Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

"All lives matter." We do mean these words. We fail to live them out, however, because we believe in them in a conditional sort of way: yes, all lives matter, but some matter more than others. The sin of partiality is so ingrained that it has become common sense. Of course the rich matter more than the poor; it's the economy stupid! Of course CEOs matter more than line workers; it's just business! And of course white lives matter more than brown or black ones; it's the way it's always been. Some of us are essential, and some of us are kind of like extras in a movie. Where the true dignity of our family is concerned, we are blind, deaf, mute, and exceedingly lame. So let us beg our Parent to lay their hand upon us, that our impediments might be removed and our hearts and minds opened.

Isaiah 35:4-7; Psalms 146:1-10; James 2:1-5; Mark 7:31-37

Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Isaiah 35:4-7; James 2:1-5; Mark 7:31-37

We are the ones impressed by bright and shiny things, not God. Our groveling and pleading are pointless. She loves us because that is who he is, not because we give them presents. Jesus did not want our praise. He wants us to love as he loved. How else will God's "vindication" arrive? Who else can provide "divine recompense" if we refuse to? We must love our family without favoritism or conditions, for God's saving grace is meant for everyone, especially those who feel like they least deserve it. Is that really so difficult or complicated?

Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

James 2: 1-5

Is God the parent of all, or only some? If we have but one creator, then are we not all brothers and sisters? So why do we treat some as if they are more equal than the rest? Why do we only listen to the rich and beautiful? Why do we tolerate a culture that makes us "judges with evil designs"?