Thursday of week 11 in Ordinary Time
Ecclesiasticus 48:1-15
Psalm 96(97):1-7
Matthew 6:7-15
In today’s first reading, we are presented with the impact of the fiery prophet Elijah on Israel. Kings and nobles are brought low, food becomes scarce, and the people are battered and bruised. At the same time, a dead person is raised from the netherworld and new prophets are established.
Elijah himself is taken up into heaven in a fiery chariot and will return to put an end to wrath before the day of the Lord. Elijah was remarkable because of his relationship with God, realized through prayer.
In today’s gospel, Jesus shows us the way to authentic prayer. Jesus tells them they don’t need to babble on endlessly because God already knows their needs. It is within that relationship of trust that we do his will, make our request known daily, receive forgiveness, and also forgive others; then our prayer becomes effective and nourishing.
While our world is often enough battered by the chaos described in the Book of Sirach, the Gospel reminds us that an authentic relationship with God is achieved through prayer and authentic following in the footsteps of Christ.
Fr Joseph Osho
