What Must Be Done

Here we are coming up in a few short weeks to a cherished holy season of our church, and we are given this Ordinary Sunday’s readings to pull back and consider what must be done to follow a meaningful Christian life. The readings include a wonderful Responsorial Psalm about humility, and our Lord showing no partiality as our prayers are being uplifted to him – in fact it’s very graphic how the prayers are piercing the clouds in Sirach!  

Paul anticipates his own death in his letter to Timothy which has lines that some may think come from popular culture: “I have competed well; I have finished the race . . . .” They and others fail to see the profound message of the Christmas – and Easter – season that are offered here. Paul knows that “the crown of righteousness awaits” him. Dare I hope for the same?  

And then we get to Luke’s Gospel which shares the parable of the wealthy Pharisee and the tax collector praying. One saying they have not sinned and are not like the rest of humanity; the other praying for mercy and forgiveness for his sins. Our Lord tells us that the one who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.  This sounds so simple. This is, in fact, so hard. When have we last stood among friends and family and shared at a meal or a party all that we’ve been doing, accomplished, have yet to do so that we can catch up and perhaps get away on this incredible vacation? I know I have done this. It seems so natural.  

Lots of food for thought for us on this Ordinary Sunday!  Please enjoy this week’s readings, and may peace be with all of us!