Today’s first reading smacks of anger and resentment. Filled with vitriol, the wicked plot against the just one. Why? Because he makes them look bad? Because he pricks their consciences and makes them question their behavior? Who does he think he is? Banishment isn’t enough. They want to condemn him to a shameful death as punishment for daring to throw their shortcomings into sharp relief. The mob fails to realize that they’re blinded by sin and a drive to feed their own appetites. Little do they realize that the innocent soul will receive an even greater reward from God.
I recognize myself in the wicked who find the just one so obnoxious. Sometimes people irritate me when they set the bar high, shut down juicy gossip, show kindness to those who are difficult to like, or give generously of their time and resources. Where do these feelings of irritation—and even anger and dislike—come from? Are these negative feelings toward others keeping me from taking an honest look at myself?
Probably. Should I really be asking questions like: Why did I say that? Where did that thought come from? Why didn’t I (fill in the blank)? Why don’t I give people the benefit of the doubt more often? What could I have done instead? These are all great questions to take to prayer.
After bringing these questions to God, I might ask for His help to do better. I might also ask for the wisdom and courage to live like the just one, despite external pressures to do otherwise.
