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.
