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Reflection on this Sunday's scripture readings
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Jeremiah 17:5-8 Psalm 1 1Corinthians.15:12, 16-20 Luke 6:17, 20-26.
Today's readings are full of contrasts. Jeremiah has been speaking out against Judah's infidelity to the covenant with God. In this passage the prophet's message that God is our only true refuge comes in the form of blessing and curse, strikingly similar to the responsorial Psalm. Those who trust in God will flourish whereas those who trust in human beings will ultimately perish.
In Luke's version of the Sermon on the Mount Jesus addresses a mixed crowd with a teaching about blessings and woes. Being blessed or belonging to "the poor of God" does not come from belonging to a certain social class but from following Jesus in the kingdom which he is bringing about. Woes are addressed to those with wealth, who are carefree and held in high esteem. They can only become members of "the poor of God" provided they share what they have with those in need.
What do these readings say to us today - as individuals and as a community? Where do we place our trust? Are we ready to be followers of Jesus and share what we have with those who have less?