Tuesday of the 20th week in ordinary time
Ezekiel 28: 1-10 Mathew 19: 23-30
Theme: Pride is ungodly
Today the church celebrates the memorial of St. Bernard Abbot. He was a great Theologian and a preacher. His piety and way of life continues to challenge all of us as Christians in our own time. In the 1st reading of today, we see God’s message through the prophet Ezekiel to the prince of Tyre. He has attracted the anger of God upon himself, because of his style of life. He has allowed pride to direct his actions and relationship with other people and this is not pleasing to God. In his privileged position, he was playing God in the lives of others, forgetting the fact that he was a mere mortal and answerable to God Almighty.
Sometimes we may find ourselves in similar situation of power and authority, what we do with it is very important. What the prince of Tyre did not understand is the fact that his position was simply a gift from God, and not a tool for oppressing the less privileged. Dearly beloved in Christ, privileged positions should be seen as what it is and used for the good of the people and to the glory of God. The saying that pride goes before a fall is very true, and we should always be mindful of that fact. The wealth that goes with privileged positions can also be a great source of pride for some people who find themselves in such a situation.
This is also seen in the gospel reading of today, when Jesus talks about the fact that it is not easy for a wealthy man to enter the kingdom of God. Remember, Jesus did not say it is impossible, he simply said that it will be hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.
This is because, with wealth comes a lot of challenges and if not properly handled can easily lead one away from the path that God has set for us. Wisdom is necessary at such moments, when it seem everything is going on well for you and you have power over people. If one is not careful, pride can easily set in and you begin to treat other people in a way that is not pleasing to God; simply put, you begin to play God in their lives. You want people to worship you and fan your ego, before you can help them or grant their requests. This was one of the mistakes made by the prince of Tyre in today’s 1st reading that got God angry, we must try to guide against it.
In the gospel reading also, Jesus assured Peter that all those who have left anything for the sake of the kingdom of God, will be abundantly blessed. Let us reflect today on the question, what have you left to follow Christ? As you do this, may almighty God bless you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Peace be with you.