On the Twenty-ninth Sunday in Strange Time, the Gospel reminded us to be unceasing in expressing gratitude for God’s actions in our lives. Today, we’re reminded to be unceasing in our demand for justice. As we near election day, the message and implications of today’s Gospel are powerful, as they need to encourage us to be proactive and protracted in our fight against injustice.
“I shall deliver a just decision for her lest she finally come and strike me” (Lk 18:5).
Liturgical day
Twenty-ninth Sunday in Strange Time (C)
Readings
Ex 17:8-13, Ps 121, 2 Tm 3:14-4:2, Lk 18:1-8
Prayer
Are you consistent in advocating for individuals who are most in need?
What are you able to do to create a more just society?
How are you going to use your power to fight corruption?
On this Sunday’s reading from Luke’s Gospel, Jesus shares a parable along with his followers that focuses on two people, a corrupt judge and a persistent woman. The judge is claimed to not fear God or humanity. He misuses his position of power and doesn’t deal justly or equitably along with his community. The lady is described as a widow who consistently advocates for justice. She calls on the judge to “render a just decision for me against my adversary.” Her persistence eventually convinces the judge to deal justly and truthfully along with her.
The parable is framed for instance of persistent prayer. Jesus uses the story to show his disciples “to hope all the time without becoming weary.” He highlights the girl’s repeated actions that cause the judge to alter his ways. Although the importance of prayer is a recurring theme in Luke’s Gospel, this parable can offer us greater than a model for praying. It’s a model for methods to change norms and address corruption.
Within the face of corrupt leadership, the girl is unceasing in her fight for justice, and we have to be the identical.
The lady’s advocacy for justice is consistent with Jesus’ message and ministry, which frequently concentrate on those that are disenfranchised and on the margins of society. As a lady and a widow, she would have had very limited access to justice, as men would have had legal standing above her. Yet the Gospel offers a crucial, countercultural image of a lady fighting for herself and successfully overcoming corruption. This woman embodies the Gospel message of justice and equity, and we must always be inspired to do the identical. The lady raises her voice for herself, a degree to not be missed. The parable reminds us to advocate for ourselves, especially within the face of corruption.
While the girl’s persistent fight is admirable, the necessity for her repeated demands is alarming and highlights the extent to which this judge disregards his duties. As a widow, the girl would have been amongst probably the most vulnerable in society, which must have been a motivator for the judge to deal justly along with her. Unfortunately, he resists, only giving in after increased pressure.
As we approach election day on Nov. 8, the image of such corruption in power has unlucky resonances. This Gospel can encourage us to be thoughtful and vigilant in reviewing and electing candidates for office. We’re reminded of the Gospel call to assist those that are vulnerable and most in need. We’re also reminded to acknowledge our power and skill to effect change. Within the face of corrupt leadership, the girl is unceasing in her fight for justice, and we have to be the identical.
