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Weeds & wheat
Homily for 20 July, 16th Sunday, Cycle A
In the gospel, Jesus proposes to us an answer to the problem. The master in the story has the power to send his workers out to rip up the weeds. He could do it without hesitation, and since the entire harvest belongs to him, he would have the right to do it.
God is truly powerful. But God is so powerful that he can afford to be merciful. You may know from your own experience that the truly powerful rarely have to exercise their power. It is only the weak that must constantly prove themselves. But God has nothing to prove, and he best displays his power when he reveals his mercy.
It’s just as the author of the book of Wisdom tells us in the first reading. Addressing God, he says:
“But though you are the master of might, you judge with clemency, and with much lenience you govern us. And you taught your people, by these deeds, that those who are just must also be kind; and you gave your children good ground for hope that you would permit repentance for their sins.” (Wis 12:18-19)
God does not send his workers into the field to rip up the weeds because some of the wheat might be damaged by it. He forbears. He withholds his judgment. He reveals his power through the exercise of his mercy.
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