray continually
and not lose heart” (Lk 18, 1) and of ‘some who boasted of being just and
despised others’ (Lk 18, 9). The context of today continues to be the same as
before, because also today it is necessary to pray always and today also there
are persons who boast of being just and who despise others.
b) Comment on the text:
Luke 18, 1: The objective of the first parable
Luke introduces this parable with the phrase: “on the need to pray continually and never lose heart”. In other passages he insists in the same way on perseverance in prayer and on the need to believe that God hears our prayer and responds to our petitions. Faith in God which responds to our petitions is the red thread which pervades the whole Bible, where, from Exodus it is ceaselessly repeated that “Go hears the cry of His People” (Ex 2, 24; 3, 7).
Luke introduces this parable with the phrase: “on the need to pray continually and never lose heart”. In other passages he insists in the same way on perseverance in prayer and on the need to believe that God hears our prayer and responds to our petitions. Faith in God which responds to our petitions is the red thread which pervades the whole Bible, where, from Exodus it is ceaselessly repeated that “Go hears the cry of His People” (Ex 2, 24; 3, 7).
Luke 18, 2: Description of the attitude of the Judge
Jesus wishes to clarify for those who listen to him, which is the attitude of God before our prayer. For this, in speaking of the judge, he thinks of God the Father who is the end of the comparison which he is making. If it were not Jesus, we would not have the courage to compare God with a judge “who neither has fear of God nor respect for anyone”. This audacious comparison, made by Jesus himself, strengthens, on the one hand, the importance of perseverance in prayer and, on the other, the certainty of being heard by God the Father.
Jesus wishes to clarify for those who listen to him, which is the attitude of God before our prayer. For this, in speaking of the judge, he thinks of God the Father who is the end of the comparison which he is making. If it were not Jesus, we would not have the courage to compare God with a judge “who neither has fear of God nor respect for anyone”. This audacious comparison, made by Jesus himself, strengthens, on the one hand, the importance of perseverance in prayer and, on the other, the certainty of being heard by God the Father.
Luke 18, 3: The attitude of the widow before the judge
In the attitude of the widow before the judge we have the situation of the poor in society at the time of Jesus. Widows and orphans had no one to defend them and their rights were not respected. The fact that Jesus compares our attitude with that of the poor widow, without anyone to defend her, who seeks to claim her rights before a judge who has no human sensibility, shows Jesus’ sympathy for poor persons who insistently struggle to claim their rights.
In the attitude of the widow before the judge we have the situation of the poor in society at the time of Jesus. Widows and orphans had no one to defend them and their rights were not respected. The fact that Jesus compares our attitude with that of the poor widow, without anyone to defend her, who seeks to claim her rights before a judge who has no human sensibility, shows Jesus’ sympathy for poor persons who insistently struggle to claim their rights.
Luke 18, 4-5: The reaction of the judge before the
widow
The judge ends by giving in before the insistence of the widow. He does justice not out of love for justice, but in order to free himself from the widow who continually pesters him.
The judge ends by giving in before the insistence of the widow. He does justice not out of love for justice, but in order to free himself from the widow who continually pesters him.
Luke 18, 6-8: Jesus applies the parable
Jesus draws the conclusion: If an atheistic and dishonest judge pays attention to a widow who insists on her petition, how much more will God, the Father, listen to those who pray to him night and day, even if he makes them wait. This is the central point of the parable, confirmed by the final question of Jesus: “When the Son of man comes, will he find any faith on earth?· That is, will our faith be so persistent as that of the widow, who resists without losing heart, until she obtains God’s answer? Because as the Ecclesiasticus says: “It is difficult to resist the expectation of God!”
Jesus draws the conclusion: If an atheistic and dishonest judge pays attention to a widow who insists on her petition, how much more will God, the Father, listen to those who pray to him night and day, even if he makes them wait. This is the central point of the parable, confirmed by the final question of Jesus: “When the Son of man comes, will he find any faith on earth?· That is, will our faith be so persistent as that of the widow, who resists without losing heart, until she obtains God’s answer? Because as the Ecclesiasticus says: “It is difficult to resist the expectation of God!”
Luke 18, 9: Those to whom the second parable is
addressed
This second parable of the Pharisee and the Tax collector is introduced in the second phrase: “He spoke the following parable to some people who prided themselves on being upright and despised everyone else!” The phrase of Luke refers simultaneously, to the time of Jesus and to the time of Luke. Then, in the communities of the years 80’s, to whom Luke addressed his Gospel, there were some holding fast to the ancient tradition of Judaism which despised those who lived in Paganism (cf. Acts 15, 1, 5).
This second parable of the Pharisee and the Tax collector is introduced in the second phrase: “He spoke the following parable to some people who prided themselves on being upright and despised everyone else!” The phrase of Luke refers simultaneously, to the time of Jesus and to the time of Luke. Then, in the communities of the years 80’s, to whom Luke addressed his Gospel, there were some holding fast to the ancient tradition of Judaism which despised those who lived in Paganism (cf. Acts 15, 1, 5).
