Jesus’ beautiful words in the Gospel of today somehow stand in contrast with St. Paul’s in the first reading. Not that they are conflicting or contradictory, but only that the difference (in tone, especially) are interesting and worth reflecting on.
On one hand, in the Gospel we have Jesus in His most assuring and consoling stance towards us. On the other hand, Paul in the first reading boldly defends his integrity before the Corinthians, even to the point of mentioning special revelations he knew of in order to back up his claims. Also, Jesus seems to argue and insist on His point about God’s providence and concern for us. But He does so in a very tender manner, using simple common sense to make us understand.
A specific point ensuing from both is about contentment. For all his insistence and even boasting, Paul learns to accept most especially his weakness. He acknowledges that his power and strength come from the Lord alone. On the other hand, Jesus assures us that we need not be frantic even when we lack life’s basic things because God will always provide, and we can be content indeed even with the simplest things.
In the end, we can certainly take heed of what we have also today in the responsorial psalm: “Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.” That’s the invitation to all of us: to “taste” God’s goodness. It can well be the merging point between the two contrasting positions we pointed out at the start of our reflection. With the metaphor of tasting or eating, the invitation can be a disarming one. But if ever we are to hesitate, the invitation can also be a command. It may be only because we don’t quite know what “the goodness of the Lord” could be. But how would we know it, if we don’t try it? Fr. Martin Macasaet, SDB
Reflection Question:
How do you respond to God’s invitation to trust Him with your all?
Lord, bless me with a heart that is ready to respond to Your call to me.
St. Amandus, pray for us.
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