The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary today invites contemplation of the power of truth and sincerity in our expressions of love.
Healing in community
The reading from Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians asserts that sexual immorality defiles the Church.
* [5:2] Inflated with pride: this remark and the reference to boasting in 1 Cor 5:6 suggest that they are proud of themselves despite the infection in their midst, tolerating and possibly even approving the situation. The attitude expressed in 1 Cor 6:2, 13 may be influencing their thinking in this case.1
Psalm 5 is a hymn to trust in God for deliverance from enemies.
* [Psalm 5] A lament contrasting the security of the house of God (Ps 5:8–9, 12–13) with the danger of the company of evildoers (Ps 5:5–7, 10–11). The psalmist therefore prays that God will hear (Ps 5:2–4) and grant the protection and joy of the Temple.2
In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus cures a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath.
* [6:1–11] The two episodes recounted here deal with gathering grain and healing, both of which were forbidden on the sabbath. In his defense of his disciples’ conduct and his own charitable deed, Jesus argues that satisfying human needs such as hunger and performing works of mercy take precedence even over the sacred sabbath rest. See also notes on Mt 12:1–14 and Mk 2:25–26.3
Cindy Murphy McMahon asks could there be parallels with the Gospel in the discussions over racial inequities and unrest in our nation and cities that we see and hear in the news, and know from personal experience?
There are arguments taking place, both internal and external, over whether police responding to “an incident” should emphasize unequivocal adherence to laws and commands – which sometimes results in more violence – or whether different methods of reacting to volatile situations could emphasize greater compassion and attempts at understanding. Each side of the argument asks, “What is the right thing to do?” And, for Christians, “What would Jesus do?” or “What would Jesus ask me to do?” Our society needs to seek God’s guidance as we answer those questions. Lord, we pray for our country. Bring your healing into our midst, and help us to listen for your voice before we speak or act.4
Don Schwager quotes “Jesus heals to teach the Pharisees mercy,” by Cyril of Alexandria (376-444 AD).
"The miracle sometimes converts to faith those who had disbelieved the word, but the Pharisees watched him to see if he would heal on the sabbath. The nature of an envious person is such that he makes the praises of others food for his own disease and is wickedly maddened by their reputation. Once more he spoke to this; 'he reveals deep and mysterious things; he knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with him' (Daniel 2:22). And why did he do this? Perhaps it might be to move the cruel and unpitying Pharisee to compassion. The man's malady [his withered hand] perhaps might shame them and persuade them to dispel the flames of their envy. "This question is most wise indeed and a most suitable statement to meet their folly. If it is lawful to do good on the sabbath and nothing prevents the sick being pitied by God, cease picking up opportunities for fault-finding against Christ and bringing down on your own head the sentence which the Father has decreed against those who dishonor the Son. You have heard the Father where he says of the Son by the voice of David, 'I will crush his foes before him and strike down those who hate him' (Psalm 89:23). But if it is not lawful to do good on the sabbath and the law forbids the saving of life, you have made yourself an accuser of the law." (quote from COMMENTARY ON LUKE, HOMILY 23).5
The Word Among Us Meditation on Luke 6:6-11 asks “Why was Jesus not afraid?” Because he lived in deep communion with his Father.
Today, take a few minutes to consider your relationship with your heavenly Father. In what ways might you become more aware of his love for you? How might you grow in trust so that you can follow his will, even when it puts you in an uncomfortable or hostile situation? Listening to our fears instead of trusting in our Father can close the door to what he wants to do through us. For example, if Jesus had given in to fear of what the scribes and Pharisees thought of him, that man with the withered hand may not have been healed. If Mary had allowed her concern of what others might say about her take precedence over the angel Gabriel’s words, she might not have said yes to becoming Jesus’ mother.6
Friar Jude Winkler connects the excommunication recommended by Paul to the Corinthians with a spiritual bond between the parties. Excommunication may be thought of as therapy to bring people around. Jesus extends the permission to heal “at the point of death” on the Sabbath to encourage action that does good for a neighbour.
Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, notes that the biblical notion of justice, beginning in the Hebrew Scriptures with the Jewish prophets—especially Moses, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Hosea—is quite different from being punitive and retributive. If we read carefully and honestly, we will see that God’s justice is restorative.
God “punishes” us by loving us more! How else could divine love be supreme and victorious? Check out this theme for yourself: Read such passages as Isaiah 29:13–24, Hosea 6:1–6, Ezekiel 16 (especially verses 59–63), and so many of the Psalms. God’s justice is fully successful when God can legitimate and validate human beings in their original and total identity! God wins by making sure we win—just as any loving human parent does. The little “time outs” and discipline along the way are simply to keep us awake and growing.7
Fr. Richard concludes by reminding us that fear, anger, divine intimidation, threat, and punishment are not going to lead people to love.
References
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