FROM ALL THEIR DISTRESS GOD RESCUES THE JUST (cf. Ps 34:18)

Tuesday of the First Week of Lent (12 March 2019)

Readings: Isa 55:10-11; Ps 34:4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19 (R.v.18b); Matt 6:7-15

The prophet Isaiah tells us that God is always faithful to his words (Isa 55:10-11). So when he said that he would save the just from all distress, we believe too that it shall come to pass. But who are the just?

The Jews understood being just to mean keeping all the Laws as given by Moses. Yesterday, we talked of love as the perfection of the Law. Anyone who loves perfectly keeps the Law. Hence, we can say that he who loves well, is just.

That deduction would help us to redirect our understanding of whom a just man is. St. Paul said, “Love is patient, kind, without envy. It is not boastful or arrogant. It is not ill-mannered, nor does it seek its own interest. Love is not provoked to anger; keeps no score of offences. It does not take delight in wrong, but rejoices in truth” (1Cor 13:4-6). That tells us that love is more of a relationship than a mere observation of the Law.

Prayer is equally a kind of relationship; a loving relationship with God. Relationships do not call for too many words but trust and understanding. Hence, Jesus teaches us not to use too much words when praying but to relate (Matt 6:7-15).

That relationship makes a demand of us – to forgive all wrongs done to us (Matt 6:15). Is that not part of what St. Paul said concerning love above? That means, being just is a relationship. And anyone in this relationship is cared for and protected by God.

How much do you love?

May the Lord save you from all that oppress and trouble you. May you find great peace and love in his presence. Amen.

Have a fruitful day ahead. Peace be with you.