Scripture for July 5, 2008

Scripture: Amos 9:11-15. Psalm 85:9.11-12.13-14. Matthew 9:14-17.
Lectionary # 382.

One of the most beautiful and comforting verse in the Psalm is given
to us today and several times in the liturgy of the hours. It helps us to
think of peace for the world: "Kindness and truth shall meet; justice and
peace shall kiss; Truth shall spring out of the earth, and justice shall
look down from heaven." In the Hebrew commentary for this verse we read,
"...Divine salvation is dependent upon human cooperation. When truth, i.e.,
righteous conduct is practiced in the land, it receives the blessing of
God's mercy" (Soncino, Psalms, p.278). This verse gives us an excellent
insight into what Amos now presents to his people. It is no longer the
threat of punishment but a message of deep hope. All that has been torn
down and in ruins will be restored. We see there is almost a messianic
atmosphere in what is promised in the abundance of food and drink.
Peace is also in our response for today takes up this message: "The Lord
speaks of peace for his people."

The Gospel gives us a scene in which Jesus is asked the question why
his disciples do not fast like those of John the Baptist or like the
Pharisees? Jesus then gives a beautiful image of a wedding to show them
why his disciples do not fast. Can the wedding guests mourn and be sad at
the wedding of their friend the bridegrrom? No, of course not, it is a time
of great rejoicing with song, dance, and plenty of food and wine. All the
guests are centered on the bride and the groom. This may recall for us
that Jesus himself was invited to a wedding and his mother too. (Cana
2:1-11). He keeps the party going as his wise mother makes him take note
that the wine is running out and the couple will be embarassed. What a
terrible event that would always be remembered. We were invited but the
food and drink ran short! Mary simply tells him,"They have no wine." Then
the great miracle of superabundant and vintage wine fills what was formerly
water in the six large jars. Jesus was undoubtedly familiar with weddings
and parties! He also returns to the question posed to him and does say,
"When the bridegroom is taken away, then they will fast." Fortunately, on
this teaching occasion as well as at Cana, Jesus hour of his being taken
away had not arrived. Amen.