Year A: 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time

 First Reading: Isaiah 56: 1, 6-7

Prejudice against outsiders is as old as history. In may ways, it is a natural reaction. We feel comfortable with people who share our background - our culture - who speak the same language.

Where people have suffered at the hands of other races and nations, they are even more likely to be suspicious of the foreigner and this was the case that Isaiah was addressing in the First Reading chosen to echo the Gospel.

The Jewish people were in exile. They had lost the kingdom built up by David and Solomon, They had lost their land - and were in danger of losing their identity.

Isaiah strives to rebuild their sense of faith and community - and speaks of God’s promise to draw His scattered people together again - on His holy mountain.

However, he is not going to create a fortress there - designed to house only the Jewish people. The sanctuary is to be open to all who love and serve God. their service and sacrifices will be as acceptable as those of His Chosen People.

This is indeed Good News for us!

Because of our faith in Jesus and our desire to love and to serve God, we have become “descendants of Abraham” - inheritors of all the promises that God has made throughout history.

We will not be left at the door of the Kingdom - but are invited inside to share the Banquet of the Lord.

What does it mean for me?

Who are the people who share the Eucharistic banquet with you week by week? Who will be joining you at the Eternal banquet in the Kingdom of heaven?

Text © 2007 Wellspring

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