30 August 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

First Reading Jer 20:7-9 Despite discouragement, God’s word burns in Jeremiahs’s heart

Second Reading Rom 12:1-2 Offer yourself as a living sacrifice

REFLECTION by Dianne Bergant CSA

The gospel does not say that Jesus will gallantly step forward, take suffering upon himself, and thus demonstrate his power. Instead, his fate will be a demonstration of his vulnerability. He will be taken forcibly and will suffer at the hands of others. He will do this willingly, but not as a volunteer. Jesus will be a victim. This picture of Jesus carries implications for discipleship. Whoever follows him must follow him to the cross. If we participate in his success, we must also share in his shame. Disciples have a choice to follow or not to follow, but if they choose in his favour they must be ready for suffering and humiliation.

Paul exhorts us to reject the standards of the world. This is a very difficult path to follow, especially when it seems that those who conform to this age prosper. Following Christ can place barriers between ourselves and others. If we no longer share their values and their interests, we may feel alienated. Suffering is bound to invade our ministerial lives as well. We must remember that Jesus’ message antagonised many people in his day. Those who proclaim the same message in their own contexts must be prepared for a similar reaction.

After witnessing the marvellous feats that Jesus accomplished, we discover that he is going to suffer and be put to death. How can this be? With Peter we protest. With Jeremiah we wonder: Have we been duped? The realisation that we too will have to suffer becomes a crucial test of our faith.