Scripture Reflection for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
September 4, 2005
by Brandon Jubar
Love is the Key
I've heard it said, time and time again, that complex problems cannot be solved by simple solutions. The implication is that there is no single "cause" that can be identified and fixed, and there is no single "fix" that can eliminate all of the issues that created the complex problem in the first place. It's rare to find someone who disagrees with this line of reasoning.
Today's readings challenge that assumption and propose a simple solution. But make no mistake: though the solution proposed may seem simple, it is definitely not easy!
Convert the World (and Save It)
Through Baptism, Christians are called to service and evangelization. We are called to share the Gospel and make believers out of all nations. It's a very daunting challenge, but one that many Christian men and women accept on a daily basis. They are out in the world, meeting the non-Christians who may not know God, reaching out to the disaffected Christians who are away from God, and sharing the Good News with anyone who will listen!
Imagine if those evangelists were totally successful. What would the world be like? How different would it be if everyone loved and cared for everyone else? In the second reading today, Paul tells the Romans, "Love does no evil to the neighbor; hence, love is the fulfillment of the law." Wouldn't all the complex problems in the world be resolved if we all loved our neighbors, and they all did likewise?
Simple Doesn't Mean Easy
It sure sounds simple. And from a complexity standpoint, it is simple. However, the fact of the matter is that it's not at all easy! Most of us have trouble loving our families enough to maintain our patience during trying times. How much more difficult will it be to love our neighbors the way Paul describes? And what about the rest of the world's population? How hard will it be to love them?
What we need to keep in mind is that evangelization is not just about being viewed by millions on national TV while you preach to thousands of people in your church. Evangelization in not just about traveling the world to do missionary work. Evangelization can be a very grassroots ministry.
Start with Two (or More)
In today's gospel, Jesus says, "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." Evangelization can start small; at home, at school, or at work. It doesn't have to be part of a massive plan to conquer the known world. It can be very effective when done by individuals, for individuals. In that regards, it's a simple solution to a complex problem. Living that solution is definitely not easy, though! We need to pray, support each other in our efforts, and remember that the Holy Spirit will help us.
We may not be able to fix everything and solve every problem, but we can certainly make the world a better place for those around us. It's a simple solution, and love is the key.
Life Applications:
How do you "love" your neighbor?
How do you share the gospel with others?
What are other ways that you could "evangelize" people?
Copyright 2005 by Brandon Jubar
All rights reserved.
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