16th Sunday of the Year (A)

(Edited) Sunday reflections: (From) Years 2014 (A), 2015 (B), and 2016 (C)

July 20, 2014
Liturgical readings
Wisdom 12:13, 16-19
Psalm 86
Romans 8:26-27
Matthew 13:24-43

"The field-owner said: 'No, don't pull up the weeds...you might take the wheat along with them...wait until harvest'."

In a world that is highly educated in science and technology, God's wisdom in the Scriptures, and common sense wisdom in practical living are still highly valid and valued. God's wisdom reminds all of many unseen spiritual forces - some beneficial, some detrimental, to health of both soul and body. The "good forces" come from God, while the "destructive forces" are from the Ancient Enemy. This battle between good and evil is the cause of many conflicts in the world. For the conflicts are caused by the battle in every soul; and the turmoil caused by the battle spills over to others and the environment. So the gospel calls all today to be wise, patient and practical in this battle.

This battle between good and evil is explained well in the spiritual classic, the "Imitation of Christ", written by Thomas á Kempis. The author writes:

"You must realize that your Ancient Enemy is striving in every way to disturb the good state of your desires, and to turn you against every exercise of devotion...against vigilance over your heart and a firm resolve to make progress in goodness. He supplies many evil thoughts to make you feel restlessness and revulsion, to keep you back from prayer...He has no liking for humble confession, and if he could, he would see that you stopped making your communion." (Imitation, Book 3, chapter VI).

To choose Christ in a world where many are becoming enemies of Christ and the Church, is a vocation. In this vocation, the Ancient Enemy tempts all that he can so they lose heart and become anxious of an uncertain future (which many news online presents). Sometimes, the temptation is directed so that one would rely only on one's strength and intellect, (and that of others), and forget that there is a God whose will and wisdom is greater than all. There is no need to be overwhelmed by the struggle. All that is needed is to "slow down", and to remember the wisdom of the Gospel: Patience. To be patient with others, but most of all to be patient with one's self, is the key. The Lord had been patient with all humanity until now. It is in Him that one's patience will bear much fruit against all evil that seeks only destruction.

Scripture quotes for reflection:
"The Lord gave His sons good ground for hope; He would permit repentance for their sins." (Wisdom 12)