July 14, 2010
Memorial of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha, virgin
Will the axe boast against him who hews with it? Will the saw exalt itself above him who wields it? As if a rod could sway him who lifts it, or a staff him who is not wood! Therefore the Lord, the LORD of hosts, will send among his fat ones leanness, And instead of his glory there will be kindling like the kindling of fire. Isaiah 10:15-16
At that time Jesus said in reply, "I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him. Matthew 11:25-27
Piety
Novena To Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha
http://www.catholicdoors.com/prayers/novenas/p00045.htm
Kateri, favored child and Lily of the Mohawks, I come to seek your intercession in my present need.
I admire the virtues which adorned your soul: love of God and neighbor, humility, obedience, patience, purity and the spirit of sacrifice. Help me to imitate your example in my state of life. Through the goodness and mercy of God, Who has blessed you with so many graces which led you to the true faith and to a high degree of holiness, pray to God for me and help me.
Obtain for me a very fervent devotion to the Holy Eucharist so that I may love Holy Mass as you did and receive Holy Communion as often as I can. Teach me also to be devoted to my crucified Savior as you were, that I may cheerfully bear my daily crosses for love of Him Who suffered so much for love of me. Most of all I beg you to pray for me that I may avoid sin, lead a holy life and save my soul. Kateri, Lily of the Mohawks, pray for me. Amen.
Study
Many are counted among those who reject Jesus and the significance of his humble deeds. The wise and the learned, the scribes and Pharisees. However, while those with political and positional power reject Jesus, the powerless have accepted him. The powerless includes the anawim – the widows, orphans and others whom Jesus focuses upon in his social gospel.
Acceptance is derived only partly by the external lack of power. It also is determined by the internal personal disposition. One must be open to receive the teachings of Jesus. The notes from the New American Bible also explain that “Jesus can speak of all mysteries because he is the Son and there is perfect reciprocity of knowledge between him and the Father; what has been handed over to him is revealed only to those whom he wishes.”
These two conditions are not always mutually exclusive. There can be those among the powerful who are open to Jesus’ teaching. Case in point is Nicodemus. Although he initially steals away under cover of darkness to learn from Jesus, in the end, he is counted among the few who travel in broad daylight to the foot of the cross following the execution of the Lord.
There also can be those who are powerless and who are not open to the teachings. The case here might be considered the “bad thief.” He finds himself hanging from a cross just like Jesus but does not accept Jesus like the other criminal does.
Action
Are you open to receive the teaching of Jesus?
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
Repent and Turn to the Lord
July 13, 2010
Tuesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time
By Beth DeCristofaro
Jesus began to reproach the towns … "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented in sackcloth and ashes. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. (Matthew 11: 20-22)
Piety
God of repentance, you call all people to listen attentively to the good news of Jesus and to be converted from their old lives of sin to the new life he offers. Open our hearts to hear his preaching. Through our witness of his mighty deeds move us to authentic repentance of mind and heart. May we not be judged harshly but experience the depths of your mercy and love. We ask this through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen
(From Day by Ordinary Day with Matthew, Fr. Mark G. Boyer, p. 123)
Study
My grandfather died when I was 16. He was a big man, large in size and personality and we kids adored him. He was a retired Army Colonel who spent three years rebuilding destroyed railroads in Europe as the Allies advanced to end World War II. He was tough, blunt and I heard words out of his mouth that I didn’t understand and that no one would explain. One of the phrases that still resounds in my memory was when he bellowed (he never spoke quietly except in church) “Come here! Who dropped these toys behind their behind? Come, now, pick these up!” And the guilty party came running…the rest of us usually hid.
However, within a few minutes, as his quick moving temper subsided, one or more of us would edge up to him, pressed against him for the hug, the joke, the new wonder or chore he would let us help him with in the garden. He planted beds of pansies that were as brightly colored as circus tents. I still miss his laughter and his tenderness wrapped in gruff man-speak that was saved especially for his grandchildren.
Grandad did not let us get away with laziness. He believed that taking care of what you had was important. Jesus’ sharp reproaches are to people who had chosen wickedness over God’s covenant. Jesus does not let them get away with laziness either. To fall into the ways of their pagan neighbors was to court disaster, just as in Isaiah, the Chosen People courted disaster by their turn to idols. Jesus wants these people to take care of what they have which was the opportunity for salvation. The images of Tyre and Sidon speak not only to the extent of the evil they have chosen but what their fate will look like if they do not repent.
Jesus holds out the hope of repentance. There is always forgiveness available just as with my grandfather there was always warm, protective loving even after the storm of his anger.
Action
In what way have I chosen to live as a resident of Tyre or Sidon? What must I repent? Confess, turn back, make amends, and choose another way to live. It is my choice which God gives freely.
Tuesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time
By Beth DeCristofaro
Jesus began to reproach the towns … "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented in sackcloth and ashes. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. (Matthew 11: 20-22)
Piety
God of repentance, you call all people to listen attentively to the good news of Jesus and to be converted from their old lives of sin to the new life he offers. Open our hearts to hear his preaching. Through our witness of his mighty deeds move us to authentic repentance of mind and heart. May we not be judged harshly but experience the depths of your mercy and love. We ask this through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen
(From Day by Ordinary Day with Matthew, Fr. Mark G. Boyer, p. 123)
Study
My grandfather died when I was 16. He was a big man, large in size and personality and we kids adored him. He was a retired Army Colonel who spent three years rebuilding destroyed railroads in Europe as the Allies advanced to end World War II. He was tough, blunt and I heard words out of his mouth that I didn’t understand and that no one would explain. One of the phrases that still resounds in my memory was when he bellowed (he never spoke quietly except in church) “Come here! Who dropped these toys behind their behind? Come, now, pick these up!” And the guilty party came running…the rest of us usually hid.
However, within a few minutes, as his quick moving temper subsided, one or more of us would edge up to him, pressed against him for the hug, the joke, the new wonder or chore he would let us help him with in the garden. He planted beds of pansies that were as brightly colored as circus tents. I still miss his laughter and his tenderness wrapped in gruff man-speak that was saved especially for his grandchildren.
Grandad did not let us get away with laziness. He believed that taking care of what you had was important. Jesus’ sharp reproaches are to people who had chosen wickedness over God’s covenant. Jesus does not let them get away with laziness either. To fall into the ways of their pagan neighbors was to court disaster, just as in Isaiah, the Chosen People courted disaster by their turn to idols. Jesus wants these people to take care of what they have which was the opportunity for salvation. The images of Tyre and Sidon speak not only to the extent of the evil they have chosen but what their fate will look like if they do not repent.
Jesus holds out the hope of repentance. There is always forgiveness available just as with my grandfather there was always warm, protective loving even after the storm of his anger.
Action
In what way have I chosen to live as a resident of Tyre or Sidon? What must I repent? Confess, turn back, make amends, and choose another way to live. It is my choice which God gives freely.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
To the Obedient
July 12, 2010
Monday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time
When you spread out your hands, I close my eyes to you; Though you pray the more, I will not listen. Your hands are full of blood! Wash yourselves clean! Put away your misdeeds from before my eyes; cease doing evil; learn to do good. Make justice your aim: redress the wronged, hear the orphan's plea, defend the widow. Isaiah 1:15-17
Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me. Matthew 10:37-38
Piety
“…Offer praise as your sacrifice to God; fulfill your vows to the Most High.
Then call on me in time of distress; I will rescue you, and you shall honor me.”
But to the wicked God says: “Why do you recite my commandments and profess my covenant with your lips?
You hate discipline; you cast my words behind you!
When you see thieves, you befriend them; with adulterers you throw in your lot.
You give your mouth free rein for evil; you harness your tongue to deceit.
You sit maligning your own kin, slandering the child of your own mother.
When you do these things should I be silent? Or do you think that I am like you? I accuse you, I lay the charge before you.
“Understand this, you who forget God, lest I attack you with no one to rescue.
Those who offer praise as a sacrifice honor me; to the obedient I will show the salvation of God.” Psalm 50:14-23
Study
Jesus and Isaiah are admonishing us to make sure that there is consistency between what is in our hearts and what is on our lips. As the prophet explains, no matter however numerous are the sacrifices offered to the Lord, they are not acceptable without the right moral fiber and outlook on the part of the worshiper.
Jesus takes this teaching a giant step forward. He explains that nothing, not even blood family, should come before our commitment to the Lord. This is a theme that has echoed through the Sunday Gospel according to St. Luke as well.
The cross is not some optional, pretty gold adornment for the Christian. These days, it is popular to have these large chains around the necks of singers and other performers. Unless the lives we lead measure up, then Jesus says these outward signs are meaningless without a matching commitment in our minds, on our lips and in our hearts.
The notes to the New American Bible explain that this reference to the cross in today’s Gospel is the first reference made by Matthew’s narrative. Those listening to it for the first time would have the fearful image of the means used by the Roman occupying army for torture and execution. However, the full context is yet to emerge.
Action
Last week, I was in a proverbial “taxi cab” in Vienna, Virginia. The driver was sharing with me his recent life developments including a special liturgy experienced on Corpus Christi Sunday last month at St John Bosco Church in Conygenham Pa. The words of the Gospel and homily that day really spoke to him. Fr. John said, “Get over you, and get on with God.”
Jesus is telling us today, in different words that we must get over putting ourselves and our egos and desires ahead of the Lord’s work. “Get over you and get on with God.” What are you putting before your commitment to God?
Monday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time
When you spread out your hands, I close my eyes to you; Though you pray the more, I will not listen. Your hands are full of blood! Wash yourselves clean! Put away your misdeeds from before my eyes; cease doing evil; learn to do good. Make justice your aim: redress the wronged, hear the orphan's plea, defend the widow. Isaiah 1:15-17
Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me. Matthew 10:37-38
Piety
“…Offer praise as your sacrifice to God; fulfill your vows to the Most High.
Then call on me in time of distress; I will rescue you, and you shall honor me.”
But to the wicked God says: “Why do you recite my commandments and profess my covenant with your lips?
You hate discipline; you cast my words behind you!
When you see thieves, you befriend them; with adulterers you throw in your lot.
You give your mouth free rein for evil; you harness your tongue to deceit.
You sit maligning your own kin, slandering the child of your own mother.
When you do these things should I be silent? Or do you think that I am like you? I accuse you, I lay the charge before you.
“Understand this, you who forget God, lest I attack you with no one to rescue.
Those who offer praise as a sacrifice honor me; to the obedient I will show the salvation of God.” Psalm 50:14-23
Study
Jesus and Isaiah are admonishing us to make sure that there is consistency between what is in our hearts and what is on our lips. As the prophet explains, no matter however numerous are the sacrifices offered to the Lord, they are not acceptable without the right moral fiber and outlook on the part of the worshiper.
Jesus takes this teaching a giant step forward. He explains that nothing, not even blood family, should come before our commitment to the Lord. This is a theme that has echoed through the Sunday Gospel according to St. Luke as well.
The cross is not some optional, pretty gold adornment for the Christian. These days, it is popular to have these large chains around the necks of singers and other performers. Unless the lives we lead measure up, then Jesus says these outward signs are meaningless without a matching commitment in our minds, on our lips and in our hearts.
The notes to the New American Bible explain that this reference to the cross in today’s Gospel is the first reference made by Matthew’s narrative. Those listening to it for the first time would have the fearful image of the means used by the Roman occupying army for torture and execution. However, the full context is yet to emerge.
Action
Last week, I was in a proverbial “taxi cab” in Vienna, Virginia. The driver was sharing with me his recent life developments including a special liturgy experienced on Corpus Christi Sunday last month at St John Bosco Church in Conygenham Pa. The words of the Gospel and homily that day really spoke to him. Fr. John said, “Get over you, and get on with God.”
Jesus is telling us today, in different words that we must get over putting ourselves and our egos and desires ahead of the Lord’s work. “Get over you and get on with God.” What are you putting before your commitment to God?
Saturday, July 10, 2010
If Only
July 11, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
By Rev. Joe McCloskey, SJ
“…[I]f only you heed the voice of the LORD, your God, and keep his commandments and statutes that are written in this book of the law, when you return to the LORD, your God, with all your heart and all your soul.” Deuteronomy 30:10
“[I]n [Jesus] all the fullness was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile all things for him, making peace by the blood of his cross 11 (through him), whether those on earth or those in heaven.” Colossians 1:19-20
"Go and do likewise." Luke 10:37c
Piety
The challenge of the Good Samaritan is ongoing in our lives. How do I help the person that has no right to my help? How do I help the person that I think is trying to rip me off? Among all the people that I would help, there is the one that forces help out of me that I do not know how to handle. I give a little to everyone. But the person who claims from me more than I want to give always leaves a bad taste in my mouth because as sure as I am that he is trying to rip me off, the voice in my heart tells me I did not do enough. It is the last drop of blood that Christ gives from the cross that leaves me feeling bad about the smallness of my heart. As sure as I am that I am being ripped off, there is no doubt that it is the voice of Christ at work in my heart that leaves me feeling uncomfortable when I have not done enough. I can never do enough until I have given Christ to the one who does not look like he needs what he is asking for. I know piety is the ability to not just listen to the voice of Christ in our hearts but it is the ability to do something about Christ’s urging us to go beyond common sense and to give until it hurts. When I listen to that voice and go beyond common sense I realize a happiness that is not had by using what I have for myself. Love is the perfect place to find God in our lives. What we do for the least one in our lives is what we do for Christ.
Study
Christ says that he loves us as much as the Father has loved him. The love of Christ is what we are challenged to in the parable of the Good Samaritan. We are challenged by Christ to live in his love. Love one another as I have loved you is a big order. He gave his life for me. I cannot hide from that fact by watering it down by saying he did it for all of us. My study is in reality a making of a decision to be the love of Christ in our world. Love one another as I have loved you. How can you say you love the God you do not see if you do not love the neighbor that you do see. A Christ love demands we share what we have with others. It is not a case of getting rid of what I do not need. If I am going to give until it hurts, I need to give from the essentials of my life. What am I holding back is what our study is all about in the honesty of our hearts.
Action
Action speaks louder than words. Show me what you have done in your charity and I will see your faith that does justice. We live in a country that spends about 80% of the energy and resources of our world. War to protect what we have has to be looked at against the love of Christ from the Cross. We need to know where we are hurting in our giving to those who need if we want to be able to rest in our love of Christ. His love will not let us pass by those who need our help. I do not earn the right to protect my comfort zone by how hard I work. I earn the right to share the love of Christ in the abundance of what God’s love and God’s gifts make possible in my life. WE are called to be the Good Samaritans of today.
Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
By Rev. Joe McCloskey, SJ
“…[I]f only you heed the voice of the LORD, your God, and keep his commandments and statutes that are written in this book of the law, when you return to the LORD, your God, with all your heart and all your soul.” Deuteronomy 30:10
“[I]n [Jesus] all the fullness was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile all things for him, making peace by the blood of his cross 11 (through him), whether those on earth or those in heaven.” Colossians 1:19-20
"Go and do likewise." Luke 10:37c
Piety
The challenge of the Good Samaritan is ongoing in our lives. How do I help the person that has no right to my help? How do I help the person that I think is trying to rip me off? Among all the people that I would help, there is the one that forces help out of me that I do not know how to handle. I give a little to everyone. But the person who claims from me more than I want to give always leaves a bad taste in my mouth because as sure as I am that he is trying to rip me off, the voice in my heart tells me I did not do enough. It is the last drop of blood that Christ gives from the cross that leaves me feeling bad about the smallness of my heart. As sure as I am that I am being ripped off, there is no doubt that it is the voice of Christ at work in my heart that leaves me feeling uncomfortable when I have not done enough. I can never do enough until I have given Christ to the one who does not look like he needs what he is asking for. I know piety is the ability to not just listen to the voice of Christ in our hearts but it is the ability to do something about Christ’s urging us to go beyond common sense and to give until it hurts. When I listen to that voice and go beyond common sense I realize a happiness that is not had by using what I have for myself. Love is the perfect place to find God in our lives. What we do for the least one in our lives is what we do for Christ.
Study
Christ says that he loves us as much as the Father has loved him. The love of Christ is what we are challenged to in the parable of the Good Samaritan. We are challenged by Christ to live in his love. Love one another as I have loved you is a big order. He gave his life for me. I cannot hide from that fact by watering it down by saying he did it for all of us. My study is in reality a making of a decision to be the love of Christ in our world. Love one another as I have loved you. How can you say you love the God you do not see if you do not love the neighbor that you do see. A Christ love demands we share what we have with others. It is not a case of getting rid of what I do not need. If I am going to give until it hurts, I need to give from the essentials of my life. What am I holding back is what our study is all about in the honesty of our hearts.
Action
Action speaks louder than words. Show me what you have done in your charity and I will see your faith that does justice. We live in a country that spends about 80% of the energy and resources of our world. War to protect what we have has to be looked at against the love of Christ from the Cross. We need to know where we are hurting in our giving to those who need if we want to be able to rest in our love of Christ. His love will not let us pass by those who need our help. I do not earn the right to protect my comfort zone by how hard I work. I earn the right to share the love of Christ in the abundance of what God’s love and God’s gifts make possible in my life. WE are called to be the Good Samaritans of today.
He Touched My Mouth
July 10, 2010
Saturday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
He touched my mouth with it. “See,” he said, “now that this has touched your lips, your wickedness is removed, your sin purged.” Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?” “Here I am,” I said; “send me!” Isaiah 6:7-8
What I say to you in the darkness, speak in the light; what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna. Matthew 10:27-28
Piety
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6fYAiqV-Bs
I, the Lord of sea and sky,
I have heard my people cry.
