The church offers the choice of dividing the Gospel passage into two sections. It is the part that may be omitted that tells us: “Much will be required of persons entrusted with much.” Luke couched that grim reminder with Jesus’ comforting words to his disciples: “Do not be afraid.” We have been entrusted with so much, individually and collectively, that the words about the reciprocal demand could frighten us into inaction. Our fears could make us feel that our feeble attempts to bring about peace and compassion and reconciliation are futile. But we have the assurance of Jesus: Do not be afraid for your Father is PLEASED to give you the kingdom. God is more than willing – God is PLEASED to give us the kingdom. Thus, we must take delight in receiving all that the kingdom has to offer. Do not be afraid but do be prepared. “Stay awake! Be prepared to see and greet the kingdom from afar. Do not be afraid.”
I close with an excerpt of Nelson Mandela’s 1994 Inaugural Speech. (Mandela’s words could be a homily in themselves)
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant,
successful, talented and fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God.
Your playing small doesn’t serve the world.
There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking
so that other people won’t feel insecure around you.
We were born to make manifest the glory that is within us,
It’s not just in some of us;
It’s in everyone.
As we let our own light shine,
We unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear,
Our presence automatically liberates others.
Nelson Mandela’s 1994 Inaugural Speech
~Reflection by Sister Roberta Bailey, OSB
Have a good week. Schools are starting this week – watch out for school buses and children on the roads … safety for all.
Leave a Reply