PARTY LINE
God told the Israelites to have a yearlong party every fiftieth year. This jubilee celebration was not an expression of self-indulgence, but of restoration, justice, peace, and freedom. In the jubilee year, land was restored to its original owner, slaves were freed, and the people celebrated a year of rest and recreation. Although the Israelites had a difficult time consistently celebrating the jubilee year, Jesus promised that He would make every year a jubilee year (Lk 4:19).
In today's Gospel reading, we have another kind of party: Herod's birthday party. This short party of just a day or two started off as an expression of self-indulgence and pride, and then turned into murder. Herod, Herodias, and Salome had John the Baptizer beheaded and brought his head in on a platter (Mt 14:11).
The jubilee year begins with the Day of Atonement (Lv 25:9). We forgive those who have hurt us and ask God to forgive us as we forgive others (Mt 6:12). Which party do you want to attend: Herod's birthday party or the jubilee year? By repentance and forgiveness we come to the jubilee year. If we refuse to repent and forgive, if we harbor a grudge (Mk 6:19), or nurse bitterness (Heb 12:15), we choose Herod's birthday party. Repent, forgive, and choose the Lord's party (Lk 4:18-19).
Oración: Father, may I never let the sun set on my anger, jealousy, bitterness, resentment, or unforgiveness (Eph 4:26).
Promesa: "Do not deal unfairly, then; but stand in fear of your God." —Lv 25:17
Alabanza: Loyalty to the Church in both her teaching and authority was a high priority for St. Peter. He fought constantly against paganism and abuses in his time.
Referencia: (For a related teaching, order our leaflet, Fourteen Questions on Forgiveness, or our audio tapes on Unforgiveness, AV 106A-1, AV 106A-3, AV 106B-1 or our video V-106A, V-106B.)
Rescripto: †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 1, 2011
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