Word to the Wise
Wednesday, July 4, 2007 - Thirteenth Wednesday in Ordinary Time
[Genesis 21: 5, 8-20A and Matthew 8:28-34]What is the matter,Hagar? Don't be afraid; God has heard the boy's cry in this plight of is.
The scripture revisits the ongoing conflict between Sarah and Hagar. Despite the soap opera between the two moms, God remains consistent. Isaac will be the one who will continue the covenant, but Ishmael will not suffer. Christianity may be the largest religious family on the planet, but we know it is not the only one. Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism and other religious traditions are neighbors on this planet. It is true that all of these traditions may contain what Vatican Council II calls "rays of truth." However, God's providence has made salvation possible for all, whether Christian or not by the mission of Jesus. The children of Ishmael fall into this category. Perhaps, on this Independence Day, we Americans, who tend to have a messianic attitude, might remember that it is not up to us to save the world. God will provide for the other tribes. We are not the chosen people, either as Americans or Christians. We are simply called to be disciples and to proclaim the word of God. We cannot wrap it in "red, white and blue." God is not a nationalist. All other human beings are made in the same image and likeness as we are. Remembering that may save us another war! AMEN
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