Readings: Job 1:6-22 Ps. 17:1-3,6-7, Luke 9:46-50
“Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me; for he who is least among you all is the one who is great.” (Luke 9:48)
The story of Job raises many questions. Not only does it challenge our traditional understanding of God as incapable of evil, but it also gives the impression that Satan is part of God’s cabinet. How can God permit Satan to torment Job? Can we say God is indirectly responsible for the evil in the world by permitting Satan?
Our Gospel passage today answers these questions. The disciples of Jesus argue about who is the greatest, and Jesus shocks them by bringing a child before them. The best way to approach God is with a childlike attitude that believes without doubting.
Job was not privileged to attend the meeting where his matter was discussed. Little did he know that his unfortunate circumstance was not coincidental. Job had no idea that he was being tested. Yet, he passed the test. We are told: “In all these, Job did not sin or charge God with wrong.”
Job’s success came from his childlike attitude and his willingness to accept things as they are. Seen from our human perspective, the world is not perfect. Like Job, we are not privileged to see the big picture; our knowledge is limited, and we do not know if we are being tested. So, if we begin to question everything, we could fail the test.
We need to learn the childlike attitude of Job to accept things as they are: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb and naked I shall return…” One distinguishing characteristic of children is purity of heart. Ensure that regardless of your trials, your heart remains pure. Let not your troubles lead you to bitterness, cursing or hatred of anyone.
Another aspect of receiving God’s kingdom like a child is knowing that God is the Father of many children. Do not assume that you are the only child God has. For instance, the disciples were shocked to realise someone was casting out demons in Jesus’ name even though he was not among the twelve disciples. As Jesus said to the disciples, “He that is not against you is for you.”
The fact that a man could cast out demons with the name of Jesus even though he wasn’t part of the twelve is a pointer to the power in the name of Jesus. St. Paul was absolutely correct when he said: “At the name of Jesus every knee bows, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:10-11).
The name of Jesus is powerful, so powerful that as long as we use it with faith, the name works regardless of our personal holiness or perfection. Are you facing difficult times? Call on the name of Jesus. Pray over whatever situation you are in and expect things to turn around for your good. Avoid complaining. Pray instead, and believe that no matter how bad your circumstances may seem, God still loves you deeply.
The story of Job represents the writer’s attempt to use a relatable example to drive home some theological truths. The devil has no business in God’s cabinet. Light and darkness do not mix. This story tells us that even when we are holy and God-fearing, our righteousness does not shield us from unfortunate circumstances. It also teaches us never to assume that everyone going through a sad time is being punished for their sins.
Bad things happen to everyone sometimes, even when we are careful. We cannot stop the rain from falling on the day we need the sun, but we can also choose how to react. The story of Job provides a template for us. It teaches us to exercise patience and keep faith alive in tough times. Do not curse God when things go south. Hold on. God sees. God knows. God understands. Your days of laughter will come.
Let us pray: O God, who manifest your almighty power above all by pardoning and showing mercy, bestow, we pray, your grace abundantly upon us and make those hastening to attain your promises heirs to the treasures of heaven. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Monday of week 26 in Ordinary Time. Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Job 1:6-22 Ps. 17:1-3,6-7, Luke 9:46-50)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu