22/11/2021

I don't know what to make of the reading from Daniel .It is certainly history that is being told to illustrate the power of God's actions in this world. That comes later. At the present point of the story it is as it were a propaganda piece for vegetarianism. It is needed to prepare the way for the main points which leave us in no doubt that God guides his favoured ones. The Hebrews have sunk yet again to their lowest point and have been taken in captivity to Babylon. It is in these situations of abasement that the Lord shows his mighty hand and saves us from the results of our sins. 

When we are lowest it is as if humility is forced upon us and if we accept our situation and turn to the Lord for the very littlest of comfort he can provide for us, then he wil listen. The world, however, is always the same as when Jesus was asked whether the tower fell and killed the 18 because they were more sinful than the other people in Jerusalem. Were the Jews more sinful than the rest of mankind or was more asked of them because more had been given?

The poor widow was destitute but was able to offer her all to the Temple, that treasure house of Wordly and Heavenly riches. The widow is well known throughout the world but we know nothing about her except this act. The Gospels are full of people about whom we know nothing but they and we are all known to God.

Dear Lord let me listen to your scripture with an open mind and heart and find your truth in the most unlikely places. We are so far from your time on Earth and hampered by possessions and knowledge help me to obey your rules for life and know that the widow is with you in the Glory of Heaven known to you as only a faithful soul can be.