Faithfulness

Homily for Friday of the 2nd Week in Lent

We have all heard that our God is a faithful God. Sometimes, we may begin to doubt God’s faithfulness when things don’t go our way.

Genesis 37 shows the fracture that comes when unfaithfulness—jealousy, betrayal, resentment—takes root. Joseph’s brothers abandon him. One would hardly blame Joseph if he thought that God had failed to protect him. As his story unfolds, it becomes evident that what was thought to be unfaithfulness on God’s part was simply a means of advancing Joseph’s deeper purpose. God proves to be a faithful God in the face of what seemed like abandonment.

Psalm 105 reframes Joseph’s suffering as part of God’s faithful guidance: “He sent a man before them… Joseph.” God’s purpose in the life of Joseph was to prepare him for greater things to come. He ultimately saves his family and many others from starvation.

Matthew 21 contrasts the unfaithful tenants with God’s unwavering fidelity to the covenant. The vineyard is entrusted to those who will bear fruit—those who remain faithful. God takes back his vineyard and gives it to others

Across all three readings, we experience the tension between human unfaithfulness and divine faithfulness. Returning to the word “Faithfulness” throughout our day who remind us of how God has proved to be faithful in our lives. That single word can help us stay aligned with the steady, non-reactive center these texts point toward.

Once again, I want to recommend a mantra that will help us keep God’s purpose in mind:

Breathe in and say, “Stay faithful.”
Breathe out and say, “In this moment.”