September 8 // 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reading I: Wisdom 9:13-18b
Responsorial Psalm 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14-17
Reading II: Philemon 9-10, 12-17
Gospel: Luke 14: 25-33

Today’s readings are both challenging and hopeful. Paul writes to Philemon from his prison cell to place before him an invitation to accept Onesimus as a brother and not someone to serve him in the fashion of a slave. Paul indicates a special relationship with Onesimus but is willing to share his friendship with Philemon. After Paul’s conversion to follow Jesus, he chose to be inclusive of all who crossed his path. As hard as he worked against Christians, he transferred this same passion for Jesus and all of his followers.

Are we that willing to include whomever enters our daily lives regardless of class, race, education or any other difference? What would it cost us personally to do this? Do we put ourselves in the shoes of others to see life from their perspective or do we make quick judgements about them? Take some time to ponder this question.

Then we come to today’s Gospel reading from Luke. As usual, there were crowds of people traveling with Jesus this day. Some were seeking healing while others were curious...and then there was the element of people trying to set him up or catch him violating the law. Jesus stops and speaks to them what, to our ears, is harsh and perhaps even mean-spirited. He tells them that they must HATE everyone including his family, friends and yes, even one’s own life. Do you remember, as a child, your parents telling you not to use that word HATE? It was against everything Jesus asked us not to do--and yet we have Jesus using that word and telling the people that they must do this terrible thing.

I don’t think the word ‘hate’ in Jesus’ time meant what it means today. His message is that we need to put Him as the top priority in our lives. He wants nothing or no one to stand in the way of our doing His will and following him which will always include picking up our cross daily. We all know that Jesus is love, mercy, compassion and forgiveness. However, we do need to put Him first before all else.

Sr. Barbara Baker, MHSH
Pastoral Associate