All who dwell in dark and sin
My hand will save.
I who made the stars and night,
I will make the darkness bright
Who will bear my light to them?
Whom shall I send?
Here I am Lord
Is it I Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night
I will go Lord
If you lead me
I will hold your people in my heart.
Study
As a society, we are very pre-occupied with purification lately. With the H1N1 virus and other bodily germs, you can dare enter a building without being offered a free dispenser of Purel or other hand sanitizer. People have it on their desks, in their pockets and purses. Eucharistic ministers at our parish use it before stepping up to the altar before serving for Communion. We have been told that instant hand sanitizers safely and effectively destroy the majority of bacteria and viruses that can cause illnesses. It is critical to remember, however, that to do this, instant sanitizers are potently toxic chemicals which if used improperly, can be dangerous. Woe is me. I am doomed to be infected with bird flu, H1N1 or some other exotic, modern disease.
How many of us would even turn on our computer without having Norton Anti-Virus, McAffee, Kaprisky or other software installed to protect us from the evils that lurk in the Internet age? These evils are designed to wreak havoc on our machines or worse to steal our identity and wreak havoc in our personal and financial lives. We have been told that the Internet can help us safely and effectively live better lives. It is critical to remember that to do this, requires that we must use it with caution. Woe is me! I am doomed to have my system crash and face hours, days or months rebuilding my computer and life.
What are your experiences with violence? In a class on peacemaking, author and columnist Coleman McCarthy asked those assembled about our experiences with violence. He painted the scenario of walking down a strange city street at night. Approaching us was an unknown person. Many people would cross the street or get to the safety of a lighted pathway as quickly as possible. He then asked how many of the class (about 100 people) had been victims of a violent act by a total stranger. Maybe three or four hands went up. Professor McCarthy then inquired how many of us were victims of a violent act by someone we knew. About 65 hands went up. Even though we might be careful around strangers, we might now take those same steps around people we know. Woe is me! I am doomed to suffer at the hands of my enemies and strangers as well as my friends and family.
Isaiah was symbolically purified to be worthy of his vocation as God's prophet when the hot embers from the altar touched his lips. In Mass, our celebrant reenacts this ritual purification immediately before the Gospel is read by making the sign of the cross on the Bible, his head, his lips and his heart. We follow that example praying that the Word of God will purify our minds, our lips and our hearts.
Despite all the dangers of modern society, Matthew shares with us Jesus’ warning. “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” Isaiah also reminds us that the Lord is there to protect us. Unconditionally. He will purify us from what ever dangers lurk in the valley, on the mountains or on the streets. No Questions Asked.
Action
What challenge are you ready to tackle in return for your purification? Just as the Lord purified Isaiah unconditionally, He offers the same to us every day. Once cleansed from the sin of humanity, the Lord then needs servants to carry his word and words from the sanctuary to the streets. Whom shall He send?
Are you ready to repeat the words of Isaiah? “Here I am, Lord! Send me!” What actions will the hot embers of the Good News propel you to accomplish today?
Saturday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
He touched my mouth with it. “See,” he said, “now that this has touched your lips, your wickedness is removed, your sin purged.” Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?” “Here I am,” I said; “send me!” Isaiah 6:7-8
What I say to you in the darkness, speak in the light; what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna. Matthew 10:27-28
Piety
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6fYAiqV-Bs
I, the Lord of sea and sky,
I have heard my people cry.
All who dwell in dark and sin
My hand will save.
I who made the stars and night,
I will make the darkness bright
Who will bear my light to them?
Whom shall I send?
Here I am Lord
Is it I Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night
I will go Lord
If you lead me
I will hold your people in my heart.
Study
As a society, we are very pre-occupied with purification lately. With the H1N1 virus and other bodily germs, you can dare enter a building without being offered a free dispenser of Purel or other hand sanitizer. People have it on their desks, in their pockets and purses. Eucharistic ministers at our parish use it before stepping up to the altar before serving for Communion. We have been told that instant hand sanitizers safely and effectively destroy the majority of bacteria and viruses that can cause illnesses. It is critical to remember, however, that to do this, instant sanitizers are potently toxic chemicals which if used improperly, can be dangerous. Woe is me. I am doomed to be infected with bird flu, H1N1 or some other exotic, modern disease.
How many of us would even turn on our computer without having Norton Anti-Virus, McAffee, Kaprisky or other software installed to protect us from the evils that lurk in the Internet age? These evils are designed to wreak havoc on our machines or worse to steal our identity and wreak havoc in our personal and financial lives. We have been told that the Internet can help us safely and effectively live better lives. It is critical to remember that to do this, requires that we must use it with caution. Woe is me! I am doomed to have my system crash and face hours, days or months rebuilding my computer and life.
