24TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, B
MASTER OF WORDS
“Master of words,” that was how my friend described somebody
he admired. We all admire people who can weave words so fluidly that they speak
convincingly, effortlessly, and effectively. Government people sound so
powerful. Business people sound so concerned. Church people sound so holy. And we like that.
Jesus was someone who was never
deceived by mere words. In today’s Gospel (Mk 8), he heard Peter declare his
faith. Jesus seemed unenthusiastic at this reply. Later we know why. Peter seemed
to revoke his earlier words when he rebuked Jesus’ own preaching about his
suffering, death and resurrection. Jesus also rebuked Peter for not getting it
right, for failing to understand.
It is really a good thing that
God is not an admirer of words, not a “reader of tongues.” Instead the Lord is a “reader of the
heart.” Not all words flow from
the heart. St. James in today’s
second reading (James 2) challenges those who testify that they have faith by
asking them “Where is your proof? Where are your works?” We can give the best
speeches but at the same time ignore the hungry, the sad, the dying, the sick,
the depressed, the needy people within our homes and in our communities. Our
words then mean nothing!
Jesus was not known just as the
great teacher, the sublime prophet, the efficient “talker.” Jesus was known then and remembered
today, for his heart, not for his tongue. He spoke, yes, but he also touched
the dirty people with love. He preached, yes, but he also embraced the little
children to bless them. He taught, yes, but he also healed the sick who kept
following him. He explained mysteries, yes, but he also proved these mysteries
by a love that was crucified and later, risen from the dead.
In Jesus, we see the matrimony of
words and works. His words explained his works. His works prove the sincerity
and truth of his words.
What about us? Many like to speak
of their faith but ignore the needy. Many want to teach about God but remain
far from God’s people. Many like to embrace slogans like “mercy” and
“compassion” but have no heart for sinners and those who suffer.
Lord, bless my tongue that my
words may flow from my heart. May my words become alive in the way I show love
and unity with the people who need me today and everyday. Amen.
