The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, August 28, 2001
The Twenty-First Week in Ordinary Time
St. Augustine
Complete story: http://www.christdesert.org/public_texts/martyrology/
Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
Psalm 139:1-6
Matthew 23:23-26
Full text: http://www.nccbuscc.org/nab/index.htm
A Reflection on Today's Scripture:
There are two kinds of criticism: justified and unjustified. In
today's first reading, certain people in Thessalonika are criticizing
Paul's motives in preaching, saying that he is in it for the money.
Paul, a very sensitive person, becomes angry. It's so easy for us to
sympathize with Paul, for we have often been the objects of unjust
criticism. How does he react? St. Paul answers their charge clearly
and logically. But he does it in a manner that preserves charity
towards his accusers. This is a model for Christians. Justice permits
us to answer criticism, but charity demands a measured response that
will not destroy a fruitful relationship with those who accuse us.
Jesus himself accuses the Pharisees of a wrong interpretation of the
Law. His criticism is justified, and seeks to change their hearts as
well as their judgments. Was He successful? There were surely some of
the Pharisees who heeded his words, and altered their opinions. May
we ourselves always take care how we criticize -- always to be sure
of our facts, and to suggest positive alternatives to another's
actions, opinions, or speech.
- Msgr. Paul Whitmore <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
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