4 February, Wednesday — Open The Eyes Of My Heart

Wednesday of Week 4 in Ordinary Time

2 Sam 24:2,8-17
Mk 6:1-6

And they would not accept him.

A closer look at today’s gospel always raises for me the question of prejudice and how it lurks quietly in the background, easily colouring my personal responses to people, situations and issues. Unless I am aware enough to catch myself in good time and consider whether or not my pre-conceived notions have any real basis to begin with, I am likely to remain stuck with my often misplaced perceptions, and fail to see the full truth of matters. In so doing, I may dishonour someone, or miss the goodness, or wisdom, he has to offer.

Although the Jews had seen Jesus’ miracles and were impressed with his teaching, they could not find it in their hearts to accept him or believe what they had heard and seen. It seemed inconceivable that someone who was (only) a carpenter could display such extraordinary traits. They rejected Jesus on account of his occupation and his lineage (son of Mary) – in fact, referencing his mother was itself a veiled insult as the cultural convention then, being a patriarchal society, was always to link a person’s identity to his father. By associating him with Mary, the Pharisees were implying his legitimacy was in question. Presumably, they could not imagine that someone as ordinary with a questionable background could be the messiah. It did not fit in with their notions of what a messiah would look like – and it never occurred to them the possibility to distrust themselves or give others the benefit of doubt, especially those who were ‘different’.  

Real life is sometimes like this too. Some have been given authority by virtue of appointment (a CEO, ruling party) or birthright (a king). Sometimes, one becomes an ‘authority’ and has great influence because many are won over by his charismatic presence. When at a crossroads and needing to make critical decisions or choose sides, do the authorities wield a silent influence over me? Or do I, perhaps, feel the pressure of ‘groupthink’? 

In truth, it can be easier to make popular decisions rather than the right (often difficult) ones. Being radical or controversial can be costly, as many have experienced. That is why Jesus urges us to be like little children if we want to inherit the kingdom of God. Children are by nature trusting, open, real and honest. In contrast, adult minds are typically conditioned to grasp at certain convictions or ideologies that can over-complicate things and create tensions because we insist on our way, or feel that only we have the right answers. Yet the real authority wielded by Jesus came from a place of obedience to the Father – and from self-emptying and sacrifice. Which king washes the feet of his subjects? Which judge takes on the sentence meant for the convicted? Which master cooks breakfast to feed friends who deserted and betrayed him? Jesus really went against the norm, but every act of his held precious lessons for us all as his disciples. 

Today, Jesus also asks me the same question that he asked Peter — ‘Who do you say I am?’ A seemingly easy enough question with many pat answers, but it calls for a deeper reflection over what I profess and what I truly believe.  

What is my own understanding of ‘power’ vs ‘authority’? What does it mean to serve with purpose and to lead with love? To what end will I accept to live under Jesus’ authority – just as he was totally obedient to his Father? How does this change my priorities or deepen my trust in God’s bigger plans for my life? What can I now surrender to him as Lord and Messiah for a freer and more authentic life? In short, do I really have the fullness of the faith I profess in the Creed at every mass? There is much to ponder over as I ask God to grant me the grace of a ‘beginner’s’ heart and mind, so that he can (re)form me in faith to allow for miracles to happen.

(Today’s OXYGEN by Corinne Cheok)

Prayer: Give us new eyes to see, new ears to hear and a new heart of flesh that is open to the renewing power of your Spirit in us, O Lord. 

Thanksgiving: Thank you, dear Lord for never abandoning us, even when we reject you with our stubbornness and wilful ways.  Thank you for our family and friends who model for us what it means to serve with love.