14TH SUNDAY, ORDINARY TIME

 


FOURTEENTH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME


When the subject of the Lord’s dominion is mentioned, we hear that it will extend from sea to sea (Zech. 9:10). But what about that interior dimension? You will notice that Paul has placed his focus upon the interior life (see Rom. 8:9). The dominion featured in Zechariah needs to find its way within, penetrating into the recesses of your heart. Only then will the picture become a complete picture. 


Still, you hesitate. What will it mean for you, if you comply with Paul’s instruction? Do you really want to give a green light to the Lord? What kind of an entry will he make? How will he go about it? Will he enter as the Kool-Aid Man enters? Perhaps you will recall those commercials. The Kool-Aid Man overhears some comment about thirst. Suddenly there he is, crashing through the doorway. Or he’s barreling through a wall. The problem of thirst is being dealt with. But you are left wondering what’s going to be done about that doorway? Or that wall? Now we’re faced with a mess—and considerable damage. 


It occurs to you: when the Lord enters, will you have to worry about a mess? Will you have to worry about collateral damage? Actually, it can be said that we already know something about the Lord’s approach. The prophet describes a peaceful entrance. The Lord rides in, not on a galloping stallion, but on the back of a mule (9:9). Furthermore, we should note the language presented in the Gospel of Matthew. This is the Lord being characterized as meek and humble of heart (11:29). 


He knows that you are likely to be weary. He understands that you struggle under various burdens. Having labored through his own set of burdens, he has no desire to add anything to your load. He’s not out to complicate your life. Rather, he wants that interior dimension to be a dimension of peace. Psalm twenty three portrays him as our Shepherd, leading us so that we can rest beside the still waters, and upon pastures that are rich and green (23:2). We now find this sentiment being echoed in Matthew eleven, with Jesus offering his own special brand of refreshment (11:28). 

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