Friday of the 2nd Week of Lent
Genesis 37:3-4,12-13,17-28 | Psalm 104(105):16-21 | Matthew 21:33-43,45-46
Today, we hear the story of Joseph’s journey into slavery at the hands of his jealous brothers. At some point in the future, we may hear about his kindness to them in the time of famine, despite their prior ill-treatment.
Today also happens to St. Patrick’s Day, wherein all Ireland honours the missionary who returned to the land of his enslavement, just to preach the Good News of salvation to his former captors.
Which gives us pause for thought: When we have broken free of our captivity of sin, would we turn back to help others escape too?
Would we extend a helping hand, or a sympathetic ear, or do a kindness, to those mired in the same depths of depravity from which we came, some of whom might even have dragged us down with them in the first place?
Or would we just walk away, basking in our new-found freedom, leaving all others to fend for themselves against the rising tide of spiritual darkness?
Is salvation for us alone, who have been blessed with the Good News, or is it for all to receive, through our thoughts, words and deeds?
Are we like Joseph, generous to a fault, or like his brothers, jealous enough to sell him into slavery?
Lord, help us to be more like You, sharing Your love with all we meet, caring enough to overlook the slights and injuries visited upon us, for the good of even those who hate us. Amen.