Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Dt. 4:1-2, 6-8 | Ps. 15:2-5 | James 1:17-18, 21b-22, 27 | Mk. 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23
Each of today’s readings contains snippets of wisdom and ways to live. If we were to take time to live these words to the fullest, we would indeed be living good lives. In fact, that is what God is saying in Deuteronomy. “Take my law, as I have given it. Do not add to it, do not subtract from it, but live it fully.” Those who live this law will attract others to God. James calls us to be doers of the word and not just hearers. Hearing the Word doesn’t even change us. Hearing, responding, and acting out of the Word changes us and also brings others to live the Word. Finally, James calls the people to be kind to the widows and orphans, in other words, the poor. Jesus calls us to look at our own lives, and see what needs to be transformed before we look at the lives of others. Jesus also cautions that the door into heaven is narrow and the path is difficult. However we are also assured that if we live God’s word each day, then we will be able to enter the gate and path to heaven. Such words are the words of Wisdom for today. We are called to hear and to do. Are you ready to do so?
Today, take time to hear and read and reflect on the phrases from the scriptures. Which one catches your attention? Which one repels you the most? Choose one and ask God for help in figuring out how to live that Word in your life. Make a plan for so doing. Make a resolution to begin anew today.