Homily Thirteenth Saturday in Ordinary Time (Mt. 9:14-17) “All Are Equal in the Kingdom”

Homily Thirteenth Saturday in Ordinary Time (Mt. 9:14-17) “All Are Equal in the Kingdom”

Jesus started a new movement in his society.  In the world Jesus lived in there was a definite hierarchy.  Divisions were there between races.  Also, there were definite socio-economic boundaries people did not cross.  You were either rich or poor and there was little chance that you would ever become rich if you were poor. The middle class was small if it existed at all.

There was also a division between those who considered themselves religious adherents versus those who were considered nominally religious. Jesus was from Galilee which was considered a backward place that could not possibly produce Theologically sophisticated people.  Because of this prejudice Jesus was never accepted by those in power. 

On this day, when we celebrate our independence, we are reminded that Jesus came to break down divisions in society.  He did not want to put old wine into new wine skins.   He envisioned an egalitarian society where all people would be treated with an equal dignity.

St. Paul tried to put Jesus’ vision into practice as he started churches throughout the ancient world.  The Eucharist table symbolized what Jesus wanted.  Everyone came together rich and poor, slave and free, black, brown and white.  All who gathered got the same food.  No one went away less nourished than anyone else.

In a sense, this is the ideal our country was built on.  “All are created equal” is our mantra.”   Let’s pray that we will hold on to that ideal and work to make sure that it is a reality.

Reflection Questions:

1. Do I identify with Jesus the working-class prophet?  Does the church need to look at its hierarchy and break down any clericalism as Pope Francis has indicated?

2. What do I wish to pray for this Independence Day?  What might bring peace to our troubled land?

Dear Parishioners,

          Happy Independence Day.  Play safe!

          May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you.

          Fr. Mark