CALLED, GATHERED, DISCIPLINED, AND SENT
Catholic Homily/Sunday Reflection 21 st Sunday in Ordinary Time(C) August 22, 2010 The readings today are very much apropos the recently concluded World Cup that captured the world’s interest for a whole month. Isaiah’s vision speaks of a great ingathering of people “from all nations” “of every language” who “shall come and see [God’s] glory.” The passage from the letter to the Hebrews speaks of “discipline” “brings the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who are trained by it.” Discipline, in other words, appears to come more easy and more acceptable for one who gets training. (The word for “training” has to do with the root-word for gymnastics). The Gospel, for its part, further affirms the overriding images of the first two readings, by alluding to the need for Christ’s followers “to strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many […] will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.” (the original meaning has to do more with “instruction”), and acknowl...