Roc Homily for the Eleventh Sunday Ordinary Time 2016

Yes, it is still the Year of Mercy.  And, today’s gospel contrasts two different ways of dealing with Mercy.  The first is Simon the Pharisee, who acts as an observer-critic, as one completely detached from Jesus. The other is Susanna (I gave her a name; every one needs a name) who trusted Jesus would receive her as she is.  Thus, her tears are tears, not of remorse, but of gratitude!

Simon, like all the Pharisees in Luke’s gospel (not necessarily in the first century!), serves as a foil, a mirror for the disciples then and now to look into, shows us what we don’t want to see.  Recall the parable of the Pharisee and the Publican.  The Pharisee thanked God he was above others, so much so he could judge them.  His good deeds entitled him so.  These Pharisees were also characterized as those who washed the outside of the cup, thus neglecting the inside.  However, Susanna looked inward.  And her faith/trust led her to believe Jesus would welcome her totally.  And she was right.

How easy is it for you to put your faith into action & go to confession?