Word to the Wise
Tuesday, November 20, 2007 - Thirty-third Tuesday in Ordinary Time
[2 Maccabees 6:18-31 and Luke 19:1-10]"At our age it would be unbecoming to make such a pretense; many young people would think the ninety-year-old Eleazar had gone over to an alien religion. Should I thus pretend for the sake of a brief moment of life, they would be led astray by me, while I would bring shame and dishonor on my old age. Even if, for the time being, I avoid the punishment of men, I shall never, whether alive or dead, escape the hands of the almighty."
The story of Eleazar's refusal to eat pork or even pretend to eat it is inspiring still these many centuries later. The descendants of Alexander the Great's generals, who divided up the empire after Alexander's death, attempted to install Greek culture and religious practices in Israel. When certain pious Jews publicly protested the imposition of such things as the nude athletic events and various dietary practices, they were ordered to eat pork or be executed. Today's scripture presents one of these heroes. As far as I'm concerned this is a classic example of integrity! Eleazar could have escaped execution if he were willing to let the public officials save face by his pretending to eat pork. But his response is clear and unambiguous. To violate his beliefs would bring disgrace on himself, give bad example, and render him severely accountable to God. We need more people like him, especially in public life! AMEN
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