Jesus uses a beautiful imagery in today’s gospel, that of a hen gathers her brood under her wings. Jesus takes this image from Psalm 91:4; “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge.” This Psalm tells us that the Lord is the source of refuge and protection. Jesus picks up this image of the bird and he expresses His desire to gather the children of Jerusalem together under his protective wings. This image of the hen gathering her brood under her wing presupposes a willingness on the part of her brood to be gathered. But He does not find a corresponding response from the part of the people. He could call and invite and plead, but he could not coerce. We are free to accept or reject God’s offer of salvation. God respects human freedom. He does not force us to follow Him, yet He invites us and longs that we respond positively to this offer of grace. “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.” (Isaiah 55:1). God is ready to provide for us. Are we ready to be under His wings? It is not an easy task. We may have to make sacrifices, say no to our desires or be a prophetic voice when injustice is on the march. But our willingness to respond will be rewarded in His kingdom. “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.” (Revelation 3:20).
✍️ CB