Third Sunday in Ordinary Time-Sunday, January 22, 2023
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
It is often said these days that we live in a divided nation. Even sometimes these divisions are expressed in negative, hateful, even tragic ways. Regardless of where we stand, those of various points of view need to respect civil discourse. The late Archbishop Niederauer often said that it is one thing to disagree but another to be disagreeable. Though the cause of violence is not always clear, it is clear there must be no place for violence or taking the law into one’s own hands. Though we have made much progress, there is always the danger of the mob mentality, which sets aside the truth to attain what may appear to be the truth now. God gave us brains to think, to be rational. Emotions are not our thinking. There are always good, sound reasons for the positions we hold. When irrational ways dominate then there is the loss of true freedom. The will to power is not the way to take. One of the articulate and gentle leaders of the civil rights movement often reminded us that “When you know better you do better!” As Christians we should always strive to be and do the best we can. In fact, because of our beliefs we have an even greater responsibility to know better and then do better.
From the first letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians it seems there must have been some serious divisions among that early church community. In chapter 1, verse 10-11 we read: “I appeal to you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no dissensions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.” St. Paul appeals for unity in charity. That is not always easy, but each of us has a very serious responsibility to build up the Church in unity. If we put aside a superficial view of Church matters St. Paul promises that we will discover the wisdom of the Cross. The Wisdom of the Cross comes from submitting to Christ in all things and by loving one another. Jesus Christ is our model. He wills that we be united in love. When we live in Christ it is not a matter of getting my way but doing what He wants because He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
In the Gospel of Matthew, chapter four, Jesus makes clear the position of those who will become fishers of men and women. First and foremost, all that is contrary to His ways must be put aside. Humble, repentant, contrite hearts will build up the kingdom of God. “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” In Matthew chapter 5 we read: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Let us all renew our promise to be peacemakers in our families, our parish, our town, our country, in the world. Peacemakers are very much in need in our day. Let us rise to the occasion.