Saturday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time
We end this week with two tender but powerful Scripture readings. The combination of tenderness and power is an unusual pairing for our modern sensitivities since they are normally in opposition to one another. Perhaps a closer look will strengthen our appreciation of each.
Today’s words of Moses suggest the words of a wise old grandfather who has called his entire extended family together for an important meeting. He proudly retells the stories they always love to hear about their ancestors and how they had to struggle to survive with God’s help. He is speaking from the power and authority of experience and then he turns to the children and insists that they must be taught to appreciate the abundant goodness of God. He implies that it is remembered history, personal and communal, that provides the backbone for faith in action.
Jesus in today’s Gospel makes a direct reference to the faith of the disciples in their unsuccessful attempt to cure the small boy afflicted by evil forces. The heavy demands of ministry of any kind can dilute the focus of faith. This is to say that the pressure for immediate results can sometimes override the simple but powerful acceptance that God is in charge.
Whatever seems to be a mountain that needs to be moved, can actually be reduced in size and importance. That’s possible when we calmly and firmly believe that it is God the maker of the universe and source of all merciful love who is guiding our efforts.
Reflection by Fr. Daniel Petsche, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections