Our Practical Dependence on God
Dear Parishioners,
Today’s Scripture readings invite us to reflect on two important biblical concepts: the Remnant of Israel and the Anawim, often referred to as the poor of God. The prophet Zephaniah speaks of this sacred remnant of God’s people and their complete dependence on Him. The term anawim originally referred to the survivors after a disaster or military defeat (cf. 2 Kgs 19:30; 25:11; Zeph 3:12).
There was a deep-seated belief in ancient Israel that God would never abandon His people. God would always seek out the remnant—those at the lowest socio-economic level of society, the poorest of the poor, and those with the greatest need for His benevolence. Through them, God promised to preserve the people and restore the land. Zephaniah was called to confront the arrogant, prideful spirit and moral laxity that led many away from God. In contrast, he upheld the moral qualities of the anawim: honesty, uprightness, and a way of life free from greed, deceit, and intolerance.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus redefines what it means to be poor and what true dependence on God entails. He introduces a new reality and a new order through the Beatitudes, expanding our understanding of who the poor of God truly are. Jesus offers a spiritual reinterpretation of the socio-economic struggles of the people, shifting our attention toward higher and nobler aspirations.
The poor in spirit embody humility and simplicity that free a person to love God without worldly attachments. Those who mourn grieve over the presence of evil, while the meek endure suffering with patience. The merciful forgive and enter into renewed relationships rooted in love of neighbor. Purity of heart brings transparency, sincerity, and fidelity, while peacemakers restore harmony among individuals and communities.
It suffices to say that the Beatitudes are a spiritual blueprint—a roadmap—to attain heaven. The Kingdom announced by Jesus at the beginning of His public ministry is already among us, and with this roadmap, the journey has begun. The Beatitudes correct what is wrong within and around us and show us the way forward. Salvation is right before us. God’s precepts are never outdated. The message of the prophet Zephaniah remains relevant today and is renewed for us in the Sermon on the Mount.
We may wonder and ask ourselves: can we truly live the Beatitudes? I firmly believe that what matters most is learning to step aside so that God can accomplish His work in us. Like the anawim, we are called to surrender ourselves to God. We must be able to say, “Lord, here I am; use me as You see fit.”
Sincerely yours in the Lord
Fr. Vitalis Anyanike
Pastor
