Dwell No Longer In the Error

Dwell No Longer In the Error

May 27, 2013

Memorial Day

Monday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time

To the penitent God provides a way back, he encourages those who are losing hope and has chosen for them the lot of truth.  Return to him and give up sin, pray to the LORD and make your offenses few.  Turn again to the Most High and away from your sin, hate intensely what he loathes, and know the justice and judgments of God, Stand firm in the way set before you, in prayer to the Most High God.  Sirach 17:24-26

Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him, “You are lacking in one thing.  Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.”  At that statement, his face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.  Mark 10:21-22

Piety

How great the mercy of the LORD, his forgiveness of those who return to him!

Study

Change is once again the focus of our readings.  It’s nice to know that the Scriptures and the Lord do not give up on us and our immense gift to change the direction in which we look for happiness. The rich young man has many possessions that tie him down to the world.  Jesus says that he must untie himself and his life from these possessions – IN ADDITION – to adhering to the Gospel and the Commandments.

Action

We would certainly like to take the easier path – a path that allows us to follow Jesus and not make changes in our daily routine.  Sirach reminds us that God provides a path to those who are penitent – those who are willing to admit change into their life.

What possessions tie you to this world?  Before we get in to the busy part of summer, take some time to go through your possessions and decide what you can take to the local Thrift Shop, Goodwill or the Salvation Army.  You’ll never miss things you have not touched in more than a year.

In addition, today might also be a great day to consider supporting some causes that aid our veterans.  A column by former Senator Bob Dole in today’s The Washington Post “Veterans Charities Need Scrutiny,” points out some of those groups which he has found worthy of support.  He writes, “I can’t imagine a better way to observe Memorial Day than to support those who have worn their country’s uniform — while denying others who would enrich themselves in the service of greed.”

However, Senator Dole also warns about disreputable charities that try to raise money for veterans but pass little on to the mission that they claim.  His advice about veterans charities could apply to any group you would like to support.

If you want to help servicemen and women in their transition to civilian life, exercise the same due diligence you’d apply to any significant purchase or investment. Don’t hesitate to kick the tires or demand the equivalent of a test drive. If you’re contacted by fundraisers, be prepared to ask some questions in return. Confirm the organization’s tax-exempt status. Find out how much of your gift will go to the intended recipient and how much to administration or fundraising. Better yet, ask the group to put its appeal in writing and then review its financial stats and spending record on Web sites such as Charity Navigator. As Ronald Reagan said in a different context: Trust but verify. Check them out before you write a check.