By Friny Peter Ruwnglal, CSC –
Readings: Ex 11: 10 -12: 14; Mt 12:1-8
The Gospel passage of the day reminds me of the unceasing mercy of God though at times I am filled with guilt feelings in life. Often losing hope in my failures and discouragement leads to having hurt feelings.
But today the Lord speaks to me through this passage conveying the message of God’s Mercy in spite of my sinful tendencies. Further, I am reminded of the times I cling to judging people’s words and deeds like the Pharisees today in the Gospel.
In life it is difficult to remain merciful at all times but being chosen to proclaim Christ’s life by my life I am called to practice what Jesus did in his lifetime: showing love and mercy in all encounters with various groups of people. I do draw inspiration from the words of Jesus “I desire Mercy and not sacrifice”. I believe showing mercy is more challenging than sacrifice. I can make lots of sacrifices yet how to show mercy in the most difficult situations? For example a companion or confrere in the seminary may hurt me deeply. At that point I feel no mercy.
In such moments what would be my reaction and response? Will I truly and honestly say I forgive you once and for all? I am called to show mercy than to condemn a person for his failings and unfaithfulness at certain point of time in life. I believe laws are meant to guide and lead from imperfect state of life to perfect way of living. At times laws are meant to be broken so that in brokenness perfection arises.
Nevertheless, I am convinced that laws have consequences, both good and bad, yet I think that laws to be taken secondary as mentioned in the Gospel reading. For me, laws should promote life than condemning persons and create in them fear and guilt feelings for lifetime. Therefore, today I am called to challenge to give life by my words, actions and deeds to every person I encounter in my life.