Isaiah 48:17-19, Psalm 1:1-4, 6, Matthew 11:16-19
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/121109.shtml
THE GAMES PEOPLE PLAY
"They are like children squatting in the town squares, calling to their
playmates." —Matthew 11:16
Jesus compares us to children who are upset because their playmates won't
play their games. The first game the children wanted to play was called
"dance" (Mt 11:17). Most children love to dance, but their playmates
didn't play. Next, they wanted to play a scary game like "funeral" (see Mt
11:17). Children will copy almost any adult activity, even a funeral.
Again their playmates didn't want to play. This upset the children, and
Jesus says we are like those children.
The people of Jesus' time wanted John the Baptizer to play the game
"relax." John decided to fast instead. They wanted Jesus to play
"self-righteousness." Jesus refused to play and instead ate with tax
collectors and sinners. This made the people angry, and they rejected both
John and Jesus.
Many people today love to play games called "self-deception,"
"self-indulgence," and "self-fulfillment." Jesus again refuses to play.
Instead, He calls us to repentance, self-sacrifice, and carrying our daily
cross. This turns us off; we feel like rejecting Jesus.
What games will we play this Christmas? What will we do if Jesus refuses
to play? Will we reject Jesus and try to have Christmas without Him?
Prayer: Father, may I quit trying to boss Jesus around.
Promise: "I, the Lord, your God, teach you what is for your good, and lead
you on the way you should go." —Is 48:17
Praise: Pope St. Damasus continued to inspire others after his death by
the proclamation on his tomb affirming both Christ's resurrection and his
own.
(For a related teaching, order our leaflet on "Accepting Jesus as Lord,
Savior, and God" or on audio AV 43-1 or video V-43.)
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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my
permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from
December 1, 2009 through January 31, 2010
†Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of
Cincinnati, June 4, 2009
The rescript is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be
free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have
granted ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or
statements expressed.
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