Homily Fourth Thursday of Lent (Exodus 32:7-14) “I Wouldn’t Do That”
Homily Fourth Thursday of Lent (Exodus 32:7-14) “I Wouldn’t Do That”
How do we know when we have a great intimacy with another person? We know that we have a deep friendship when we can disagree with the person strongly and still maintain a friendship. We can also speak the truth to them, even if it is a hard truth, and not be afraid that we will alienate the other person.
Some of the great figures of the Old Testament were not afraid to disagree with God. Abraham was known as “the friend of God.” We would have to say that Moses had a similar relationship with God.
The episode that we read from Exodus today has a very anthropomorphic depiction of God. God seems very human as he throws his temper tantrum over the infidelity of the Israelites. They had built a golden calf and were worshiping it.
Moses had been away from the Hebrew people for many days communing with God. Perhaps the people thought he was dead. Left to their own devises they had quickly lost faith and committed the sin of idolatry. This was probably the most grievous sin of all.
Moses intercedes for the stiff-necked Israelites. He points out that God will lose credibility if the Lord lets his temper get away from him. What will people say, he asks, if you cannot even influence your own chosen people. Will they not be more impressed if you can change the hearts and minds of the people you have made your own.
God comes to see that mercy is a greater attribute than having the power to destroy. Of course, God knew this all along, but Moses just needed to remind the Lord. That is what friends do many times, they keep us from acting on our worst inclinations.
Reflection Questions:
- Is there someone in my life who can tell me hard truths when I need to hear them? Who is it?
- When have I had to warn someone that they were heading for trouble? Was I glad that I did this or was the result less than happy?
Dear Parishioners,
Seton Catholic School is registering students for next year. The kindergarten and preschool numbers are looking good. Because of the pandemic we are not able to have normal recruitment activities, so this has made things more difficult.
If you know of parents who are deciding where to send their children, please encourage them to consider Seton School. The numbers of students in Catholic schools have dipped across the country this year and we are hoping that things will rebound next year.
The best advertisement is always the witness of those who are satisfied with the education provided by an institution. Seton is a superior school and more importantly it provides a faith-based education. Spread the word.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you today.
Fr. Mark