Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
In the prophecy from the Book of Isaiah, a different kind of ruler is described. Unlike most of those in power at the time (and maybe even in our day), Cyrus, King of the Persians, is a leader with a conscience. After defeating Babylon, he is chosen by God to return the Jewish exiles to their own land in Jerusalem. He even provides resources to restore the Temple and the city.
St. Paul, a Pharisee much like those who test Jesus in the Gospel, is chosen by God to take the teachings of Jesus to the Gentiles. Once a persecutor of Christians, he travels widely to establish Christian communities despite hardships and ultimate martyrdom.
The common thread linking Cyrus and Paul is the virtue of love, an active choice of the will directed toward the well-being and eternal salvation of another person. Because of their humility to pursue what is right in love, God chose them as His instruments.
Reflection by Br. Jacob Kubajak, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections