"Do not make any idols" (Exodus 34:17 niv)

These succinct words leave no room for misinterpretation. They do not equivocate. God’s people have heard this admonition countless times. Yet, those chosen by the Lord, and bathed in His radiant presence turn away and worship false gods, golden calves and other abominations. Those who worship idols have been struck down and destroyed, their civilizations scattered and lost to history.

Those were simpler ages, and the ancients faced far fewer distractions. Constant bombardment by the media can sway opinion, and cause us to adore hollow celebrities, and deeply flawed world leaders. Few people now living would kneel before a golden calf, but many would covet and venerate the gold of which it was constructed. The television flashes images of "celebrities” diving, being arrested, dancing, and engaging in conspicuous consumption. Other shows purport to find “soul mates" for lonely individuals. For entertainment, these "idols" are uplifted and then shown to be all too human, and figuratively torn down.

False idols seep into our awareness, perniciously. Choices abound, and the boundaries between goodness and sinfulness blur into various grays.

God our Savior,
bring us back to you
and fill our minds with your wisdom.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. AMEN

Contributed by Carol
Monday March 25, 2013
Liturgical Year C: Week 17
Liturgical Color: White/Gold
Sunday Gospel reading:
Palm Sunday