Begging for Correction

2.27.22 Gospel Reflection – Luke 6: 39-45

 

Who can argue that the world has not been turned upside down and inside out recently?  Perhaps this reading is offering the world a way to restoration?  We follow Jesus’ challenging teaching on forgiveness from last week’s Gospel.  The theme (from last week to this week) focuses on the harsh judgement we levy on others, while denying the same judgements for ourselves.  These tough decrees that target others usually stem from faults we possess that are anything but comforting.  How often have I unfairly made a presumption of someone only to be proven wrong?  Probably more often than I care to admit.  In the world of psychology this behavior or mindset is call projection.  It is a defense mechanism used to avoid responsibility. 

 

Buddha, the ancient Indian ascetic, spoke about many things.  One that seems to relate to today’s theme is as follows:  “To live without sin is an illusion.” Human beings are not born to hurl insults, degrade others or to humiliate.  These are learned behaviors taught to us from our first classrooms, the household and community.  But not is all lost, my friends.  For what can be learned, can also be unlearned.  One must first recognize the destructive nature of harsh criticism and then be open to the Holy Spirit for transformation.  Remember Jesus challenging the Pharisees by saying, “Let the one who is without sin cast the first stone at Magdalene.” (John 8:7)  Today, let us consider beginning a “chain reaction” of love and compassion that has no boundaries.  (As did the Master)

 

I defer any further analysis of this reading and will attempt to follow in the footsteps of the psalmist for the remainder of this reflection.

 

·         “Father, nothing else matters, aside from Your infinite love for us and the

transformative judgement that will reign down upon the world soon.”

·         “Let all nations unite and prostrate themselves before Your divine throne in

honor of authentic kindness, integrity, respect and acceptance.”

·         “You, Holy Father are the gateway to mercy and reconciliation who transforms

the cold, cynical heart into one that is a model of Christ.”

·         “How magnificent is Your Glory because You are constantly creating and shedding

newness into the world.”

·         “You are the Divine parent who incessantly seeks our return home, despite

our arrogance and the honor we place upon worldly idols.

·         “You are the amazing God standing within the threshold of two worlds,  

responding to those of contrite hearts and who are begging for correction.”

 

Keep praying!                                                                                                       The Pilgrim