25th Sunday Ordinary Time - Year B


THE WISDOM THAT COMES FROM HEAVEN

James might be called the "Apostle of Social Justice". He preaches a strong message about defending the rights of the oppressed. In today's reading he contrasts earthly with heavenly wisdom. Worldly wisdom dictates that success must be financial gain, achieved by any means. Divine wisdom teaches the value of peace. We become righteous--having a right relationship with God--by curbing selfish desires and ambition.

Let us put him to the test let us condemn him to death

 

The harvest of justice is sewn in peace for those who cultivate peace

Whoever receives one child receives me.


WHO WAS THE GREATEST?

At first, Jesus' apostles may have joined him in the hope that he was a political revolutionary. They thought that he would launch a rebellion and set up a new kingdom in Israel. This helps us understand the un-saintly arrogance in their quarrel today. Jesus has specifically rejected any political motives. The apostles hear only what they want. They anticipate holding prominent offices in the new reign to come. We must remember that saints are first of all, human beings. They begin with the same ambitions and failings that we have, but rise above them.

Related: Resources on Sunday Readings - Clipart, homelies, articles, coloring pages, music: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John

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