Today, the scriptures use two words that begin with “EN,” words that are totally opposed to one another.
Paulencourages the Colossians, and Jesusengages the scribes and Pharisees.
It really is a pattern for both.
Paul, even in his sufferings, is able to speak and write to them in words and ways that unite them to Christ, and find hope and his glory.
All the while, encouraging them to live in love, deepen their understanding of Christ and discover so many treasures of wisdom and understanding hidden in him.
It almost sounds like a love letter.
While, as the story of Jesus unfolds, we see in this narrative yet another jealous and knit picky instance of law versus love.
And, in this instance, Jesus states it just that directly.
Jesus challenges their understanding of the Sabbath and states it so: “I ask you, is it lawful to do good on the Sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?”
And looking for their reason to accuse him, they found it; they became enraged! And the talk about how to destroy Jesus begins.
Two words beginning in “EN” — completely opposite, and completely opposed to one another.
Father Perry D. Leiker is the 13th 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.
