Tuesday of the Sixteenth
Week in Ordinary Time
(Micah 7:14-15.18-20; Matthew 12:46-50)
Both readings today provide images for the People of
God. The prophet Micah calls the nation
of Judah “the flock of (the Lord’s) inheritance.” The term implies dependency since sheep survive
generally with the care of their shepherd.
Unlike sheep, however, the people have rebelled against their Lord. Nevertheless, God has shown them mercy.
There is no hint of rebellion in the gospel image. Jesus calls his disciples “brother, sister,
and mother...” Indeed, they have become
his family because they obey the will of God his “Father.” They have accepted his yoke which they can
readily bear with his accompaniment.
We too have been called into Jesus’ family. Perhaps we rebel at times by not doing what
God asks of us. For this we should
humbly ask forgiveness and accept God’s mercy.
When we do, the outcome is immeasurably satisfying. We receive Jesus’ eternal accompaniment.
