Working together, we can achieve far more and help to create a peaceful and just world. Here’s today’s reflection from the daily Mass.
BIBLE READINGS: You can find the readings Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent can be found here
“If you don’t have a seat at the table, you’re probably on the menu,” is a well-known phrase used in all kinds of settings—from the business world to community work, and has certainly been adopted by Citizens UK, a community organising alliance active in our own communities.
In the prophecy of Isaiah, God identifies the shortcomings of the people of Sodom and Gomorrah, and offers them a new way forward. “Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes; cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.” But, more than simply denouncing their sinful ways and throwing down a set of rules to live by, he invites them into a situation which is even more dynamic, relational and engaging. “Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord.” He is willing to sit alongside them and work things out together.
In the gospel reading, Jesus establishes a level playing field. He refuses to be impressed by the outward show and hypocrisy of the Pharisees of the time, who use their power and position to burden others. Greatness is not achieved by clinging to power and keeping others in their place and away from the table, but by humbling ourselves and serving one another. Everyone should have a place at the table. It is that space of open dialogue, respect and care, as listen to one another and work things out together. On our own, we can do little. But together, we can build friendships and dispel fear. Jesus shows us how to do it, right here at the Eucharist, where all have a place at the table.
Mass today is at S Mary’s Church at 630pm, followed by our Lent Course at 7pm
DAY BY DAY
If you’d like more resources for daily prayer then check out our DAY BY DAY pages.
South Cardiff Ministry Area 