Luke 18, 10: This introduces the theme of the parable
Two men went up to the Temple to pray: one was a Pharisee and the other a Tax collector. There could be no greater contrast between these two. In the opinion of the people of that time, a tax collector was worth nothing and could not address himself to God, because he was an impure person, in so far as a tax collector, while the Pharisee was an honoured person and a very religious one.
Two men went up to the Temple to pray: one was a Pharisee and the other a Tax collector. There could be no greater contrast between these two. In the opinion of the people of that time, a tax collector was worth nothing and could not address himself to God, because he was an impure person, in so far as a tax collector, while the Pharisee was an honoured person and a very religious one.
Luke 18, 11-12: It describes how the Pharisee prays
The Pharisee prays standing up and thanks God because he is not like others: thieves, dishonest, adulterous. His prayer is nothing else than praising himself and the things he does: he fasts and pays tithes on all he gets. It is an exaltation of his good qualities and the contempt of others, whom he despises, especially the tax collector who is together with him in the same place. He does not consider him as his brother.
The Pharisee prays standing up and thanks God because he is not like others: thieves, dishonest, adulterous. His prayer is nothing else than praising himself and the things he does: he fasts and pays tithes on all he gets. It is an exaltation of his good qualities and the contempt of others, whom he despises, especially the tax collector who is together with him in the same place. He does not consider him as his brother.
Luke 18, 13: It describes how the tax collector prays
The tax collector does not dare even to raise his eyes, but he beats his heart and says: “My God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” He takeshis place before God.
The tax collector does not dare even to raise his eyes, but he beats his heart and says: “My God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” He takeshis place before God.
Luke 18, 14: Jesus gives his opinion on both parables
If Jesus had asked the people, who returned home justified, all would have answered: “The Pharisee!” But Jesus thinks differently. The one who returns justified (in a good relationship with God) is not the Pharisee, but rather the tax collector. Once again, Jesus turns everything the other way round. Perhaps this application made by Jesus of the parable did not please many persons.
If Jesus had asked the people, who returned home justified, all would have answered: “The Pharisee!” But Jesus thinks differently. The one who returns justified (in a good relationship with God) is not the Pharisee, but rather the tax collector. Once again, Jesus turns everything the other way round. Perhaps this application made by Jesus of the parable did not please many persons.
c) Extending the information:
i) The first Christians present us with an image of
Jesus praying, who lived in permanent union with the Father. The breathing
of the life of Jesus was to do God’s Will (Jn 5, 19). Jesus prayed very much
and insisted so that the people and his disciples also pray. Because it is in
our relation with God that truth emerges and that the person finds herself in
all reality and humility.
ii) The two parables reveal something of the prayerful attitude of Jesus before the Father. They reveal that even for Him it was not always easy. Like the widow you must insist very much, as it is also seen in the prayer made in the Garden of Olives (Lk 22, 41-42). He insisted up until death, He did not lose heart and he was heard (Hb 5, 7). The two parables also reveal his experience and intimacy with God as Father who accepts all and whose love has gratuity as a central mark. God’s love for us does not depend on what we do for Him. He has loved us first. He accepts the tax collector.
iii) Luke is the Evangelist who gives us more information about the life of prayer of Jesus. He presents Jesus in constant prayer. The following are some moments in which Jesus appears in prayer in the Gospel of Luke:
* When he is twelve years old, he goes to the Temple, to the house of the Father (Lk 2, 46-50).
* At the moment of being baptised and of assuming his mission, he prays (Lk 3, 21).
* When he begins his mission, he spends forty days in the desert (Lk 4, 1-2).
* In the hour of temptation, he faces the Devil with the texts from Scripture (Lk 4, 3-12).
* Jesus usually participates in the celebrations in the Synagogue on Saturday (Lk 4, 16).
* He seeks solitude in the desert to pray (Lk 5, 16; 9, 18).
* Before choosing the twelve apostles, he spends the night in prayer (Lk 6, 12)
* He prays before meals (Lk 9, 16; 24, 30).
* Before speaking about reality and of his passion, he prays (Lk 9, 18)
* In time of crisis, on the Mountain to pray and he is transfigured while he prays (Lk 9, 28)
* In revealing the Gospel to the little ones, he says: “Father, I thank you!” (Lk 10, 21)
* In praying, he awaken in the Apostles the will to pray (Lk 11, 1).
* He prays for Peter so that he may be strong in faith (Lk 22, 32).
* He celebrates the Passover Supper with his disciples (Lk 22, 7-14).
* In the Garden of Olives, he prays, and sweat becomes drops of blood (Lk 22, 41-42).
* In the anguish of the agony he asks his friends to pray with him (Lk 22, 40.46).
* At the hour of being nailed on the cross, he asks pardon for those who do not know what they are doing (Lk 23, 34).
