Our readings today are replete with the theme of envy, jealousy, and anger. None of

us likes to be the victims of these sins, but at times we can lay them heavily on others.

In order for the Jewish race to be prolific, a man could father a child by a servant.

Such is the case in today’s first reading. Although Sarah consented to this act, she

becomes envious of Hagar who bears a son. When Sarah gives birth to Isaac and

notices that he and Ishmael become playmates, her jealousy demands that both Hagar

and Ishmael are sent away. Sarah allows envy, jealousy, and fear to overtake her! She

is rattled, fearful at the prospect that her son is equal to the son of her servant.

Abraham is upset over the conflict between the two women. Because of his own

relationship with God, he prays for a solution. God saves the lives of both Hagar and

Ishmael showing that Divine love is universal.

In our gospel today, Jesus finds himself in a similar prediction as Abraham. This

time the choice is between demoniacs and swine! Jesus cures the men by casting out

their demons into the pigs who jump into the sea. Then we have the jealousy of the

swineherds, who cherish their animals more than the lives of the men. Jealousy, envy,

fear can cause such destruction!

Both Abraham and Jesus are focused on the good of the people. Abraham does not

want Hagar sent away to wander in the wilderness; Jesus does not want the men under

the influence of Satan. The biblical scholar, Passionist Carroll Stuhlmueller,

understands what is happening in both situations. “The Bible, however, is not intent on

answering every problem, for it is too concerned to get as quickly as possible to the

heart of the matter, God’s compassion for the underprivileged.”

The Scripture readings today prompt us to question our own compassion for the

underprivileged, as well as our tendencies to envy, jealousy, and anger. In lieu of

offering an examination of our tendencies to these sins, I suggest that we sit with our

God who knows us through and through, in and out. In our conversation let us ask God

to show us how we can convert our envy and jealousy into generosity with others; how

our fear of others because they are different can warn us of danger within and outside

of ourselves. Abraham listens to what God is speaking in his heart. Jesus does all that

the Father tells him. I could end this reflection with an examination of conscience.

Instead, let us spend more fruitful time in listening and in conversation with this God

who loves us unconditionally.