Memorial of Saint John of the Cross, Priest and Doctor of the Church
(Zephaniah 3:1-2.9-13; Matthew 21:29-32)
St. John of the Cross lived in sixteenth century Spain. Buoyed by New World gold, the nation reached
its zenith in power and prestige. St. John
questioned the affluence, at least as much as it meant a relaxation in
religious life. Along with St. Teresa of
Avila, John set about reforming the Carmelite Order. Poverty characterized the reform’s exterior
discipline. More critically, the
reformers concentrated on prayer and contemplation.
John’s reform of the Carmelites echoes the call of Zephaniah
to Judah in today’s first reading. The
prophet first castigates Jerusalem for wanton behavior. He complains that the city does not listen to
God’s voice but does what it pleases. He
sees conversion in its future, however. In Zephaniah’s vision Jerusalem becomes
an example writ large of the first son in Jesus’ gospel parable. The son claims that he will not obey his
father. Then he comes to his senses and
does his father’s will.
Faith calls us as well to reform our ways. We have to abandon our incessant desire for
comfort and to thank God for simple things.
We must also forsake our penchant for entertainment to pursue a deeper relationship
with God in prayer. Prayer and
simplicity of life will lead to Christmas peace.
