26 January 2020
Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
When I was young, I believed that the problems facing the world were economic injustices. My impulse was to address the problem with income/wealth distribution and regulate large and successful enterprises. For that reason, I joined the student movement in my home country. At that time, I believed that I had to fight for a better human society. In retrospect, I was just a naïve and idealistic young man who believed that we could address the problems of poverty and inequality in the world. Upon my ordination as a priest last summer, I went back to my home country and many people were expecting to see me as a social activist priest. They were disappointed to find out that I had abandoned the convictions of my youth.
In the Gospel today, Jesus does not call for the combat of injustice, hunger and poverty. Instead, Jesus calls for repentance as he said, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” While the promotion of justice is important, Jesus put emphasis on the conversion of heart. Jesus withdrew to Galilee after the arrest of John the Baptist. Jesus’s move is not a retreat or a flee from danger. Instead, he focuses on his mission. Jesus moves to a part of Galilee which is associated with to the northernmost tribes of Israel, Zebulun and Napthali. Here, Matthew points out the fulfillment of Scripture, especially from the prophet Isaiah. Jesus’ appearance in the region fulfill God’s plan that the Messiah will shine in this region which was considered Gentile territory. The prophet Isaiah predicted that the Gentiles in Galilee will see a great light; the light will rise while they are sitting in the darkness. Jesus shows his light by proclaiming “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” The term “kingdom of heaven” refers to the time when God’s power and judgement will be made fully manifest and acknowledged by all creation. The main message of this passage is that while some people might escape from justice and accountability for their misdeeds on earth, they will be held accountable in the eternal judgement. Jesus Himself is justice and He creates justice. This is our consolation and our hope, that our faith in eternal life guarantee us that there will be eternal judgement where the issue of injustice is addressed.
Perhaps, there are times in our lives when we ask, “how can I address the issue of injustice this world.” Listen to the Gospel today and ask how to respond to Jesus’ words. Talk to Jesus about your desire to fight against injustice or whatever you have in mind about the problems facing the world today. How would you respond to Jesus’ call for repentance and conversion of heart?