We will be hearing from different prophets in these next coming weeks in our first readings at daily Mass. Last week we heard from Amos, a shepherd from the southern kingdom of Judah whom God called to be a prophet of social justice to the Northern kingdom of Israel. This week we hear from the prophet Hosea, who lived and prophesied before the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in the 8th century before Christ’s birth. Today from Hosea, we hear how he was very unhappy about the kings and princes who had been chosen by the people as their leaders. Many of those kings and princes made false idols for worship that led the people further away from the one true God. Right now we have important mid-term elections coming up in November in a very divided country. We have already had the primary elections here in Mississippi. In a very divided country right now, it is so very important for us to choose our elected leaders wisely. In the US and in other countries, we have seen elected officials walk away and not seek re-election, as they become disillusioned with the way government functions with so much divisiveness and vitriol. We need prayer and discernment and a well informed conscience in order to make wise decisions in how to vote. We contrast the leaders that Hosea calls out to the leadership Jesus embodies in today’s Gospel. Our leaders are called to be shepherds to the people, to be servant leaders and to not just look out for self interest. They are called to have compassion for the burdens and troubles of the people. Our leaders are called to teach and preach the Gospel message of Christ’s Good News, to bring healing and wholeness into the lives of the people. Jesus’ servant leadership is a great example for us. May we take our responsibility to vote seriously. May we vote with the values of our faith.
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