THE WORD
1 Mac 4: 36–37.52–59 / Lk 19: 45–48
Jesus entered the temple area and proceeded to drive out those who were selling things, saying to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves.’” And every day he was teaching in the temple area. The chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people, meanwhile, were seeking to put him to death, but they could not find a way to accomplish their purpose because all the people were hanging on his words.
IN OTHER WORDS
It is necessary always to observe modesty in all things, even in matters of external appearance. That is why when we attend weddings or special occasions we see to it that we wear the proper and decent attire. However, some people are not that sensitive as regards the importance of modesty when attending liturgical celebrations, especially when there is no particular or special occasion involved.
Jesus in today’s gospel reminds us to show respect to our churches. Although it is supposed to be the house of God and our house of prayer, many churchgoers are quite insensitive in the way they behave inside the church. This is really bothersome considering that other religions seem to have a high regard for such matters. Many Catholics seem to forget the proper attire when attending a Eucharistic celebration. Even during the mass, some people can be seen using their cellular phones, while others do not even bother to put their phones on silent mode. Others can be observed chatting with the persons beside them. This attitude is clearly a manifestation of disrespect not only to the Church but also to those who observe modesty and respect.
I believe Jesus is asking us to look within ourselves and see how we can observe faithfully the demands of the church. Thus, we should continue to pray that we may become sensitive even in small matters and faithful to the internal and external demands of a modest religious observance.
- Roger Solis, SVD (HNU, Tagbilaran City)
The Word in other words 2015
An annual project of Logos Publications, The WORD in Other Words Bible Diary contains daily scripture readings and reflections written by priest, brothers, and sisters of the three congregations founded by St. Arnold Janssen (the SVD, SSpS, and SSpSAP). It hopes to serve as a daily companion to readers who continually seek the correlation of the Word of God and human experience.
