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Vatican City, Vatican, 01st
September, 2004 (CNA) -
Focusing on the second
part of Psalm 113 in today's general audience, in the
Paul VI Hall in the Vatican, the Pope spoke about the
temptation to idolatry and it’s contrast with worship of
the true God.
John Paul II said that
"after an initial word addressed to the Lord to bear
witness to His glory, the chosen people describe their
God as the omnipotent creator. ... 'The idols of the
people' are in immediate contrast to the true God,
adored by Israel.”
“Idolatry is a temptation
for all of humanity in all ages. An idol is
something inanimate, the work of men's hands, a lifeless
cold statue," he said.
"After this blunt criticism
of idols," continued the Pope, "the psalmist expresses a
sarcastic wish: 'May those who make idols and put faith
in them be like them.' ... Those who adore the idols of
wealth, power and success lose their dignity as a human
person."
The Holy Father said that
"those who are faithful to the Lord know that the living
God is their 'help' and their 'shield.'”
“They are presented in
three categories,” he continued, “First, there is the
'house of Israel,' the entire people, the community
which gathers in the temple to pray. Then there is the
'house of Aaron' represented by priests, guardians and
announcers of the divine word, called to preside at
worship.”
“Finally, there are those
who fear the Lord, those who are genuine and constant.
... The divine blessing descends upon those three
classes of true believers. According to biblical
understanding, it is a source of fertility," said the
Pope.
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