No right to be closed

Both of today’s readings touch on the relationship of the Jewish people to Christ the Savior, albeit in different ways.

In the first reading (Romans 9:1-5), Saint Paul extols the gifts of God given to the Jewish people. On the other hand, in the Gospel (Luke 14:1-6), a particular group of Jewish people refuses to engage in dialogue with the Lord Jesus.

We must respect the Jewish people and the gifts of God given to them, even as we must remain faithful to carrying on Christ’s mission of speaking the truth and doing what is good.

Today’s readings also should remind us that we too have been given gifts by God and that we too must be careful about closing our minds and hearts to greater knowledge of and greater unity with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.