IT IS AGAINST THE LAW

PRAYER PAUSE        

Saturday, 5 August 2017

IT IS AGAINST THE LAW

Pause. Enter into the stillness of God within.

Reading: John the Baptist had told Herod, “It is against the law for you to have your brother Philip’s wife.” (Matthew 14:1-12)

Reflection. John the Baptist was, in Jesus’ words, “the greates t of those born of women,” but, in a sense, John got it wrong! He announced imminent judgement and expected the Messiah to be a new Elijah destroying the modern prophets of Baal. But Jesus didn’t. There was much to condemn but his approach was, not to judge, but to draw people to a new vision – the vision of the Beatutudes: “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” “Blessed are the peace makers.” We live at a time of much passing of judegement and intolerance. That is not Jesus’ way. His is to draw on the basic goodness of people and show how the gospel fulfils their best inclinations and deepest desires.

Prayer. Lord Jesus, teach us to be poor in spirit, gentle and peace makers. Amen.