Oblates of St. Francis de Sales

New DeSales World Newsletter - Summer Edition

23th Sunday In Ordinary Time (September 7, 2003)

Readings Is 35: 4-7a Ps 146: 7-10 Jas 2: 1-5 Mk 7: 31-37

Suggested Emphasis

"The crowd is astonished at the wonders that Jesus performs."

Salesian Perspective

It would be interesting to know what motivated the crowd who brought the "deaf" man to Jesus. All we know is that they "begged him to lay his hand on him."

Some would say it was a test. Word had spread throughout the countryside of a powerful prophet and now that he was in their district it was a golden opportunity to see if Jesus was indeed "the real thing." Others who were more sympathetic might say that these were friends of the afflicted man and they saw an opportunity as well, but one that might help a friend.

As it turns out both points of view come away satisfied. Unfortunately both also miss the point. The crowd sees Jesus as the focal point of raw power, and is "astonished" at its exercise in front of them. They do not see this healing as a sign that points to a deeper reality. Jesus does not perform miracles to demonstrate power but to illustrate the love and care his Father has for his people.

Many people are struggling to find meaning in their lives, or trying to unravel the "secrets" of the universe or want to know why we exist. I would suggest that the only satisfactory answers come from a Christian perspective. That is, our existence is given meaning because it is a reflective of God's existence and influence in the physical world.

However we are not simply like inert mirrors reflecting God's glory; the wonderful part is that we share in His grace and glory. With gifts of intelligence and free will we are able to know Him, love him as a Father, appreciate what he has given us and take an active role in the unfolding of salvation history.

St. Francis de Sales urges us to be constantly aware on some level of God's presence. The first thing that we should do when we pray is to place ourselves in His presence. Everything about us, our bearing, our state of mind and whatever outward message we convey should have God in it. Essentially we become one of His "signs and wonders."

And then people will say, "He has done all things well."

Rev. Michael S. Murray, OSFS, is Executive Director of the
De Sales Spirituality Center in Washington, DC