23 September 2020
Memorial of Saint Pius of Pietrelcina, Priest
Today’s readings point us toward a radical dependence on God, one which is almost antithetical to the radical independence that modern society promotes. Our tendency to forget our dependence on God is highlighted in the book of Proverbs with the line: “Provide me only with the food I need; Lest, being full, I deny you.”
The directives that Jesus gives to his apostles regarding dependence seem rather extreme. On their journey they are to take nothing, not money nor food. How will they survive? Who is to provide for them? God, of course. But more precisely, God working through neighbor. While they provide healing and spiritual nourishment, those who are cured will provide physical nourishment to the apostles. Thus, the commandment to love God and love neighbor are simultaneously fulfilled.
What are the obstacles in our lives that make it difficult to have total dependence on God? What obstacles in our lives prevent us from connecting with our neighbors in a relationship of love rooted in Jesus?
May God’s word be a lamp to our feet as we walk this journey.