by: Deacon Paul Rooney (deaconpaul@cox.net)
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
(Cycle “C" - November 14, 2004)

Q. 293: St. Paul says just after today’s reading (2 Thess 3:7-12) that we are to “warn” and “ostracize” those who are disorderly (v. 7,11), not as an enemy but as a brother. What was it that he considered to be “disorderly”?

A. 293: Bible scholars can only suggest possibilities, based on the limited clues that Paul gives in this situation. The basic concern seems to be that the “disorderly” are interfering with the daily “stability” of others in the believing community.

Since “stability” comes only through a lived faith - - characterized by mutual sharing of God-given gifts and the self-giving that flows willingly from true Discipleship - - it seems clear that some people are disturbing the lived faith of others. Paul does indicate that there is an element that is so concerned about the imminent Second Coming of Christ that they have disregarded their responsibility to contribute to their own support, and may even be spreading false rumors and false prophecies about the parousia. So they are distracting the rest of the community with their gossip and idleness, neglecting their need to be self-giving.

When the Lord comes, he will want to find us actively using the gifts he gave to us to build up the community, living out our faith in self-sacrifice, rather than cowering in a prayer corner fearful of what the future might bring. “Being” church – the people of God – consists of “communion” (gathering, listening, sharing) and “mission” (living our faith, proclaiming the good news, and inviting others into this same communion).

Know Your Catechism! God does not invite us to idleness, but wants us to trust in his providence (CCC #2830). Hand in hand with that blessing goes the responsibility to recognize the needs of our brothers and sisters in the human family, and contribute to their well being (CCC #2831). The “last judgment” will give an accounting of our response (CCC #1038).

Deacon Paul Rooney
Mary Our Queen Parish, Omaha