Reflection by Deacon Matt

Reflection for 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time: August 25, 2024

Joshua 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b: We witness in this passage a renewal of the people’s Covenant with God. This takes place; appropriately at Schechem; a place that many identify as a traditional location for covenant-making. In covenant agreements, it’s spelled out what the rewards or benefits are for each party, if they are faithful to the terms of the agreement. It’s also clearly defined what the consequences for both parties will be, if they fail to comply with, or obey the terms of the agreement.

These covenants usually are made between a landlord and a vassal (tenant). The prologue recounts the history of what the overlord; (in this case, God), has done for the vassal (the Hebrew people or the Jewish nation). In return, the expectation for the people is that they fear (reverence) and serve the Lord; i.e. adhere to and obey the Commandments of God. 

Psalm 34: “Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.” To add to our theme of faithfully living in a Covenant relationship with God, the psalmist pledges to offer God praise and thanksgiving, at all times; keeping in mind God’s faithfulness and generosity to us, all through the ages. Notice how the psalmist is aware of the effects of how one person’s shared faith can evangelize others. Note the line: “The lowly will hear me and be glad.” Shared faith can produce abundant fruit (evangelizing other souls).

Notice how faithful followers of the Covenant (the just) are rewarded with God’s protection, attentive love and compassion. The just are reassured that God hears and responds to their petitions; while evil-doers (unfaithful to the Covenant) face the consequences of a confrontation with God, in which they face severe… even eternal, punishment consequences. Notice that the psalmist doesn’t “sugar-coat” reality. The author concedes that “many are the troubles of the just one; but from them all the Lord delivers them.” This psalm offers great hope for the just!

Ephesians 5:21-32: Now, St. Paul presents to us a vision for us to ponder, regarding living out our Christian Covenant. We’re to respectfully treat others as if they’re Jesus, Himself! We’re to serve others and accord them the same respect and love that we would expend if we were interacting with our own dear Lord and Savior! The “others” referred to include our spouses, our families and friends, our neighbors, and even our enemies! 
What will this look like? It will look like we love one another so much that we’re gladly willing to humble ourselves to sacrifice for one another’s comfort, happiness and nurturance. It will look like we’re putting others’ needs first; especially those most vulnerable. It will look like the Kingdom of God is flourishing upon earth!

John 6:60-69: Now, Jesus’ Apostles and disciples, including us, are being asked whether we’ll accept Jesus’ formal invitation to become His disciples. We’re being invited to enter a spiritual Covenant relationship with Jesus that demands our total investment of self and willingness to trust and believe in Jesus, while holding nothing back.

A number of “would-be followers” change their minds and stop following Jesus. They evidently find Jesus’ “Bread of Life discourse” and calls for personal transformation, unsettling and difficult to understand and accept. They’re afraid to let go and entrust all to Jesus. Where do we stand, with all of this? “Heavenly Father, fill us with courage and with deep faith and trust in You and Your Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. Help us to embrace the Covenant and faithfully live in obedience to it!” 

Committedly, 
Deacon Matt