Tuesday, June 19, 2012

11th Week, Ordinary Time, Wednesday, 20-06-12

2 Kings 2:1, 6-14 / Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

In some ethnic cultures, it is a tradition that the first-born son has a birth-right.

This birth-right would consist of, among other things, a double share of the inheritance, i.e. one more share than the rest of his siblings.

But with that comes a duty and responsibility - that first-born son will have to continue where the father has left off, whether be it in terms of family reputation or family wealth.

In the 1st reading, we hear of Elisha asking Elijah for a "double share of his spirit" before he was taken away from Elisha.

Elisha was already a disciple of Elijah; he now wanted to continue the mission of being a prophet just like Elijah, and to continue where Elijah left off.

Hence he asked for a double share of Elijah's spirit of prophecy, and that would include speaking the Word of God and working miracles.

Yet these gifts come with a duty and responsibility. And one can be easily tempted to use these gifts for self gain and glory.

Hence in the gospel, Jesus warns us about the temptation to attract attention and get praised by people.

The teaching that we must remember from Jesus is this: Your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you.

The reward from God will be our everlasting inheritance.