November 2017

In today’s Gospel Jesus speaks to us about the failings of the scribes and Pharisees, the leaders of His time. What He has to say is valid for all time and for all in authority. Government and authority are worthy of our respect and cooperation, but we need to be awake to the weaknesses of human nature. People in power can become uncaring of others, especially of those who are poor, and people in power can become addicted to the advantages and privileges that come with the job. What is true of those in public office is also true of ourselves in our own little areas of power. How often people in the workplace can become rigid and rude in dealing with fellow workers. And the same can all too easily become true within the Church too, in the relationship between clergy and people. It is easy for individuals to become dictators in their own backyard. Jesus gives emphasis to not bossing others. We are to be servants of one another. “At your service” is a great motto and a great attitude to have in life.

See the conversation between Jesus and the woman at Jacob’s well. How carefully Jesus listens. How little He interrupts. How much He allows the woman to say who she is. How Jesus takes His time with this woman in order that they may both understand one another. Differences of view and differences of opinion are not a problem. No one is trying to force their view onto the other. No one is trying to dominate or to win an argument. It is matter of finding the way to the truth that both can share. Too often we interrupt and shout down the voice of others because we fear their views will clash or destroy our own. It is about a particular philosophy or social theory that we can agree or disagree about. The Gospel is a message from the living God. It is a challenge to us every day of our lives. The challenge for us is to practice what is taught to us by the Lord. It is a living power that will purify our hearts and heal our relationships with one another – if we allow it to enter our head and our heart.