What are your experiences with violence? In a class on peacemaking, author and columnist Coleman McCarthy asked those assembled about our experiences with violence. He painted the scenario of walking down a strange city street at night. Approaching us was an unknown person. Many people would cross the street or get to the safety of a lighted pathway as quickly as possible. He then asked how many of the class (about 100 people) had been victims of a violent act by a total stranger. Maybe three or four hands went up. Professor McCarthy then inquired how many of us were victims of a violent act by someone we knew. About 65 hands went up. Even though we might be careful around strangers, we might now take those same steps around people we know. Woe is me! I am doomed to suffer at the hands of my enemies and strangers as well as my friends and family.
Isaiah was symbolically purified to be worthy of his vocation as God's prophet when the hot embers from the altar touched his lips. In Mass, our celebrant reenacts this ritual purification immediately before the Gospel is read by making the sign of the cross on the Bible, his head, his lips and his heart. We follow that example praying that the Word of God will purify our minds, our lips and our hearts.
Despite all the dangers of modern society, Matthew shares with us Jesus’ warning. “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” Isaiah also reminds us that the Lord is there to protect us. Unconditionally. He will purify us from what ever dangers lurk in the valley, on the mountains or on the streets. No Questions Asked.
Action
What challenge are you ready to tackle in return for your purification? Just as the Lord purified Isaiah unconditionally, He offers the same to us every day. Once cleansed from the sin of humanity, the Lord then needs servants to carry his word and words from the sanctuary to the streets. Whom shall He send?
Are you ready to repeat the words of Isaiah? “Here I am, Lord! Send me!” What actions will the hot embers of the Good News propel you to accomplish today?
Thursday, July 08, 2010
My Mouth Shall Proclaim Your Praise
July 9, 2010
Friday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
By Melanie Rigney
Straight are the paths of the Lord, in them the just walk, but the sinners stumble in them. (Hosea 14:10)
Give me back the joy of your salvation, and a willing spirit sustain in me. O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall proclaim your praise. (Psalms 51:14, 17)
“You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 10:22)
Piety
Lord, armed with the joy of Your salvation, I will endure to the end.
Study
“Above All”
For the singers, orators, and writers among us, that proclaiming of God’s praise in a public way can look easy. We get the opportunity at Mass, Ultreyas, and other gatherings of the faithful. People send us notes that make us tear up and humbled at the way God reaches them through us. Sometimes, people even use our words on their Facebook pages to sum up their journey of the moment, or make videos to go on YouTube with our songs.
But what about those of us who can’t carry a tune, who don’t like getting up in public, or who would rather walk across a bed of burning coals than write an essay or a devotional? How do we open our lips to proclaim His praise?
It’s easy.
We do it when we listen rather than walk away from or interrupt a friend in crisis who shares a lengthy, rambling story. And sometimes, that friend says thank you after the storm.
We do it when we offer a homeless person a meal or a dollar or a smile or help in finding shelter rather than walking by without a word. And sometimes, that person says thank you for the simple acknowledgment that he or she is a human being.
We do it when we say, “I’ll pray for you” rather than saying “I hope it all turns out all right” when a coworker or neighbor we’re not sure is a Christian tells us about an illness or death or other challenge in his or her family. And sometimes, that person says thank you and tells us that seemingly small statement changed his or her life.
For while Christ warned us we will be hated because of His name, He also sometimes lets us see the miracles He works through us if we dare to proclaim His praise as we stumble down that often crooked path called life. And it can be those small glimpses of grace in action that help make our journeys a little straighter and easier.
Action
What will you do today to proclaim God’s praise—and endure?
Friday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
By Melanie Rigney
Straight are the paths of the Lord, in them the just walk, but the sinners stumble in them. (Hosea 14:10)
Give me back the joy of your salvation, and a willing spirit sustain in me. O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall proclaim your praise. (Psalms 51:14, 17)
“You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 10:22)
Piety
Lord, armed with the joy of Your salvation, I will endure to the end.
Study
“Above All”
For the singers, orators, and writers among us, that proclaiming of God’s praise in a public way can look easy. We get the opportunity at Mass, Ultreyas, and other gatherings of the faithful. People send us notes that make us tear up and humbled at the way God reaches them through us. Sometimes, people even use our words on their Facebook pages to sum up their journey of the moment, or make videos to go on YouTube with our songs.
But what about those of us who can’t carry a tune, who don’t like getting up in public, or who would rather walk across a bed of burning coals than write an essay or a devotional? How do we open our lips to proclaim His praise?
It’s easy.
We do it when we listen rather than walk away from or interrupt a friend in crisis who shares a lengthy, rambling story. And sometimes, that friend says thank you after the storm.
We do it when we offer a homeless person a meal or a dollar or a smile or help in finding shelter rather than walking by without a word. And sometimes, that person says thank you for the simple acknowledgment that he or she is a human being.
We do it when we say, “I’ll pray for you” rather than saying “I hope it all turns out all right” when a coworker or neighbor we’re not sure is a Christian tells us about an illness or death or other challenge in his or her family. And sometimes, that person says thank you and tells us that seemingly small statement changed his or her life.
For while Christ warned us we will be hated because of His name, He also sometimes lets us see the miracles He works through us if we dare to proclaim His praise as we stumble down that often crooked path called life. And it can be those small glimpses of grace in action that help make our journeys a little straighter and easier.
Action
What will you do today to proclaim God’s praise—and endure?
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Present Among You
July 8, 2010
Thursday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
“The more I called them, the farther they went from me…” Hosea 11:2a
As you enter a house, wish it peace. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; if not, let your peace return to you. Matthew 10:12-13
Piety
The Spirit of Christ sends us into the world. To the degree that we are guided not by our fears but by the power of the Spirit, we become aware of the needs of the world and we experience a deep desire to be of service. The prisoners, the sick, the hungry, the homeless, as well as the many who are entangled in war or in the preparation for war, are shown to us as brothers and sisters with whom we are united in solidarity.
(Henri J. M. Nouwen. A Cry for Mercy: Prayers from the Genesee. New York: Doubleday, 2002. Page 105)
Study
God is present among his people, among us. That unquenchable love calls to us with bonds of love, yet we fail to recognize him. Despite this failure, the Lord did not turn from the people in Hosea’s time and he will not turn from us. Instead, because he is “God, not man,” the Lord remains present among us through the Holy Spirit.
In the great commissioning that Matthew relates in today’s Gospel, Jesus asks to hold up our end of the covenant two ways: First being present to Him and then being present to each other.
God is present among us and asks us to be present to all those we meet. Jesus asks us to bring peace to them.
Action
Where do we see the face of God today? Is it on the cross hanging in our churches and homes? Is it in the icons that decorate our schools and lives? Or is it also in the faces of those we meet every day. The faces of the Metro bus driver. The faces of the movie theatre ticket takers. The faces of our fellow commuters. The faces of the gardeners. The faces of the children. The faces of the gang members. The faces of the prisoners. The faces of the sick.
Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. To whom are you being asked to give today? Notice those around you and be present to them through your love in action today.
Thursday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
“The more I called them, the farther they went from me…” Hosea 11:2a
As you enter a house, wish it peace. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; if not, let your peace return to you. Matthew 10:12-13
Piety
The Spirit of Christ sends us into the world. To the degree that we are guided not by our fears but by the power of the Spirit, we become aware of the needs of the world and we experience a deep desire to be of service. The prisoners, the sick, the hungry, the homeless, as well as the many who are entangled in war or in the preparation for war, are shown to us as brothers and sisters with whom we are united in solidarity.
(Henri J. M. Nouwen. A Cry for Mercy: Prayers from the Genesee. New York: Doubleday, 2002. Page 105)
Study
God is present among his people, among us. That unquenchable love calls to us with bonds of love, yet we fail to recognize him. Despite this failure, the Lord did not turn from the people in Hosea’s time and he will not turn from us. Instead, because he is “God, not man,” the Lord remains present among us through the Holy Spirit.
In the great commissioning that Matthew relates in today’s Gospel, Jesus asks to hold up our end of the covenant two ways: First being present to Him and then being present to each other.
God is present among us and asks us to be present to all those we meet. Jesus asks us to bring peace to them.
Action
Where do we see the face of God today? Is it on the cross hanging in our churches and homes? Is it in the icons that decorate our schools and lives? Or is it also in the faces of those we meet every day. The faces of the Metro bus driver. The faces of the movie theatre ticket takers. The faces of our fellow commuters. The faces of the gardeners. The faces of the children. The faces of the gang members. The faces of the prisoners. The faces of the sick.
Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. To whom are you being asked to give today? Notice those around you and be present to them through your love in action today.
