Daily Catholic Lectio. Wed, 25 Sep ’24. Embracing the balance

Daily Catholic Lectio

Wed, 25 Sep ‘24

XXV Week in Ordinary Time, Wednesday

Proverbs 30:5-9. Luke 9:1-6

Embracing the balance

The Scriptures often call us to embrace balance in life, particularly in our relationship with God, others, and the world around us. Today’s readings challenge us to find that balance between dependence on God and responsible living, between simplicity and mission. 

1. Balancing needs and desires: living with contentment

In the first reading  (Proverbs 30:8-9), the author prays, “Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.” This prayer expresses a desire for balance – avoiding the extremes of wealth and poverty, which can either lead to pride or despair. The key message here is contentment. Rather than constantly striving for more, we are called to trust in God’s provision for our needs, knowing that He will provide what is truly necessary.

For us today, embracing this balance means being grateful for what we have and resisting the temptation to be consumed by material pursuits. It calls us to live simply and with a heart open to God’s will, rather than letting our desires control us.

2. Balancing mission and simplicity: trusting in God’s providence

In the gospel reading (Luke 9:1-6), Jesus sends out the apostles with minimal provisions – no staff, no bread, no money. He instructs them to rely on God’s providence and the hospitality of others. This radical simplicity highlights the need for balance in mission: the apostles are equipped with authority and power from Christ, but they are to travel lightly, trusting in God rather than relying on their own resources.

This is a powerful lesson for us. In our daily mission as Christians – whether in our families, workplaces, or communities – we are invited to trust in God’s providence. We are not called to accumulate excess or rely solely on our own strength, but to live with the simplicity of heart that allows us to focus on our mission without distractions.

3. Balancing piety and virtuous living: walking the path of faith

The author of Proverbs also prays, “Put falsehood and lying far from me.” He strives to live a virtuous life. His piety can never replace his virtuous living. In the gospel reading Jesus, when he sends the disciples on mission, does not deprive them of anything; rather, he makes them realise the new power that they are in possession of. 

For us, this means balancing our own efforts – whether in work, ministry, or family life – with a deep trust in God. We are called to do our part, but not to the point of believing that everything depends on us. When we learn to trust in God’s presence and guidance, we experience peace and balance in our journey of faith. ‘Virtue stands in the middle’ (in medio stat virtus), says Aristotle. A person who strikes the middle and keeps his balance will not be enamoured of riches, nor will be downcast by poverty.

#

The ‘pilgrims of hope’ trust in God’s provision, live with contentment, and rely on God’s grace as they carry out our mission in the world. (Jubilee 2025 AD, bite 208)

Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi

Archdiocese of Madurai

Missionary of Mercy