who is really on trial?
"God Himself is the Judge." —Psalm 50:6
In all three eucharistic readings today, a type of courtroom scene is portrayed. The prophet Micah announces a cosmic court session. "The Lord has a plea against His people, and He enters into trial with" them (Mi 6:2). He demands to know why His people have turned away from Him, despite all the marvelous deeds and loving provisions He has bestowed on them. God says to His people: "Answer Me!" (Mi 6:3) The psalm response continues the cosmic trial scene. God "summons the heavens from above, and the earth, to the trial of His people" (Ps 50:4).
In the Gospel reading, the "scribes and Pharisees," who would have known Micah 6 and Psalm 50, decide to switch seats with Jesus, attempting to become judge instead of defendant. They heard His preaching, saw His miracles, and were still not satisfied. As self-appointed judges, they want a sign all their own. In effect, the scribes and Pharisees say to Jesus: "Answer Me!" (see Mi 6:3) Jesus doesn't grant their answer in the way they wish, and so they eventually pronounce Him guilty.
The queen of Sheba shows the best way to get an answer from the Lord. She was a queen, but instead of standing on her authority, she sought the truth with openness. She spent a long time with Solomon to gain some of his wisdom. The truth is found by those who seek it. Jesus, the Truth (Jn 14:6), and the Spirit of Truth (Jn 16:13) are likewise found by those who seek with openness and honesty. Therefore, "seek the Lord while He may be found" (Is 55:6).
Prayer: Father, I will seek You "ten times the more" (Bar 4:28).
Promise: "To him that goes the right way I will show the salvation of God." —Ps 50:23
Praise: St. Camillus devoted himself to the sick because of his own diseased leg.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 20, 2016
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