ENCOUNTERING CHRIST IN THE POOR AND MARGINALIZED : A REFLECTION ON EZEKIEL 34:11-17 AND MATTHEW 25:31-46.
As Christians, we
encounter Jesus in many ways: reading the Bible, in the Sacraments, especially
the Holy Mass, Blessed Sacrament,
prayer experiences, and other spiritual experiences. Meeting
Jesus in the poor and marginalized is a particularly unique way, which goes
beyond religious affiliations, cultural and social identities. Reflecting on today’s
readings, we can find profound insights
into the nature of God's relationship with humanity, particularly with those
who are marginalized and vulnerable. These insights takes a particular
resonance on this feast of Christ the King.
In Ezekiel
34:11-17, the prophet uses vivid verbs to describe God’s intimate care and
concern for His people. The passage speaks of God as a shepherd, actively
seeking out His flock, caring for them, and ensuring their safety. This
demonstrates an active and seeking love that goes beyond mere oversight.
The imagery of God
as the shepherd is powerful; it shows how God is actively involved in
“rescuing” His people, “gathering” them from various places, “feeding” them on
rich pasture, and “tending” to the weak. The shepherd imagery prefigures Christ
as the Good Shepherd. His kingdom is not marked by dominion and power, but by
Love, self-sacrifice, for all especially the poor and marginalized.
This
portrayal aligns seamlessly with today’s Gospel (Matthew 25:31-46). It reveal
to us an aspect of the kingship of Christ. It makes us understand that there
will be a time of final judgment. Jesus identifies
Himself with the “least of these,” including the hungry, thirsty, stranger,
naked, sick, and imprisoned. This passage emphasizes the profound solidarity of
Christ with the poor and vulnerable. Jesus' identification with the
marginalized isn't just symbolic; it's a call to action for us all. The Gospel
of the day challenges us to see Christ in every person we meet, especially
those in need. It implies that our treatment of the marginalized is a direct
reflection of our relationship with God.
Connecting these
passages, we see a consistent theme of God's deep concern for the vulnerable
and marginalized. In Ezekiel, God is the shepherd who actively seeks and cares
for His flock, especially those lost or injured. In Matthew, Jesus teaches that
serving the needy is akin to serving Him. This parallelism offers a profound
lesson about our image of God and our relationships with others. It suggests
that our faith isn't just about personal salvation but also about embodying
God's love and compassion in the world. Our actions towards the vulnerable and
marginalized are a direct reflection of our understanding and acceptance of
God's love.
As St Paul wrote
“If we suffer with Christ, we shall reign with Him”, (Cfr. 2 Timothy 2:12).
When we remember that there will be a day when shall render account of our
lives on earth, this taught, far from frightening us, should help us be more
realistic in earthly dealings and try, no matter how difficult it could be
sometimes, to treat others with kindness and mercy. Christ reigns in us when we
become “another Christ” for others especially the less-privileged, those whom
he described in today’s Gospel.
These scriptures
challenge us to rethink our image of God. Rather than a distant deity, God is
portrayed as intimately involved in the human experience, especially in the
lives of those who suffer. They also call us to action, urging us to extend the
same compassion, care, and justice that God shows. In essence, today’s reading
teach us that our spirituality is deeply intertwined with our social
responsibilities, especially towards those who are less fortunate.
Happy Feast of Christ the King Padre.
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