A worker's wage is credited not as a gift, but as something due.
But when one does not work,
yet believes in the one who justifies the ungodly,
his faith is credited as righteousness.
As he reflects on a laborer's wages, Saint Paul labors mightily on the mystery of Grace. Here is a truth that fascinates and puzzles us endlessly; we must appreciate its importance even as we suspect that our brother or sister in the Lord still isn't getting it!
But that temptation to "take another's inventory" is a tiresome cul de sac; and we return to the awareness of God's election. I have been called; what must I do? Why has my life not shown with the holiness of God's patience under trial, thoughtful generosity, and peace?
The apostle's analogy of the worker's wage is helpful. Everyone must agree that, "A worker deserves his pay." It doesn't take a Son of God to say that, although he did. And anyone who reads the story of Abraham must agree that he earned his salvation by his fidelity. His willingness to sacrifice his only legitimate son Isaac certainly deserved a place in heaven! "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness."
But Saint Paul insists that Abraham's righteousness and his salvation were gifts. If we think he had earned them, our faith insists that the Lord freely and without compulsion selected, elected, and honored him. Given that I have not yet been martyred for my faith, much less volunteered to slay my son, I cannot claim Abraham's righteousness or a right to heaven or a standing in God's presence.
And yet, not to act as if I have been chosen would be insane. I must accept, and respond to, the very particular calling I have been given. I can no more ignore his word to me than Mary could dismiss the Angel Gabriel because she was busy with her housework.
Cardinal Dolan tells the story of his visit to his diocesan seminary early one morning. When he greeted a young seminarian with, "Good Morning!" the fellow said nothing. He repeated his greeting several times before he finally said, "Young man, I said 'Good Morning" and I expect a response!" The boy replied, "I am not a morning person." Nor was he seminarian much longer.
Jesus has warned us, "You know neither the day nor the hour." (Mt 25:13). He followed it with two devastating parables. Take nothing for granted; thank God for everything, and most especially the opportunities to respond in kind.
No comments:
Post a Comment
I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.