19 July 2020
Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
It is a challenge to be optimistic in these days of masks and social distancing. That’s why the first parable in today’s mass is so encouraging. It speaks of the weeds and wheat and invites me to be realistic: it is normal to find in myself and in others the good mixed with the bad. The separation will not come in this life.
To refuse to see the world as it is, is to pull myself away from God’s on-going work of salvation. Christ came to save, not condemn. To be his collaborator in this effort is to accept evil with patience, with a shrug and even, if possible, with a smile. There can be no holiness without humor.
What helps me do this? The answer can be found in the Psalm:
“You, Lord, are abounding in kindness to all who call upon you.” I can always call upon the Lord with confidence, even though I am aware of the evil within me and the mask on my face. I know I shall be heard because he hears with a love that saves. Every gripe I express in prayer is a confident appeal for help.
So, as I read in today’s Responsorial Psalm: “Turn toward me, and have pity on me; give your strength to your servant.”