The first reading comes from the end of the book of Deuteronomy. We read a short testimony about Moses’ death, in the beautiful verse:
Since then, no prophet has arisen in Israel like Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face. (Dt. 34: 10)
What does it mean to be face-to-face? In Hebrew, face is translated as Paniym (or panim). Some Hebrew translations even claim it is better translated as mouth-to-mouth. Whether face or mouth, the implication is clear: it is close, remarkably close, in fact, it is quite intimate. When we are face-to-face, there is no distance between us. We are vulnerable, open, and ready to receive. This is the kind of unity our Lord seeks with each of us.
Reconciliation
Let us consider the etymology of another word described in the Gospel reading. Matthew talks about the steps of fraternal correction and then segues into the power of the sacrament of Reconciliation. The word reconciliation comes from “reconcilien” meaning “to restore to union and friendship” or “to bring together again.” I heard a beautiful talk during a Lenten retreat where the priest mentioned that the word reconciliation, contains the word “cilia” meaning eyelash. He said when we go to confess our sins in the sacrament of Reconciliation, we are, eyelash-to-eyelash, with our Lord. What powerful imagery! We know that when we sin, we turn away from his beautiful face. How beautiful, not only to return to this closeness with Him, but that He invites us to this restored intimacy again and again.
Both the Old and New Testament readings today express God’s longing to be with us. He continues to chase after us, desiring that closeness, that unity, that sweet communion. Let us remember that the nature of the Trinity is the model for all the Church and our relationships – intimacy with no obstacles, sin, or resentments among us.
Soul on Fire: Today’s Prayer
Pray for a moment in this image of being face-to-face, mouth-to-mouth, eyelash-to-eyelash with Jesus:
Feel His forehead touching yours,
His eyes looking deeply into yours,
the brush of His lashes over yours.
Feel His breath upon your face,
Let your breath and then your heartbeat match His.
Do not let any sin or obstacle block you from this closeness with Jesus. If any hindrance exists, express your repentance, and determine to go and receive His forgiveness in the sacrament of Reconciliation at the next opportunity. Spend time basking in this eyelash-to-eyelash encounter with Him. Then, when you next receive the sacrament of Holy Communion, may your heart, like that of the Psalmist, echo: Blessed be God who fills my soul with fire!
