Tuesday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Mass Readings

Our readings present us with two examples of holiness. The first is Eleazar, the elder scribe martyred for his faith in the Book of Maccabees. The other is Zacchaeus, the tax collector who converts at Jesus’ invitation. The former is the example of steadfast witness and the latter the repentant.

Sometimes when we hear Christ saying that there is more rejoicing over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who never strayed, those of us who are lifelong believers may feel as if we must stray to come back. This is not Jesus’ point. His point is understanding that each of us is a sinner in need of the gracious redemption of Christ the Lord. Eleazar remains strong because he understands the goal of his entire life is heaven and that he can persevere because of God’s gifts.

Any resentment cradle Catholics would feel toward converts must be put in this context. Sometimes we might find God’s ready acceptance of them unfair. Mercy always surpasses judgment. Zacchaeus shows this when he says that all those he cheated through tax collection will not simply be repaid, but they will be given back fourfold! Because Christ shows Him mercy, he freely surpasses the so-called fairness of justice.                 

The Rule of St. Benedict recognizes the diversity of a monastery and the capacities of everyone who lives the – eh-hem – common life(!). He says that some need less food and drink and should praise God for this. Others need more but should not be looked down upon by the strong. There are wide and diverse routes to a saintly life. It is not a reason for confusion but reason to rejoice.

Reflection by Fr. Pachomius Meade, OSB