I think the readings today offer us the opportunity for some interesting contrasts. The first reading is clear about what the Lord God expects and also does not accept. In looking at the positive, the behaviors we should demonstrate, we see more opportunity for how we should live our lives. The Responsorial Psalm builds on this theme so that lest we think we are doing all such good deeds and take pride in them, our hearts need to be humbled. The Gospel reading is one of my favorites as I know it is for many others. I have been blessed with four young cousins. There is nothing comparable to the opportunity that I have been given to be a part of their growing up. Children are realistic, matter-of-fact, honest, and accepting. What more could we ask for than “the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these”? |