God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son;
so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.
Today's "verse before the Gospel" calls our attention to the gist of both readings. They concern the "Son of Man" whose life was not spared as the LORD planned our salvation. The evildoers in these two stories are blinded by their angry preoccupations, and cannot imagine what God has planned from all eternity. Even when Jesus clearly describes the situation with a parable which uses very familiar images -- a garden, the work of planting a garden, an owner, his son, tenants, etc -- the Lord's enemies are clueless.
Or, they understand perfectly well what he is saying but cannot and dare not recognize its supernatural dimensions. Perhaps some of them, within their own hearts, get it. Perhaps all of them do. But they have plotted a murderous course and none dares even to speak against it.
Nor will God give them the grace to change their plans. Like the Egyptian pharaoh of their own ancient history, they have plotted to do evil and their scheme must run its course. Only someone of great vision -- namely, God's only-begotten Son -- can imagine how their disordered thinking might create the perfect setting for blessings to appear.
There is much disorder in our bureaucratized, politicized, polarized world. It seems twisted, bent, and broken beyond repair. A minority, misguided by overwhelming fear and insatiable greed control the economy and the government, while their propagandists persuade the populace that they know where this is all going.
They haven't a clue; and it often seems to the unimaginative that nothing but violence can stop the violence.
We read the scriptures and hear the Lord's parables and feel reassured. Although we cannot see a light at the end of this tunnel, we trust the Engineer. Like the travelers of early twentieth century trains as they passed through tunnels, we shut the windows against the coal soot which spews from the fiery engines. Turning away from the superfluous 24/7 news cycle, we return to prayer, penance, and the praise of God. Light is coming into the world.
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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.