The Salvation of Israel (20th Sunday in Ordinary Time)

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This Sunday’s reading continues St. Paul’s exposition of why it was necessary for the people of Israel to reject their Messiah. He previously established that this was so that the Gospel may come to the Gentiles. He reaffirms this in Romans 11:17-20, where he likens ethnic Israel to olive branches that were cut off so that the wild olive shoots (the Gentiles) may be grafted in:

“But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree, do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you. Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear.”

But this is not the end of the story, as Paul goes on to express hope that someday in the future, the natural branches may be grafted back into the tree, stating that God has the power to do this (vv. 23-24). He goes on to state that the hardening of Israel is only partial until the fulness of the Gentiles has come in, and that someday, “all Israel will be saved” (v. 26). Thus will God show, as our reading states, that God desires to show mercy to all, Jew and Gentile alike.

This is why the Church constantly prays, especially during Good Friday, that the Jews may come to know their Messiah. Already, many Jewish people have embraced the Christian faith. But many have still not, and we should continue to pray that they may all be saved, according to the hope that is expressed in Romans.

J. Luis Dizon