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First Reading: Wisdom 9:13-18b
Although biblical writers matched their contemporary wisdom writers in the Near East, they also challenged traditional thinking. True wisdom was more than knowledge of facts. It also included almost a devotional appreciation for the mystery of life, which had been designed by God, the Creator. Creation extended beyond the visible, physical aspects of earthly life. This underlying belief is the foundation for true wisdom, as asserted by the biblical author.
The last verse of this passage sets a strong theme of dependence upon God for wisdom. This theme will be repeated throughout the rest of the book.
Second Reading: Philemon 9-10,12-17
This letter has only one chapter. Although it begins with a greeting to several people, it is a personal letter, which is addressed to Philemon, whose name means “beloved (as a brother).” Paul describes himself as a “prisoner.” He mentions his “imprisonment” twice more in this passage. He cleverly uses his relationship with Philemon as a way of securing a good reception for Onesimus. The verse that is skipped in this reading plays upon the name of Onesimus, which means “useful” or “profitable.” Paul tells the master of Onesimus, a slave, that the conversion of his servant now makes him “a brother.” Paul has indicated his close relationship with Onesimus. He refers to him as “my child.”
Paul also stresses the importance that good actions must be offered freely: “the good you do might not be forced but voluntary.” Despite the reasoning and argument, which Paul offers, he recognizes that Philemon must freely offer pardon to Onesimus, who appears to be a runaway slave. The new relationship of faith creates an eternal bond, which transforms both the master and the slave. Paul appears to be arguing for the release of Onesimus in order to help him in his ministry. We have no indication what subsequent events occurred, after Onesimus was sent back by Paul to Philemon. But it is interesting for speculation!
Gospel: Luke 14:25-33
Sandwiching two parables are three conditions of life as a disciple of Jesus: standing apart from family ties, self-denial and rejecting materialism. The evangelist ties this pattern of life to the journey with Jesus, as He continues toward Jerusalem. To follow Jesus means to follow His example of dedication and commitment in the mission, which He shares with His disciples.
Jesus begins his address with a Semitic hyperbole. He overemphasizes a statement in order to make a point. Jesus is not teaching hate and self-loathing. He is teaching about an even greater love and commitment as a disciple than to one’s own family. That says a lot to the people, who are listening to Him!
The subject of the first parable is an individual, who is constructing a fortification of some kind. The subject of the second parable is a king, whose fate is connected with the people of his nation. There is a public consequence to his action.
In my early years of ministry, I served with Sr. Donna Hart, an IHM nun. We exchanged stories about our religious training in the seminary and the convent. She told me how religious profession meant entering a whole new life and how that was expressed in her early formation.
A nun wore a wedding dress at her final profession. She was given a new name. And she could not visit her family without a companion from the religious community. In fact, in some cases, they were not permitted to enter the home of a family member. They had to stand on the porch and talk to a brother or sister at the doorway. At first, I thought that it was cruel. But Sister explained the logic behind this symbolic committal and entrance into the religious community. It was a visible sign of their commitment, not a rejection of their parents and siblings.
Some of those harsh requirements have changed for those, who are called to profession and religious life. But each of us receives a call that begins a new life, our own “religious life.” Discipleship is not just “blind faith.” You see and accept the consequences of the decision to enter a community of life, a life shared with others, including the life offered by Christ. That is part of the discernment and exercise of true wisdom. It means not returning to the old ways of the flesh and leaving the community of faith, which was given to support and sustain us. Besides receiving the gift of human life, each has been given a special and unique invitation. Only a foolish person would turn away from so great a gift and not be willing to accept the cost to follow Him. That is biblical truth.
Fr. Richard C. Macey is pastor of Our Lady of the Woods Parish, Woodhaven.
