We can become so used to hearing the same gospel readings, following the same Mass ritual, reciting familiar prayers that they no longer have any effect upon us or our lives. Jesus forcefully confronts such an attitude of indifference in the very places he tirelessly preached. Perhaps they got too used to hearing his message that it went in one ear and out the other.
Indifference tames the Spirit, dulls the conscience, transforms rituals into routines. Yes, even God can become mundane and routine that we take the Source of our lives for granted. Jesus will have none of this superficial way of living.
Jesus is clearly pronouncing a judgement on those of us who turn the gift of faith into something bland, beige and lifeless. The cities that are known as “sin cities” will have it easier than Jesus’ own people!!! Let’s hope that Jesus will never have to say, “Woe to you Chicago,” or “Woe to you Orland Park (I just came from there; seemed quite nice)” or “Woe to you Rome, Sidney, New York, Santiago, wherever.”
How has your relationship with Christ become lost its purpose or meaning?
Peace,
Fr. Frank