Lectionary# 420. Scripture reflection for Tue of 20th week, August 19,2008

Scripture: Tues. of 20th week. Aug.19,2008. Ezekiel 28:1-10. Deuteronomy
32:26-27.27-28.30.35-36. Matthew 19:23-30. Lectionary # 420:

In reflecting on Matthew's Gospel for today, the reversal of
conditions and the changing of the world order comes to mind. Jesus calls
it a being born again or as one translation has for the word "palingenesia"
a new age, but that word brings to mind a movement not acceptable to the
Catholic Church--the New Age Movement that is a smorgasbord selection of
religious ideas, rituals, etc. to make people feel good. Jesus' teachings
are more radical and demanding than we think. The translation of the New
Revised Standard Version is better. Instead of saying "new age" it uses the
"renewal of all things."
Jesus' disciples are being formed into following him even through the
Paschal Mystery of his suffering, death, burial, and then resurrection.
They are being called to a conversion experience both interiorly and
exteriorly; a "metanoia" or reversal of their way of thinking and acting.
Following Jesus as a disciple calls them and us to the cost of discipleship
which involves a detachment from our possessions and from persons close to
us when it comes to what is first and foremost in our spiritual lives.
Jesus does promise spiritual benefits and graces when we do this and
also the enjoyment of eternal life through the mystery of his and our
rising from the dead. This is the ultimate gift and the promise.
Deuteronomy, so dear to Matthew our Evangelist, has as its message to
choose life--the life of living in the presence of God and being friends
with God through the covenant of loving-kindness, mercy and justice.
The former way of thinking about earthly riches as being the grace of
God upon those who had them is not what Jesus is teaching. He is reversing
such a thought. When we follow closely the dialogue between Peter and
Jesus on this occasion we come to see what this means. Peter asks what can
we expect in following you? We have put our possessions and trades aside
and even our families. What will you do for us who have accepted your
challenging call to discipleship? Jesus' answer stuns us as we hear the
implications of detachment. "Everyone who has given up home, brothers and
sisters, father and mother, wife or children, or property for my sake--the
bringing about the kingdom or reign of God-- will receive many times as
much and inherit everlasting life. Many who are first shall come last, and
the last shall come first." This is radical reversal teaching and can only
come from someone who is prophetic or from someone whom we Christians
believe to be the Son of God.
We, too, like the disciples, realize this is impossible for us, but
as Jesus says, "With God all things are possible." Jesus' own mother Mary
was challenged by Gabriel, God's angelic messenger, who confirmed that
"With God all things are possible." She then took up the call to be the
mother of Jesus (Luke 1:26-38). And then the Word became flesh and dwelt
among us." (John 1:14).