Thursday, March 3, 2016



Thursday of the Third Week of Lent

(Jeremiah 7:23-28; Luke 11:14-23)

Humans have a natural inclination to communicate with God but often reject God’s message.  Both readings today witness this failure.  Jeremiah testifies that the people of Israel have ignored the words of the prophets speaking on God’s behalf.  In the gospel Jesus’ critics accuse him of being in league with the diabolical powers that he expels.  Of course, Jesus points out their illogic.

The word of God is often demanding.  It can call people away from their greatest comforts.  “How could something so wrong feel so right?” an old country ballad asked obviously referring to an adulterous affair.  Yet God only intends that people live up to their potential.  He wants them to be honest and truly loving.

As God’s people, we do not want to reject his message.  Nor do we want to block out other people and sneer at creation.  It is important then that we consult wise people to set limits on our actions.  It is also helpful that we share with God our needs and desires.