Today's readings present to us two different world views and modes of existence: one that tries to see itself as completely independent of God or the idea of God and boasts that anything good can be achieved through merely human means and abilities, and one that rather acknowledges God and the generous blessings he has bestowed on all creation, having brought it forth from nothing out of his great love, with a purpose and a relationship in mind.
The first reading is a lamentation against Assyria, a powerful and ruthless nation that sought to dominate and destroy others. The prophet Isaiah speaks God's words of warning, condemning Assyria's arrogance and brutality. But he also points out that Assyria's own strength is not its own doing, but rather a gift from God. The Lord has given Assyria its power, and yet Assyria uses that power for evil purposes.
This reading reminds us that true power is not about our own abilities or achievements, but about the gifts and blessings we receive from God and how we use them to extend mercy and help to others. The reading also reminds us that God holds us accountable for how we use those gifts. We must ask ourselves: are we using our talents, abilities, and resources for good or for selfish purposes?
In contrast, Jesus' prayer in the Gospel is one of praise and gratitude to His Father, our Father. He thanks the Father for revealing his mysteries to the humble and childlike, rather than to the wise and learned. Jesus acknowledges that in his human nature, he has received all things from his Father, and that he has been entrusted with a special mission.
This Gospel reminds us of the importance of humility and dependence on God. It reminds us that true wisdom and understanding come from our relationship with God. Jesus is not boasting about his own power or achievements, but rather giving praise to the Father for all that he has given him. When Jesus utilized parables, more often than not, unless one humbled himself to take the time to ponder what exactly Jesus was getting at, they would miss the point entirely. It would remain gibberish to the proud and the arrogant. Hence the necessity of humility when dealing with the things of God. Our Blessed Mother, Mary, is quite different from the instinctive kind of person who dismisses what is difficult to understand. She allowed the words of the Angel, and those of the prophet Simeon to brew in her heart. She pondered all the words of the Lord that were delivered to her by chosen messengers.
As we reflect on these readings, let us ask ourselves: are we using our gifts and talents for the greater good, or are we seeking to elevate ourselves above others? Are we seeking wisdom and understanding from God, or do we rely on our own human reasoning? Are we humble enough to listen to those whom God will send us in our lives, who speak his word to us, a word we can ponder in our hearts like Mary?
May we be mindful of the warnings against Assyria's arrogance, and may we instead seek to follow Jesus' example of humility and gratitude. May we be people who use our gifts for good, and who seek wisdom and understanding from above, acknowledging him and thanking him, for the boundless
mercies and blessings he continually lavishes upon us and the whole world.
Eternal Father, I offer you the body, blood, soul and divinity of your dearly beloved Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world. Mary, Mother of Mercy, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Amen.
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