Choosing to avoid the risk of judgement

The texts today from the Roman Catholic Lectionary alert us to some habits which may be holding us back from being praised like the wife in Proverbs and the good and faithful servant in the Gospel from Matthew. The husband in the passage from Proverbs is identified as having achieved it all. The idea that the woman is praised for the good she can bring to her husband and household may strike us as in contrast to modern practice of being praised for our own qualities without regard to the service they provide to others. The letter to the Thessalonians reminds us  that we continue to live as children of light in the time between the resurrection and the second coming. Friar Jude Winkler explains why Paul’s audience is expecting Jesus imminent return. The “fear” of many about sudden and final judgement should not be experienced by followers of Christ who strive to live always in communion with Him. The Gospel from Matthew describes how good and faithful use of the gifts given us by God is participation, here and now, in the Kingdom of God. Tom Stegman, S.J. identifies the awe and reverence which overcomes us as we experience thanksgiving to God for our lives and the gracious gifts of Providence we know. This Biblical “fear” of the Lord which is awe and reverence is the blessing praised by the psalmist for believers who see the riches of their family, children, grandchildren and friends before their eyes. Unfortunately, like the third servant, we are “risk averse” in our life habits. We choose the safe path and avoid risking our reputation, social standing, financial security, pride, position, comfort and so on. Rev. Dr. Janet H. Hunt shares a story of overcoming the fear of judgement as she notes how the third servant was probably very aware of being in a dark place before the master returned.