As we embark on this spiritual journey, let’s consider a profound question that serves as our compass: How can we internalize and reflect the Scripture’s call to “Have the same attitude that was in Christ Jesus”? How can we walk in Christ’s footsteps, as depicted in Saint Paul’s Letter to the Philippians? These questions form the heart of my reflection today, lending us a divine roadmap to navigate these profound biblical teachings.
Enduring Love
Ezekiel 18:25-28 is like a celestial canvas, vividly depicting God’s attitude. It is a divine response to human skepticism about God’s unique brand of justice and fairness. We often question God’s fairness when we see suffering, crime, or decay persisting. More so, we wonder about God’s radical compassion when a sinner, guilty as charged, steps into the tribunal of mercy and receives healing grace akin to the righteous.
However, God’s response is like a lighthouse, radiating hope and justice amidst stormy seas. Even when redemption seems like a distant star in the vast cosmos of human understanding, God’s enduring patience stands tall like an ancient oak, bearing witness to His everlasting grace.
The aim of divine justice isn’t to condemn but to extend an olive branch of redemption. From this, we glean one facet of God’s attitude — ‘enduring love.’ This kind of love follows us into the deepest trenches, refusing to abandon us even when we feel lost in life’s labyrinth. Only when God is finite would our sins outlive His mercy. But the reality is that God is infinite, and His mercy endures forever (Jeremiah 33:11; Psalm 136:1-3).
Humility
The second reading from Philippians (Phil 2:1-11 or 2:1-5) is like a clarion call echoing through the valleys, urging us to cultivate the same attitude that was in Christ Jesus. He humbled Himself, becoming obedient to the point of death. He poured his life for us, a radical self-emptying. This passage challenges us to mirror Christ’s selfless love and service, layered through the substructure of pure humility.
Our response to God’s grace should be humility, serving as an anchor against the storm of presumption that we have all the answers. A response in humility is cultivating Christ’s attitude. We must realize that God’s workings are as profound as the ocean’s depths, eluding our attempts at precise prediction. The assumption that we can fully comprehend who God is mirrors the arrogance of a scientist believing they have deciphered all the universe’s mysteries.
Understanding God demands humility. It is comparable to quietly listening to the whispers of a gentle breeze, even amidst a raging storm. In a recent sermon, I touched upon the radical mercy of God. This concept bridges mercy and a humble heart; divine mercy and grace are an assured gift (James 4:6). I invite us to meditate on this understanding. If we accept all God does in our lives with humility and obedient listening, God reveals His magnificent glory to us.
Here is another solid biblical evidence for the above claim. The Lord Jesus, though divine, did not cling to His equality with God. Instead, He emptied Himself, taking on the form of a servant. Consequently, exaltation followed. Thus, following in his footsteps, our invitation is to embrace his humble declaration, “God’s will be done; I have come to do Your will.” Another way to express this sentiment is: “Your will, Lord, is my delight” (Psalm 40:8). It is clear that Scripture emphasizes the primacy of obedience over sacrifices (1 Samuel 15:22).
The Attitude of Joyful Obedience
Finally, the Gospel from Matthew (Mt 21:28-32) presents the parable of two sons. It draws a stark line between mere words’ response to divine invitation and tangible actions. It reminds us that voicing our willingness to execute God’s will isn’t enough; we must translate our faith proclamations into deeds. This reminder resonates deeply with our reflection on Christ’s joyful obedience. Jesus didn’t just say yes; he did what he said he would.
In conclusion, today’s reflections beckon us to embody the divine attitude of unwavering love, humility, and obedience. It’s not just about our sacrifices; it’s about finding joy in God’s will and patiently awaiting His guidance. As we strive to mirror Christ’s attitude, remember that His steadfast love and mercy are our guiding stars, illuminating our path toward holiness.
[Readings: Ezekiel 18:25-28; Philippians 2:1-11; Matthew 21:28-32]
I read and re-read your conclusion. I struggle with finding joy in my struggles. Thank you for nudging me to appreciate the moment and know that God is good and merciful.