4th Sunday
30th January 2022
St. Joseph’s Church, Castlemartyr
“All called to be prophets”
My friends,
Opinion polls are a much-used instrument in society – by companies, political parties, lobbyists, campaigners and so many others too. There is always a question of how reliable they are so they usually allow for a margin of error of a few percentage points.
The basic aim of all polls is to check the direction of people’s thoughts and feelings on things. The results are relied upon to help leaders to focus their effort along the line the people desire and wish. It is a version of “going with the flow” – popularity usually rests on giving people what they want, wish and desire. That raises a question about the kind of leaders we get in society.
We know that good leadership is not just about being popular – it also involves being truthful, honest and courageous. The reading to-day raise exactly that question when we hear Jesus suggest that the prophet is not accepted among his own people. In saying so he is suggesting that when people do not like the message they go after the messenger. To be a prophet is not so much being a voice about the future as being a voice for the present. The prophet’s first commitment is to the truth, to principles and to integrity. The prophet does not play games with critical issues for society – he or she will seek to sweep away falsehood and pretence in public affairs and in their personal lives.
It is disturbing in many ways to see the level of influence that opinion polls play in contemporary society because so many of its results are exploited for political and commercial purposes. When the tide of opinion is harnessed in a manipulative manner the people are not being well served because narratives and values are being exploited for ulterior motives.
We always need to make a distinction between individual opinion and the wider reality and truth of a situation. Though we live in a democracy it does not follow that the opinion of a majority is right and just. That is why we need prophetic voices at every level in society – in politics, education, technological innovation – people who have principle and commitment to what is right and best for people and society.
Jeremiah was filled with consternation at the thought of being called to be a prophet. It took the Lord’s reassurance of his protection that enabled him to say yes. Equally, the words of the Father reassured Jesus that he was called and chosen – he is the “Beloved Son in whom I am well pleased”.
Social media speaks of people who are “Influencers” and have so many followers as being the ones to be attentive to. Our experience of polls and social tracking should fill us with a healthy suspicion of any trend or person who demands our undivided attention.
Almost always you can be sure it is more for their benefit rather than yours.
