The Kingdom Here And Now

31 Oct 2009

Today’s Readings: Rom 11:1-2.11-12.25-29, Lk 14:1.7-11

REFLECTION
In the Kingdom of God, the values, attitudes, systems and governance we are familiar with in our world today do not apply. The statement merely conveys a transition from the lower position of staying in our world to the higher position of entrance into and membership in God’s Kingdom.

There are no high or low positions in the kingdom of God God alone is king who reigns among us as we relate to one another as brothers and sisters.

People like the Pharisees, who in their self righteous ways claim for themselves such non-existing positions deserve only embarrassment and ridicule. To avoid shame, it is better to take the lowest place, for it is the initial place of every human being before God and before admittance to his Kingdom. And then one simply waits for the honor of God’s invitation to share in his banquet.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus challenges us to be humble enough to acknowledge our need to be saved, to be more accepting of other people. It is not enough to embrace people who are attractive to us nor measure up to our own standards and preferences. We are called to share our lives with the least of our brethren, even though we find them of lesser value and importance.

PRAYER
Loving Father, teach us to accept other people not on the basis of their social status, rank, title or occupation. Help us to be sincere and simple in dealing with those whom we consider outcasts of society. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.