This morning's Gospel was the story of the apostles informing Jesus that they tried to keep a man from casting out demons since he was not a follower. So often I have done the same! Lord, this man is not Catholic. This woman does not attend Mass or even read the Bible. These people offend you with immoral acts. They cannot be part of us. How prideful I am! What ignorance, to think that they must love God less than I do, or that God does not value us all equally.
I remember very specifically periods when I have struggled with understanding our place in God's kingdom. We are all so different and come from various walks of life. But, in his homily this morning, Fr. Hector referenced the words of John Paul the Great, who said that we must recognize what we have in common with others rather than looking for our differences. Just think:
God created us all in His image. Male and female He created them. No person on earth does not fall into the category of a created human being.
Our first parents sinned, and thus have we all sinned. We are all fallen beings. (Except for Mary, obviously.)
The Father sent His Son to bring salvation to His people. A single drop of His blood would save the entire human race, and yet He allowed Himself to be sacrificed that we might have life. All of us have been saved.
Jesus's reply to the apostles is clear and simple:
There is no one who performs a mighty deed in My name who can at the same time speak ill of Me. For whoever is not against us is for us.
How wonderful if we could all live with an understanding of our shared inheritance as children of the Father. I definitely need to improve in this area -- locally (family, friends, acquaintances), globally, and ecumenically. Lord, give me purity of heart to see Your beautiful design in all people. Wonderful are Your works!
No comments:
Post a Comment