The texts today from the Roman CatholicLectionary remind us of the ancient understanding that the laws and ordinances
which God offers to humanity are our most fundamental guides for life. The Book
of Deuteronomy declares that the nations of the world will look to the People
of God as being blessed by a gift. Friar Jude Winkler comments that the peoples
of the ancient world were often aligned with gods of superstition who required
homage and unknown tribute from them. The greatest commandment of Deuteronomy
6:4 which calls Israel to love God with all our heart, soul and might is cited
in texts in the Christian Testament. Nate Romano, S.J. of Creighton University
who works in the court system of the United States expresses difficulty with
the praise offered today by the psalmist for laws and decrees. Our
implementation of bureaucratic law by broken humanity struggles at time to
achieve justice and satisfaction for those involved. The Law of Love which
Moses introduces offers a Divine Covenant through which we learn in
relationship with God how to fulfill the Law. The Gospel from Matthew, written
to a Jewish Christian audience, proclaims Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law.
Friar Jude explains that we are exhorted by Jesus to understand that the Law
against murder is a decree which challenges us to control our anger. Pope
Francis is exhorting Christians to find new joy in the Gospel message. DavidDean of the Atlantic School of Theology has described the methodology of
Francis as a renewal of our hearts based on our practice of being Eucharistic
communities. As we seek the transformation of the person which the Love of the
Eucharist brings we become what we are, the Body of Christ. This Body lives in
Christ and thrives in this relationship to be communities which the peoples of
the world can observe and praise God for the gift of Law Fulfilled in Action.
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