We are used to the connection between the first of our readings and the gospel reading, while second often follows its own independent path. But today the more obvious connection is between the first and second readings. Both talk of the relationship of God with his people (Ex 19:2-6a). At the beginning the Israelites, through the vision and prophecy of Moses, came to understand that they were special, “dearer to me than all other people”, “a kingdom of priests, a holy nation”. By the time of Paul, the extent and depth of that special relationship was even more fully understood: while we were still helpless, while we were still sinners, while we were enemies (!), Christ died for us and we were reconciled to God (Romans 5:6-11).
At the time of Moses the understanding of the people was like that of a child. The fact they were special was based on a quid pro quo: if you hearken to my voice and keep my covenant, then you shall be my special possession. If you eat your greens you can have desert, if you do your homework you can watch TV. And as adults we still fall into this pattern – if you work hard, go to college, eat well… you will be successful, have a long and happy life, etc, etc…
But Paul goes beyond this childish perspective. We can’t do anything to deserve God’s love, we don’t do anything to earn our salvation. It is a totally free gift. It is offered to everyone without preconditions.
Instead of a childish relationship we now have an adult relationship. We’ve done nothing capable of deserving this relationship, but it does now place a responsibility on us. If we have received without cost then we must give without cost. That’s what Jesus explained to his disciples. And the Church as an apostolic church inherits that responsibility. We as members of that church share in the responsibility.
We don’t deserve God’s love, but having received it we should behave accordingly. Not because we have to, because God will stop loving us if we don’t, but because it is the natural and right thing to do, in whatever way we can. “Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.”