Thursday, September 28, 2023

Thursday of the Twenty-fifth Week in Ordinary Time

(Haggai 1:1-8; Luke 9:7-9)

From all that Herod has heard of Jesus, he wants to see him.  When he finally does, during Jesus’ hearing before Pilate, Herod’s purpose is revealed.  He wants to see Jesus perform some sign.  Unfortunately, such a desire is not counted as a sufficient reason to inherit salvation.

Many today, like Herod, want to see some sign or miracle that warrants their following Jesus.  They are not satisfied with hearing of Jesus’ resurrection from first-hand witnesses.  They want to see the sick healed with the Sacrament of anointing or cranky people turned friendly with the reception of Holy Communion.  This, however, is not how faith works.  People first must believe in Christ.  That will open their eyes to plenty of instances of his saving help.

We should recognize Christ’s daily help.  He has put good people around us.  He constantly blesses us, for many with health for others with medical care or friends’ support.  We have every reason to expect that at the end when we are called Jesus will direct us to his Father’s house.

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