TODAY'S READINGSThe stories in both readings are so directed to our times especially considering the impact of cultural mores that challenge us each day: a culture that challenges faithfulness; a culture that challenges willingness to let go of our hold on all we have, especially ourselves.
Surely the widow would be ridiculed as careless with her frightfully meagre finances or as a holy roller. She showed us her complete faith and trust in God. She did not hedge her holdings.
Daniel is like the contemporary believers in our culture. Challenged to forgo the rigors of the Jewish "commandments" regarding the types of foods to be avoided, Daniel and friends used the logic of their minds: substitute foods that are permitted and at the same time gain a position with the king! In Daniel we see adherence to his faith while responding to the demands of his king.
There are numerous challenges to the practices of faith that call believers to follow. Listening to many conversations during my 35 years of priesthood, it is clear that many Catholics lack the commitment of a Daniel or the total trust of the widow. For example: "... didn't make Mass the past weekend ... the kids had a soccer game." Wow! That must have been quite the game ... since Masses for the Sunday obligation usually begin Saturday evenings around 4 PM and continue through Sunday evening ... in every city! Or another example that is more sensitive: birth control. "What do priests, bishops, cardinals, even popes know about married life?" Wow! Is it surprising that Muslims, African and Hispanic folks are proportionately growing in such large numbers? Many of these folks do not accept birth control as their right. Soon the Caucasians will be the minorities around the world ... maybe in our own lifetime. Your great-grandchildren will not have to worry about immigration! They will definitely be the minorities seeking a better lifestyle. Surprised??? Shouldn't be if you really think about the realities of birth rates and deaths!
