Scripture Readings

08-15-2020Weekly ReflectionFr. James Aboyi

Dear Friends,

Our scripture readings during the Liturgy this weekend are very timely. They all address inclusivity and exclusivity, and specifically the issue of discrimination against foreigners. The first reading from the prophet Isaiah talks about how foreigners who believe in God are to be received. The reading ends with this final message, “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all people.” In the second reading, St. Paul addresses the problem of the division between the Jews and Gentiles, and in the Gospel we hear how Jesus granted the prayers of a foreign woman who refused to give up in spite of rejection.

The issues of discrimination and treatment of immigrants are generally characterized by what psychologists call the “in group vs. out group,” “us vs. them,” and often “us against them.” The scripture readings today challenge us to examine who we consider to be the “in group,” and who we consider to be the “out group.” To what extent can Christians, in matters of faith, speak of “us” and “them?” How do we include or exclude other people?

In confronting the challenge of rejection and discrimination, we are invited to learn from the Canaanite woman in the Gospel today. The disciples asked Jesus to send her away. Jesus tested her faith by not answering her prayer right away, but she insisted on her prayers without fighting back. Jesus tested her to demonstrate the depth of her faith. This woman shows us how to handle rejection in a nonviolent way. She models for us how to humble ourselves before God and to persist in our prayers, even when it seems like God is not hearing us. God will always answer us in his own time and in his own way.

Thank you and remain blessed,

Fr. James

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