Struggle with meekness and humility

Jan Schnack of Creighton University reflects on the texts today from the Roman Catholic Lectionary with words which communicate thanksgiving in the memory of difficulty and a good life. She takes the theme of the psalmist who praises God as king as she considers the work and love of those close to her. The struggles which come with life can be, at this time of year, with the forces of nature when wind and water demonstrate power which overcomes our structures and modifies our plans. Friar Jude Winkler comments that the king who will complete the promise of a messiah for Israel will not appear as the conquering leaders of the empires of our history but will enter human history in a humble way with a universal message for all nations. Our life may also contain the struggle mentioned by Paul in his letter to the Romans between the Spirit, which calls our rational mind to decide to live in communion with God and our desire for “lower appetites” which Friar Jude notes that Augustine called concupiscence which may lead us to separation from God through sin. Our desire for sensual pleasure is strong and Paul speaks the truth that we cannot satisfy both our desire for Life in the Spirit and our desire for sensual self gratification. Jesus returns to the theme of humility and simplicity as He describes those open to the revelation of Life with He and the Father. The rest promised by Jesus is delivered as we surrender to a yoke which brings two workers together. We struggle to live in praise and thanksgiving as we realize that we are offered the invitation to be a partner with Jesus in this mission.