We all know what a dilemma is. It is a perplexing situation in which a choice has to be made between two or more desirable or undesirable alternatives. Going by that definition, it may be said that it is a choice of the best among the better or worse. Facing dilemmas is like going to a restaurant with an enormous menu. You spend ages deciding between two dishes, only to blurt out “I’ll have the usual” when the waiter or waitress takes your orders!
In Matthew's Gospel, the chief priests and the elders find themselves in that exact type of situation. They challenge Jesus’ authority but, in turn, find themselves challenged and in a dilemma about how to answer that question of Jesus. So, they end up choosing the worst of the worst alternatives with that reply: We do not know. Or, in simple terms, no comment.
In the Book of Numbers, we hear of another dilemma. The pagan prophet Balaam was tasked with cursing Israel, but when the Spirit of God came upon him, he faced a dilemma. He chose to revoke his curse and instead bless Israel.
Handling the Trials
Dilemmas are not foreign to us either. I remember the teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a principal, I was the epicenter of a dilemma. Faced with the sudden shift to online learning, teachers and I had to decide: Should we stick with traditional methods and risk leaving students behind or adapt to unfamiliar technology, requiring significant effort and creativity?
Many teachers chose the harder but better option—to adapt. They learned new tools and programs and turned their kitchens into classrooms, while others recorded lessons late at night. Many worked tirelessly to ensure that no child was left behind. Their dilemmas were real, but their commitment to growth and service transformed those challenges into opportunities. I am proud to say we were one of the first schools in the state to come up with a creative solution to address learning during the pandemic.
Whenever we face a dilemma, we think of the worst-case scenarios and try to choose the one that will result in the fewest problems and difficulties. However, when we put the dilemma into the hands of God and ask the Spirit to guide us, we will see the best-case scenarios because we know that in each alternative, there is growth and enlightenment.
Ceasing Opportunities
The teachers’ example also reminds us that dilemmas are not merely problems but opportunities for growth. By seeking guidance, trusting in God, and acting with courage and creativity, they turned uncertainty into moments of triumph.
So, whenever we face a dilemma, let us not curse the alternatives we must choose from. Rather, let us ask the Lord for His blessings and also ask the Spirit to guide us in making a choice. Every dilemma is an opportunity to experience God's blessing. Like those teachers, we, too, can transform dilemmas into opportunities for growth, enlightenment, and service with God’s grace.
- Father Boby's inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center this morning. You can view the Mass (and the Rosary at the 30-minute mark) on the Family Rosary YouTube page.
- To join the Rosary and Mass Livestream, visit the Family Rosary YouTube or Facebook page at 11:30 a.m. Eastern, Monday – Friday. Consider inviting others to join too! (*If you are not a member of Facebook and a signup window appears, simply select the X at the top of the pop-up message and continue to the livestream.)
