Memorial of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, Religious
The story of the Books of Maccabees is that of the Jewish people holding on to their religious practice against a dominant culture seeking to stamp it out. Most distressing, as we find out today, is that many Jews themselves “sold out.” They figured the material benefits of taking on Greek customs and pagan worship were worth it. In fact, they rationalized that perhaps the only God, the Lord, would bless them when they did this instead of obstinately rejecting Hellenistic culture.
As Christians, Jesus tells us that while we are in this world we are not of this world. St. Paul will tell us that whatever is good, true, and beautiful in the world is honorable for Christians to praise. We must convert the culture while not being tainted by it. How does one prudently discern this?
In our gospel, we hear people speak the immortal words to the blind man of Jericho: “Jesus is passing by.” Immediately, he runs after Christ to engage him and ask for healing. As he does, so those around him in polite society shush him. The Lord stops for him, receives his faith, and cures his blindness.
How do we live in this world while not being of it? We remember that wherever we are, Jesus is passing by. Actual grace and his instruction are always available to us in time of confusion, trial, or persecution. To call on Jesus is never to impose Him, and in fact it may be the way that others turn to Him for healing. Let us not be afraid to be 100-percent Christians in our culture.
Reflection by Fr. Pachomius Meade, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections