"If this day you only knew what makes for peace—
but now it is hidden from your eyes."
LUKE 19 : 42
These poignant words resonate with a sense of longing and mystery. They evoke the idea that sometimes, the path to peace remains elusive, concealed from our understanding. Perhaps it speaks to the complexities of life, where clarity and serenity often elude us, even when we seek them earnestly.
As Jesus drew near Jerusalem, he saw the city and wept over it, saying, “If this day you only knew what makes for peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. For the days are coming upon you when your enemies will raise a palisade against you; they will encircle you and hem you in on all sides. They will smash you to the ground and your children within you, and they will not leave one stone upon another within you because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.” (Luke 19:41-44)
In this enigmatic verse, there lies both a lament and a challenge. It invites us to reflect on what truly brings peace—whether it’s inner stillness, reconciliation, or understanding. And yet, despite our yearning, there are moments when that knowledge remains veiled, just beyond our grasp. May we continue to seek wisdom, even when it seems hidden. Perhaps one day, the shroud will lift, and peace will reveal itself in unexpected ways.
He is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law of commandments and ordinances, that He might create in Himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby bringing the hostility to an end. And He came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; for through Him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. (Ephesians 2: 14 - 18)
Solemn words echo through time, serves as a reminder of our moral compass and the principles that guide us. The law and commandments, whether religious or ethical, serve as beacons—illuminating the path toward justice, compassion, and righteousness. In their observance lies our collective well-being, a safeguard against chaos and moral drift. To forsake them would be to lose our way, drifting in a sea of uncertainty.
The officers of the king in charge of enforcing the apostasy came to the city of Modein to organize the sacrifices. Many of Israel joined them, but Mattathias and his sons gathered in a group apart. Then the officers of the king addressed Mattathias: “You are a leader, an honorable and great man in this city, supported by sons and kin. Come now, be the first to obey the king’s command, as all the Gentiles and the men of Judah and those who are left in Jerusalem have done. Then you and your sons shall be numbered among the King’s Friends, and shall be enriched with silver and gold and many gifts.” But Mattathias answered in a loud voice: “Although all the Gentiles in the king’s realm obey him, so that each forsakes the religion of his fathers and consents to the king’s orders, yet I and my sons and my kin will keep to the covenant of our fathers. God forbid that we should forsake the law and the commandments. We will not obey the words of the king nor depart from our religion in the slightest degree.” As he finished saying these words, a certain Jew came forward in the sight of all to offer sacrifice on the altar in Modein according to the king’s order. When Mattathias saw him, he was filled with zeal; his heart was moved and his just fury was aroused; he sprang forward and killed him upon the altar. At the same time, he also killed the messenger of the king who was forcing them to sacrifice, and he tore down the altar. Thus he showed his zeal for the law, just as Phinehas did with Zimri, son of Salu. Then Mattathias went through the city shouting, “Let everyone who is zealous for the law and who stands by the covenant follow after me!” Thereupon he fled to the mountains with his sons, leaving behind in the city all their possessions. Many who sought to live according to righteousness and religious custom went out into the desert to settle there. (1 Maccabees 2:15-29)
May we hold fast to these ancient truths, cherishing the wisdom they impart. For in their embrace, we find not only guidance but also a connection to something greater—a shared understanding that transcends time and place.
The word of the Lord resonate with devotion and reverence. They call upon us to express gratitude and honor through our actions. In offering praise, we acknowledge the divine and fulfill our promises to the One who transcends all.
God the Lord has spoken and summoned the earth, from the rising of the sun to its setting. From Zion, perfect in beauty, God shines forth. “Gather my faithful ones before me, those who have made a covenant with me by sacrifice.” And for the heavens proclaim his justice; for God himself is the judge. “Offer to God praise as your sacrifice and fulfill your vows to the Most High; Then call upon me in time of distress; I will rescue you, and you shall glorify me.” (Psalm 50:1-2, 5-6, 14-15)
May our hearts be open, our voices lifted, and our deeds aligned with this sacred call. For in our offerings, we find connection—a bridge between the earthly and the divine.
Pericope:
VI: The Teaching Ministry in Jerusalem
THE LAMENT FOR JERUSALEM
Luke 19:41-44
II: The Maccabean Revolt
PAGAN WORSHIP REFUSED
1 Maccabees 2:15-29
Second Book of Psalms 42-72
THE ACCEPTABLE SACRIFICE
Psalm 50:1-23
Reflection Source:
Microsoft Bing
Published:
November 22, 2012
October 19, 2010
