Protection Persecution Penitent People Paradox

More of the paradox in the relationship of humanity and Divine is highlighted in the texts, today, from the Roman Catholic Lectionary. The story of unfaithfulness and rejection being met by tenderness and forgiveness continues as the prophet Hosea considers the actions of Israel as threats from outside loom over God’s people. The psalmist voices some of the most remorseful words from Psalm 51 which express the deep desire of the sinner for reconciliation. This psalm indicates that we always know two important realities, how we have sinned and the desire of the Divine to show us mercy as we return to an intimate relationship. The state of the world is such that many who are not responding to the Divine call for reconciliation may be the “wolves” among whom Matthew tells us Jesus sends His followers. The witness of the disciples as they endure persecution and abuse to deliver the message of forgiveness and love will see them among the marginalized as Jesus moved among those who needed to know the Divine presence in their lives. Many were healed by this experience and some were angered and terrified and they struck out to attempt to remove the stimulation. (Oremus Bible Browser Link)