Scripture Study for

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Understanding the Word

By Br. John R. Barker, OFM

Having delivered Israel from Egypt, God now sets forth the  expectations of the covenantal relationship. Chief among them is a concern for the vulnerable, especially, but not only, aliens (non-Israelites  residing on Israelite land), widows, and orphans (that is, children without  fathers). Without an adult male Israelite relation to defend them, these  people were particularly vulnerable to injustice and fraud. The poor in general were also subject to manipulation and exploitation. In Israel  God is creating a just, compassionate society that reflects the divine character by ensuring that the defenseless are protected. The disturbing  threat of sword and “poetic justice” for those who abuse widows and  orphans emphasizes the strength of divine concern for them. 

Despite “great affliction” the Thessalonians have persevered in  imitating Paul, who in turn has imitated Christ. The gospel has  transformed their entire worldview, and their new lives of faith have  been such that others have observed and been edified as they spread  the gospel not only in words but through their example. The gospel,  which had been received “in power . . . with much conviction”  has brought joy, hope, and conversion to the Thessalonians. This  transformation is part of the content of their witness to the gospel;  they have become “a model for all believers.” This, despite, or  perhaps because of, the “great affliction” that they have nevertheless  endured with “joy from the Holy Spirit.” 

The question put to Jesus about the greatest commandment is  presented as a test, although we are not told in what the test consists.  We know that there was a tradition of pointing toward certain  commandments as in effect summing up all of the Law and the  prophets. Therefore Jesus’ response by quoting first Deuteronomy 6:5  and then Leviticus 19:18 would probably not have been controversial,  and indeed he receives no rebuttal from the Pharisees. It is interesting  to note that the second commandment is “like” the first in that they  both command “love,” understood in the biblical sense not as an  emotion so much as a committed stance. For God, it means devotion  and wholehearted commitment. For neighbor, it means commitment to their good, and seeking to help them when they need it.

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