“Looking Ahead” is a reflection on the Sunday readings by Father Perry.
God said he would send a prophet like Moses. His authority was guaranteed, for the Lord God himself said: “I … will put my words into his mouth; he shall tell them all that I command him.”
According to our biblical history, we have always had a relationship with our God who has sought to communicate with us.
He chose instruments to speak his word, and the fulfillment was to come in Jesus.
As Jesus began his public ministry — as is recorded in the scriptures of these first weeks of Ordinary Time — the reactions of the ordinary people were consistently impressive: “All were amazed! What is this? A new teaching with authority? He commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him.”
His fame spread everywhere.
Historically, we see the effect of Jesus. The penetrating question of real significance for us is whether or not Jesus’ teachings, word, and example amaze us.
And even if they do, is there more?
Do we feel compelled to follow him? Is his word truth like no other truth?
Do we hear God’s voice in what he says and does? Is discipleship with Jesus something we can hardly resist? Do we find a pride and self-conviction in sharing the Gospelwith others?
Being touched or impressed by fame is one thing; finding “abundant life” as Jesus has promised is another.
Finding life even in sorrow, pain, failure, and death is the glorious power of the Gospel.
This is faith. This is Paschal Mystery. This is the fulfillment of God’s promise: “I … will put my words into his mouth; he shall tell them all that I command him.”
In Jesus, the word of God comes to us.
Jesus, the word, God — all are one!
Father Perry D. Leiker is the 14th pastor of St. Bernard Catholic Church. Reach him at (323) 255-6142. Email Father Perry at pleiker@stbernard-church.com. Follow Father Perry on Twitter: @MrDeano76.
