Hosea 8:4-7, 11-13 / Matthew 9:32-38
In almost every organization, there are levels of hierarchy.
In this hierarchy, there is a superior-subordinate relationship at every level.
The subordinate has the responsibility of carrying out the instructions of the superior.
The subordinate also has the responsibility of informing the superior of any development, as well as seeking permission for any initiatives.
Tensions will arise when the subordinate disobeys the superior and does whatever he wants without informing the superior.
In the first reading, the Lord says this of His people:
They have set up kings, but not with my consent, and appointed princes but without my knowledge.
In other words, the people disobeyed God and were unfaithful to Him.
Punishment was inevitable, and it is the people who brought the tragedy upon themselves.
In the gospel, Jesus cast out the dumb demoniac from a man, and he began to speak.
It was also a sign that the people should open their mouths in prayer and communicate with God.
Jesus taught us how to pray. In the gospel, He also taught us what to pray for.
He said, “The harvest is rich but the labourers are few, so ask the Lord of the harvest to send labourers to his harvest.”
The Lord our God has called us and He is sending us into the world.
May we teach the world to acknowledge God as Creator and to obey Him and do His will.