2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time (“B”)
Q. 667: Todays readings seem to indicate that a lot of “intercessory” help is being given. Is there a reason for that or a direction this is taking? (Return to INDEX page of "Didja Know?" series)
January 15, 2012
A. 667: Oh that we would only listen to the voice of the Lord which comes to us through so many others! We believe unquestionably that God speaks to us when we read and meditate on his inspired Holy Scriptures, as well as when we participate in the sacred sacramental liturgies, private devotions, and many other traditional modes. But do we ever listen carefully to what God may be saying to us through other individuals we encounter daily?
The future great prophet Samuel had to listen to the guidance of Eli the High Priest, before he was able to recognize the voice of God calling him to a task (1 Sam 3:3-10,19). Two disciples of John had to listen to the guidance of the Baptist before they could recognize the Lamb of God. Andrew and another disciple had to listen to Jesus before they recognized the Messiah. And even the great future St. Peter had to listen to his brother Andrew in order to become a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Messiah and Son of God (John 1:35-42).
The response of faith to doubt and/or ignorance about Jesus has always been, “Come and you will see.” When you spend quality time with Jesus every day (e.g., Mass, prayers, scripture, meditation, helping the poor) you will be changed. You will receive clarity of vision and the gift of discerning God’s will, as distinct from the will that our very sick culture tries to impose upon us. The will of God is that we should listen to and follow Jesus Christ, the Messiah and Son of God. His way is not the way of our society, but the way of truth and peace and love. If you diligently seek him, he will definitely let you find him!
KNOW YOUR CATECHISM! As followers of Jesus, we are called to give, to serve, and to suffer if necessary. The title “Lamb” of God – the Lamb that we are called to follow daily – indicates a serving, suffering, loving person who is also the Paschal Lamb, our Redeemer (CCC 608). Listen to him!
Deacon Paul Rooney
Mary Our Queen Parish, Omaha
(Go back to Deacon Paul's HOME PAGE)
