This Gospel’s message contrasts with the first reading from the book of the prophet Baruch, which describes how the Israelites in exile recognized that they disregarded God’s voice and that each one of them “did evil in the sight of the Lord, our God.” They realized that they ignored God and God’s messengers and expressed a willingness to change. Today we remember Saint Jerome. He is one of the “Doctors of the Church,” a title given to individuals who have been recognized for their important contribution to theology and doctrine, and who are known for their “eminent learning” and “great sanctity.” Saint Jerome is particularly acknowledged for his translation of the Bible into Latin, which has been the standard text for many centuries. He made the Word of God accessible for generations. Thanks to him and others, we can be moved by God’s word when we read the Sacred Scriptures, attend religious services, and follow religious programs on TV, radio, and the Internet. We have to ask ourselves if God’s word touches us, helps us to realize if we need to change, and provides us with guidance regarding how daily to live our faith? Are we like the people harshly criticized by Jesus in today’s Gospel, because they ignored or even rejected his teaching? Or, are we like the Israelites in today’s first reading, who recognized their wrong ways and were ready to change them? Let’s pray for the Holy Spirit when we read or hear the Sacred Scriptures, asking to be moved by God’s word and to be inspired to change our lives if necessary. |