February 1, 2009: 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time

The readings at first seem oddly unrelated, but I think that maybe what ties them together is the idea of “Promise and Fulfillment.” God’s ancient promise of “a prophet like Moses” to accompany the people in difficult times (given in the first reading) is “fulfilled” in the Gospel reading, where even the unclean spirits can recognize “The Holy One of God.” It’s important to remember that Moses had received his commission because the people were “afraid” to go up onto Mt. Sinai, themselves. And it is often “fear” that keeps us finding our peace in God—fear that we won’t be good enough, or smart enough, or pious enough. The point of the Gospel is that the Power of God working through His Christ can cast out that fear that would alienate us from God and each other. So, what is it that keeps “you” from feeling fulfilled in God? What are you afraid you don’t have? Let’s pray for trust in the One Who supplies all needs and casts out all fear.