JULY72024

The current world situation is characterized by the rise of populism. The perception is that those who have been running things have done a poor job. There is great skepticism about those who claim authority. Let’s throw them all out. The theme of who you should listen to is woven into the three readings assigned to this Sunday. The prophet Ezekiel claims he should be listened to in his role as prophet because the spirit entered into me and set me on my feet. St. Paul is criticized by the Church in Corinth because of his weakness but he flips that critique on its head. I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me. The authority of Jesus is questioned in his home town because they  knew him growing up. How can someone we knew as a kid with a runny nose be the voice of God in our midst? They took offense at him. The question of authority is an important one in the life of faith. Can I find all the answers in the Bible? Should I listen to the Pope and the Bishop? Is the pulpit the appropriate place to talk about politics or the economy or the environment? In our age of exaggerated individualism is there anyone outside of myself that demands my respect? As Ezekiel, St. Paul, and Jesus demonstrate the one you should listen to is the one who does not speak for him or herself but who seeks to speak the word of the Lord. Many might claim to speak for God but we have criteria to help us discern the true messangers of God. They have a voice that recognizes that everyone you meet is a child of God, a voice that reminds us that reaching out to the hungry, the hurting, the stranger is reaching out to Christ, a voice calling us to care for the common good, a voice that speaks of peace.