Preet Anupam Beck csc –
Readings: Is 38: 1-6, 21-22,28; Mt 12: 1-8
The readings of today invite me to recognize God as the Merciful Father. He is the giver of life, and the rules and laws are for us to enhance the quality of our life and not destroy life.
The first reading tells us that king Hezekiah was about to die due to his illness. He pleads in his prayer to God that he may live for some more time. God in his mercy added fifteen years of life to him. God answered his prayers and blessed him with a longer life.
In the Gospel reading, Jesus asserts that the Son of Man is the Lord of the Sabbath. He was promoting life and argued that it is not against the law to pluck and eat ears of corn to satisfy hunger.
I make judgments fast when I see others breaking the rules. I am challenged by the readings to be patient and merciful. I am inspired to be pro-life and to promote and pray for life through my words and deeds. I am also challenged not to judge those who ignore the rules and regulations of the society and the church.
Basic human needs are to be given preference over human customs and laws. I am encouraged to be merciful and promote life as I recognize my God as a merciful Father through the readings.