* In the hour of death, he says: “Into your hands I commend my spirit!” (Lk 23, 46; Ps 31, 6).
ii) The two parables reveal something of the prayerful attitude of Jesus before the Father. They reveal that even for Him it was not always easy. Like the widow you must insist very much, as it is also seen in the prayer made in the Garden of Olives (Lk 22, 41-42). He insisted up until death, He did not lose heart and he was heard (Hb 5, 7). The two parables also reveal his experience and intimacy with God as Father who accepts all and whose love has gratuity as a central mark. God’s love for us does not depend on what we do for Him. He has loved us first. He accepts the tax collector.
iii) Luke is the Evangelist who gives us more information about the life of prayer of Jesus. He presents Jesus in constant prayer. The following are some moments in which Jesus appears in prayer in the Gospel of Luke:
* When he is twelve years old, he goes to the Temple, to the house of the Father (Lk 2, 46-50).
* At the moment of being baptised and of assuming his mission, he prays (Lk 3, 21).
* When he begins his mission, he spends forty days in the desert (Lk 4, 1-2).
* In the hour of temptation, he faces the Devil with the texts from Scripture (Lk 4, 3-12).
* Jesus usually participates in the celebrations in the Synagogue on Saturday (Lk 4, 16).
* He seeks solitude in the desert to pray (Lk 5, 16; 9, 18).
* Before choosing the twelve apostles, he spends the night in prayer (Lk 6, 12)
* He prays before meals (Lk 9, 16; 24, 30).
* Before speaking about reality and of his passion, he prays (Lk 9, 18)
* In time of crisis, on the Mountain to pray and he is transfigured while he prays (Lk 9, 28)
* In revealing the Gospel to the little ones, he says: “Father, I thank you!” (Lk 10, 21)
* In praying, he awaken in the Apostles the will to pray (Lk 11, 1).
* He prays for Peter so that he may be strong in faith (Lk 22, 32).
* He celebrates the Passover Supper with his disciples (Lk 22, 7-14).
* In the Garden of Olives, he prays, and sweat becomes drops of blood (Lk 22, 41-42).
* In the anguish of the agony he asks his friends to pray with him (Lk 22, 40.46).
* At the hour of being nailed on the cross, he asks pardon for those who do not know what they are doing (Lk 23, 34).
* In the hour of death, he says: “Into your hands I commend my spirit!” (Lk 23, 46; Ps 31, 6).
iv) This long list indicates everything which follows. For
Jesus, prayer was intimately united to life, to concrete facts, to the
decisions which he had to take. In order to be faithful to the Father’s
project, he tried to remain alone with him. He listened to him. In the
difficult and decisive moments of his life, Jesus prayed the Psalms. Just like
any pious Jew, he knew them by heart. But the recitation of the Psalms does not
take away his creativity. Rather, Jesus composed himself a Psalm which he has
transmitted to us. It is the Our Father. His life was a permanent
prayer: “I always seek the will of the Father!” (Jn 5, 19. 30). To him is
applied what the Psalm says “I am in prayer!” (Ps 109, 4).
6. Prayer of a Psalm
Psalm 146 (145): A Picture of our God
Alleluia! Praise Yahweh, my soul!
I will praise Yahweh all my life,
I will make music to my God as long as I live.
Do not put your trust in princes, in any child of Adam,
who has no power to save.
When his spirit goes forth he returns to the earth,
on that very day all his plans come to nothing.
How blessed is he who has Jacob's God to help him,
his hope is in Yahweh his God,
who made heaven and earth,
the sea and all that is in them.
He keeps faith for ever,
gives justice to the oppressed,
gives food to the hungry;
Yahweh sets prisoners free.
Yahweh gives sight to the blind,
lifts up those who are bowed down.
Yahweh protects the stranger,
he sustains the orphan and the widow.
Yahweh loves the upright,
but he frustrates the wicked.
Yahweh reigns for ever, your God, Zion,
from age to age.
I will praise Yahweh all my life,
I will make music to my God as long as I live.
Do not put your trust in princes, in any child of Adam,
who has no power to save.
When his spirit goes forth he returns to the earth,
on that very day all his plans come to nothing.
How blessed is he who has Jacob's God to help him,
his hope is in Yahweh his God,
who made heaven and earth,
the sea and all that is in them.
He keeps faith for ever,
gives justice to the oppressed,
gives food to the hungry;
Yahweh sets prisoners free.
Yahweh gives sight to the blind,
lifts up those who are bowed down.
Yahweh protects the stranger,
he sustains the orphan and the widow.
Yahweh loves the upright,
but he frustrates the wicked.
Yahweh reigns for ever, your God, Zion,
from age to age.
7. Final Prayer
Lord Jesus, we thank for the word that has enabled us to
understand better the will of the Father. May your Spirit enlighten our actions
and grant us the strength to practice that which your Word has revealed to us.
May we, like Mary, your mother, not only listen to but also practice the Word.
You who live and reign with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit forever
and ever. Amen.
Không có nhận xét nào:
Đăng nhận xét