RESTORER OF RUINED HOUSES

PRAYER MOMENT

Saturday 8 March 2014.

RESTORER OF RUINED HOUSES

Pause. Be present as Jesus calls Matthew.

Reading: “You will build up on the old foundations and be called “restorer of ruined houses.” (Isaiah 58:9-14)

Reflection. This, and yesterday’s, passage from Isaiah 58 is the great text in the old testament about social justice; about creating right order in society and rebuilding – this time on a surer foundation – the community foreseen by the ancient covenant. In the gospel we have a dramatic glimpse of how this is done. Matthew, a Jew brought up in the traditional way has become an oppressor of his people. But Jesus sees through all this to a heart struggling to be authentic. In the gospel we have the impression that he does not hesitate to follow the call of Jesus. It is just what he has been waiting for. It strikes a chord with him. He always wanted to do something like this but he got side tracked. He is now “restored” and his gospel becomes associated with the way the Jewish tradition is fulfilled in Christ.   

Prayer. Lord, in Lent you want to restore and build up in us what you have planted long ago but we often lose sight of. Help us to welcome your word, as Matthew did, and answer your call. Amen.

David Harold-Barry SJ