Spirit Scrutinizes Everything, even the Depths of God

 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time: February 12, 2023

Readings: Sirach 15:15–20; Psalm 119:1–2, 4–5, 17–18, 33–34; 1 Corinthians 2:6–10; Matthew 5:17–37

To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/gOcRmVfs7-o

We realize the need for God or the higher form of Order in our lives because of our understanding that we are finite and imperfect beings. We strive to become better versions of ourselves by assimilating the virtues in our lives or those things which we consider holy and extraordinary. The sixth Sunday in ordinary time invites us to reflect in our daily lives on the importance of forgiveness, humility, compassion, and those things which are dear to God.  

1. People in communion with God and others

As spiritual beings, deep within us, there is a longing in our hearts to see God and to be part of God's life. Even though none of us have seen God yet we have some idea of God because of our religious upbringing and reasoning capacity. In spite of our limitedness, we have the capacity to know God. A week ago, Metropolitan John Zizioulas of Pergamon (1931-2023), one of the finest Greek Orthodox theologians of this century died. His celebrated work, "Being as Communion: Studies in Personhood and the Church" had a profound impact on our understanding of God and the Church.  He reflected upon the communal nature of God. He believed that God is not an isolated individual, but a communion of persons who exist in relationship with each other in the form of Trinity. He also thought that Church is not just an organization, but a community of persons who share in the life of God through the Holy Spirit. Hence all of us belong to a  community of persons who are united in their shared relationship with God.

The passage from the book of Sirach 15:15-20 also known as the Book of Ecclesiasticus is part of the Wisdom Literature in the Apocrypha. The passage describes the nature of God's relationship with humanity and the importance of following God's commands. There is a personal choice and the power of free will in determining one's spiritual fate. In the duality of life and death, choosing life must be our permanent choice. The wisdom and power of God are immense. God sees all and knows all. God desires people to follow His commands and live righteous life. Therefore our heart must be pure for it is the seat of our motivations, the place from which our words and actions proceed. We must master our passions and emotions.

2. Assimilating God's ways in our lives

Growing closer to God does not happen automatically. Jesus' Sermon on the Mount which we continue to read today (Matthew 5:17–37) gives us tacit precepts on how to accommodate and assimilate them in our lives in a practical way. Jesus taught that true greatness comes not from power or wealth, but from serving others and living a life of love and selflessness. In the face of trials and temptations, it can be easy to lose hope and give in to despair. However, with faith in God and a commitment to doing what is right, we can overcome any obstacle and find peace and fulfillment in our lives. Therefore Jesus insists on the importance of perseverance and faith. As we move along in our spiritual life journey we must recommit ourselves to living a life that is centered on love, forgiveness, and compassion for others. 

Our life on this earth matters. That is why we have laws, norms, values, ethics, etiquettes, virtues, and attitudes as a kind of guide to our lives. Jesus teaches the true nature and meaning of the law. He calls for a higher standard of righteousness and holiness. Jesus challenges his listeners to go beyond just keeping the letter of the law, but to also fulfill its spirit and intent. This includes not only avoiding sinful actions but also avoiding sinful thoughts and attitudes. Jesus is concerned not just with external behavior, but also with the inner motivations and attitudes of a person's heart. The call of Jesus is for spiritual transformation and growth. By following these principles, Jesus's followers can cultivate a deeper and more meaningful relationship with God and others, and live lives that reflect the love, compassion, and justice of God.  May we all strive to embody these values and grow closer to God in the process.

Questions for reflections:

1. How does the idea of God dwelling in our hearts and minds impact the way we live our lives?
2. How can you cultivate a heart of love and compassion towards those who oppose or hurt you, as Jesus taught in the passage of the Sermon on the Mount?
3. In what ways can you apply the teachings of Jesus in this passage to your relationships with others and with God?
4. What does it mean to be reconciled to others, as Jesus teaches in this passage? How can you work towards reconciliation in your own relationships and community?
5. How does the message of Jesus in this passage challenge you to think about your own attitudes and behaviors towards sex, marriage, and divorce?

Prayer:

Dear Lord,

We come before you today, humbly seeking your guidance and wisdom. Your word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path, and we long to be rooted in it. Help us to meditate on your law day and night, to delight in it, and to obey it with all our hearts.

We pray for a deeper understanding of your commandments and a greater love for your ways. May we be steadfast in our faith, even in the face of trials and temptations. Strengthen us in our weakness, and help us to persevere in the face of adversity. We ask that your word would be a source of comfort and hope in our lives, guiding us always to do what is right and good. May we trust in your grace and love, always seeking your face and dwelling in your presence.

We ask these things in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

February 10, 2023