I often wonder why Jesus (and God the Father) is obsessed with the poor, the afflicted, the outcast and the helpless, as though they were God's favourites.
In today's Gospel reading, Jesus claims that He is "gentle and humble in heart" (Mt 11:29), fulfilling Prophet Zachariah's prophesy that the coming King was someone who is "humble and riding on a donkey" (Zech 9:9). This could be the key to unlock the mystery of God's obsession with the poor and the afflicted: because they bear the image of Jesus.
In their poverty and hopelessness, they are just like empty vessels ready to be filled. They attract God.
Only those who have been hungry could appreciate the little food that is set before them.
Only those who are thirsty could savour every single drop of water offered them.
Only those who have nothing would accept any amount of money given them.
Only those who are tired desire and appreciate a good rest.
Only those who have struggled with a heavy burden would gladly exchange it for a lighter one.
Only those who acknowledge their nothingness and are willing to learn and be corrected, are the ones who would receive and grow in self-knowledge and God-knowledge (truth).
Such is the value of humility. True humility. "Humility is the mother of all virtues" (Mother Teresa of Calcutta).
When we acknowledge our weaknesses and our need for God's mercy and grace (that's humility!), we turn our heart towards God and His will. It is then that we lay down the worldly yoke and put on Jesus'.
14th Sunday in Ordinary Time | 5 July 2020
1 comment:
Thanks for sharing your humble and inspiring thoughts. Yes, that is why the humble attract God and are satisfied. I think, from your thoughts, it takes humility for one to appreciate the blessings of God and the favours we receive from each other. No gift is really "little" before the humble of heart, and no gift is "enough" before the proud.
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