December 9/Second Thursday of Advent
“From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent are taking it by force.” ~ Matt 11.12
COVID-19 is not the only pandemic that has burrowed into our society and shows no signs of leaving. We are plagued, these days, by social division, profound political discord, and a violence of speech and action that is deeply disturbing. As we make our way forward in a churning society, nerves are rattled, inhibitions are loosened, and it sometimes seems that the violent in word or deed are going to prevail after all. So it was for Jesus: the context for this unsettling verse is the arrest and imprisonment of John the Baptist (soon to be violently executed), the unrelenting hostility of the principalities and powers towards Jesus, and his own impending and violent death. As this tumultuous year draws to a close, we may wonder what we can possibly do to bring about peace. Jesus shows us, by loving (not cancelling) his enemies, forgiving (not seeking revenge upon) his offenders, consistently offering God’s mercy to a broken world. As Pope Francis has observed, Christ “taught that the true battlefield, where violence and peace meet, is the human heart.” To counter violence, then, we must start with ourselves, our immediate surroundings, our everyday actions and attitudes. This might mean practicing patience, respect, and forgiveness in family life — not always an easy task! — or striving to get along with a difficult neighbor, or working to find common ground in our polarized communities. And whether we are on social media or not, we can all try to reach beyond provocation to understanding. As we witness, and experience, the violence that threatens to engulf the world and bear the kingdom of God away, let us do everything in our power to bring about the triumph of peace.
God of wisdom and grace, Help me scatter the seeds of peace wherever I go today. Amen.
For today’s readings, click here: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120921.cfm
To hear the Choir of Magdalen College, Oxford, sing “This is the Record of John,” by Orlando Gibbons, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9pE5vrgBHQ
