Andrew Tatlow
“Dark times lie ahead of us and there will be a time when we must face the choice between what is right and what is easy.” -Professor Albus Dumbledore
It is a statement that is made to Harry Potter just after the sudden and traumatic death of Cedric Diggory during the Tri-Wizard tournament – the central event in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Diggory dies at the hands of Lord Voldemort, the evil wizard who operated in the Dark Arts, rallied a band of “death eaters,” killed Harry’s parents (along with several others,) and who exists in a quasi life-like state until all seven components of his soul are reunited.
Given the gravity of the storyline, the choice appears to be a simple one. Of course Harry will do what is right. He is the titular character, the protagonist and he is the one we as the readers are counting on, but it’s rarely that cut and dry. After all, he just saw his friend die in a horrible fashion. He knows things will get worse before they get better. He knows his own life will be on the line. He knows that ultimate victory will not be guaranteed, nor will it come without sacrifice. Surely he wondered if those sacrifices would be worth it. Would the end justify the means?
Dumbledore seems to think so and in today’s gospel, Jesus compels His disciples to make a similar choice when it comes to standing by Him when the going gets rough. He knows it won’t be easy after He is gone for them to take up their mantle and continue the work and surely a few will reconsider their commitment to the cause. But there are risks in taking the quick and easy path. Like the wise old headmaster of Hogwarts, Jesus understands that his followers may be self-conscious about their ability to do the right thing when the moment arises, but He assures them that they have all they need to get through the dark times and usher in the light.
Making the choice between what is right and what is easy is a never-ending battle in our lives. Taking the easy way out may seem simple, but it is often fraught with unforeseen challenges that deplete precious resources and leave us with no additional support. Doing the right thing may seem like a futile effort at times, but that’s when we have to have faith that we do not fight alone.
After all, as Dumbledore says, “It is our choices, Harry that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.”
Today’s readings for Mass: EPH 1:15-23; PS 8: 2-3AB, 4-5, 6-7; LK 12:8-12
