20th Week in Ord. Time, Wednesday – 23rd August 2023 – Judges 9,6-15; Mt 20,1-16
Being Suitable and Responsible
The first reading describes how some of the Israelites sought to have a king like their neighbouring tribes and nations. But it is obvious from Jotham’s parable that this is not what God wants. Jotham, the judge, climbs upon Mount Gerizim and tells the parable of the trees looking for another tree to be the king of the trees. Those trees that are doing what they should continue to produce what they are called to do. They are grateful that they can bring joy and happiness to others by doing what God intends them to do – producing fruit. They do not seek to wave over the other trees. So here, olive, fig, and vine trees of value for man, which produce fruits of great importance, refuse kingship. The story reflects Israel’s distaste for monarchy at this time. It implies that the most valuable and productive people are not interested in being kings. They represent Gideon, who refused to be king or found a dynasty. The thorny bush, fruitless and noxious, agrees to rule over the trees and inflicts harsh times upon the other trees. This represents Abimelech, a person entirely unsuited for the role. Through this fable Jotham is forecasting hard times for the people for choosing to have a king which is not according to God’s plan. Sometimes those who are capable can avoid taking on responsibilities because they are reluctant to give up something they like doing. As a result, the leadership task may be done by someone incapable or unsuitable. On the other hand, there may be someone ambitious for some role not suited. Discernment is often needed to discover whether God wants or we are making good use of our talents.
