The Danger of a Single Story

Saturday, 9th September 2023. Read Colossians 1:21-23, Ps. 54:3-4,6,8, Luke 6:1-5

“The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.” (Luke 6:5)

Many years ago, scientists thought that the Earth was flat and was the centre of the solar system. This view seemed to fit in with the story of creation in the Bible and the belief that Humans were the centre of the universe. During his research, Nicolaus Copernicus, a Polish mathematician and astronomer (also a canon in the Church), suggested that contrary to popular opinion, the sun was the centre of the solar system. At the same time, the Earth and other planetary bodies orbit around it.

Years later, Galileo Galilei (a scientist, mathematician, and astronomer), while working with telescopes he had invented, had evidence to prove that Copernicus was right. Galileo came into serious conflict with the Church for holding such views. He was considered a heretic and was put under house arrest when he refused to recant his views. Today, the latest scientific discoveries have vindicated both Galileo and Copernicus.

One Sabbath, while Jesus and his disciples were walking through the cornfields, they plucked ears of corn, rubbed them in their hands and ate them. This action was considered a sin against the third commandment by the Pharisees, who immediately pronounced judgment on Jesus and his disciples.

Jesus cited the case of David, who ate the showbread (meant for the priests alone) and even gave some to his followers. However, Jesus’ explanation fell on deaf ears. The Pharisees had concluded that, for this, Jesus must die. During his trial, one of the false witnesses mentioned the issue of breaking the Sabbath Law, thereby equating himself to God. It was only after the resurrection of Jesus that it dawned on the world that Jesus was Lord of the Sabbath.

What lessons do we learn from this? Avoid the single story. It is easy to point fingers, accuse others, and condemn them when we do not know the whole story. The fact that “everybody says so” does not mean they are right. Do not get carried away by public opinion. Be open to the truth, and be ready to shift ground. Learn to ask yourself: “What if I am wrong?”

Ironically, these Pharisees who condemned Jesus for breaking the Sabbath did far worse things on the Sabbath. Hence, Jesus described them as hypocrites and white-washed tombs. The Pharisees perfected the act of pretence, but they forgot that nothing is hidden from the sight of God. Am I more concerned about what people would think about me than what God thinks about me? Do I openly condemn others for crimes I commit?

Let us look inward today, examine our conscience and repent. Writing to the Colossians in today’s first reading, St. Paul reminds them that having embraced Christ, they ought to live as new creatures. “You who were once hostile in mind, doing evil things have now been reconciled… to present you holy and blameless.”

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, grant that I may live a life that is truly pleasing to you. Save me from the danger of a single story. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saturday of week 22 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Colossians 1:21-23, Ps. 54:3-4,6,8, Luke 6:1-5).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu