Daily Reflections- June 3, 2012

THE GOD WHO FREES AND UNITES

 

We are always called for a new beginning. There is a possibility for a new life. The story of Les Miserables talks of Jean Valjean who was inspired by a bishop who did not condemn him for taking candleholders because he was still in his prison mentality. The song “Amazing Grace” reminds us of how God in His goodness calls us from being lost to being found, blind but now we see. From many dangers and fears, God’s grace will lead us home and believe.

In Deuteronomy, part of Israel’s history is their experience of slavery in Egypt and the constant temptation to turn to other gods. Psalm 33 sings of the reality of death and famine. In Paul’s letter to the Romans, he speaks of slavery that leads to fear and recognizes suffering. The Gospel of Matthew narrates that even if the disciples saw the Risen Jesus, they still doubted.

Israel was not called for slavery. God called Moses to free them from captivity. He constantly reminded them through the prophets to return to God. The psalmist sings of Israel as chosen to be God’s own. Paul reminds the early Christians that they are adopted children in Christ, freed from the spirit of slavery to cry out “Abba, Father!” We share in the Spirit of Christ who redeemed us from sin. We are called to be disciples under the kingdom of God — the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

God has spoken. He created. He freed. He gave them the Promised Land. The commandment is to love God above all idols. The blessing is hope for God’s kindness and justice. He will speak and it will be made. Paul believes that if we suffer with Christ, we live with Christ. We are the Body of Christ, children of God.

The Gospel is a call to baptism from the slavery of sin to the freedom of love. We are meant to be disciples in the God who creates, redeems and unites. We share in the power of Jesus to carry this freedom of love to all the nations. Fr. Teodulo P, Gonzales, S.J

 

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: What kind of slavery do you fall into? What freedom do you beg God for?

 

We beg, Lord, for the grace to be freed from the slavery of fear to live, and to believe in the dignity of being God’s children.