Monday, July 05, 2010
Time to Seek
July 7, 2010
Wednesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
"Sow for yourselves justice, reap the fruit of piety; Break up for yourselves a new field, for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain down justice upon you." Hosea 10:12
“Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” Matthew 10:6-7
Piety
There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to uproot the plant.
A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to tear down, and a time to build.
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.
A time to scatter stones, and a time to gather them; a time to embrace, and a time to be far from embraces.
A time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away.
A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to be silent, and a time to speak.
A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Study
Who doesn’t remember that precious little red-haired girl Annie singing on Broadway these famous, hopeful words? Despite her dreadful life in an orphanage, she maintained a positive, hopeful attitude.
The sun'll come out
Tomorrow
So ya gotta hang on
'Til tomorrow
Come what may
Tomorrow! Tomorrow!
I love ya Tomorrow!
You're always
A day
A way!
We, however, can not wait until tomorrow to begin our work for the Lord. As Hosea points out, NOW is the time to seek the Lord. No matter what we are enduring today – illness, disease, unemployment, traffic jams, family squabbles – our hope is in the Lord. He sends us out today to bring his friendship and his words to the lost sheep of Virginia, Maryland, Washington, DC and beyond.
What advantage has the worker from his toil? I have considered the task which God has appointed for men to be busied about. He has made everything appropriate to its time, and has put the timeless into their hearts, without men's ever discovering, from beginning to end, the work which God has done. Ecclesiastes 3:9-11
Action
“Blood diamonds” have faded away, but we may now be carrying “blood phones.” That may be the dirty little secret you are carrying in your pocket or purse in the shape of that IPhone, Blackberry, or other device.
This warning was shared by columnist Nicholas Kristoff in the New York Times last month. “An ugly paradox of the 21st century is that some of our elegant symbols of modernity — smartphones, laptops and digital cameras — are built from minerals that seem to be fueling mass slaughter and rape in Congo. With throngs waiting in lines in the last few days to buy the latest iPhone, I’m thinking: What if we could harness that desperation for new technologies to the desperate need to curb the killing in central Africa?”
A campaign has begun in which users of these devices can urge the makers to demand that their suppliers use sources other than the Congo for such minerals. To learn more about conflict minerals and how you can help end war in the Congo, visit www.raisehopeforcongo.org.
On behalf of young boys who are conscripted into the army, young girls who are raped and 5.4 million people who have been killed in this war, please don’t wait until tomorrow to write to your political leaders. As Mr. Kristoff wrote last month, “We may be able to undercut some of the world’s most brutal militias simply by making it clear to electronics manufacturers that we don’t want our beloved gadgets to enrich sadistic gunmen. No phone or tablet computer can be considered “cool” if it may be helping perpetuate one of the most brutal wars on the planet.”
No one is blaming Apple, or HP or Nokia for funding this war. However, demanding that they produce products with conflict-free materials will support efforts by a group of companies led by Intel and Motorola to develop a process to audit origins of conflict minerals in their supply chains.
While you are considering this action, check out the video about it on You Tube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Ycih_jMObQ
Wednesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
"Sow for yourselves justice, reap the fruit of piety; Break up for yourselves a new field, for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain down justice upon you." Hosea 10:12
“Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” Matthew 10:6-7
Piety
There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to uproot the plant.
A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to tear down, and a time to build.
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.
A time to scatter stones, and a time to gather them; a time to embrace, and a time to be far from embraces.
A time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away.
A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to be silent, and a time to speak.
A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Study
Who doesn’t remember that precious little red-haired girl Annie singing on Broadway these famous, hopeful words? Despite her dreadful life in an orphanage, she maintained a positive, hopeful attitude.
The sun'll come out
Tomorrow
So ya gotta hang on
'Til tomorrow
Come what may
Tomorrow! Tomorrow!
I love ya Tomorrow!
You're always
A day
A way!
We, however, can not wait until tomorrow to begin our work for the Lord. As Hosea points out, NOW is the time to seek the Lord. No matter what we are enduring today – illness, disease, unemployment, traffic jams, family squabbles – our hope is in the Lord. He sends us out today to bring his friendship and his words to the lost sheep of Virginia, Maryland, Washington, DC and beyond.
What advantage has the worker from his toil? I have considered the task which God has appointed for men to be busied about. He has made everything appropriate to its time, and has put the timeless into their hearts, without men's ever discovering, from beginning to end, the work which God has done. Ecclesiastes 3:9-11
Action
“Blood diamonds” have faded away, but we may now be carrying “blood phones.” That may be the dirty little secret you are carrying in your pocket or purse in the shape of that IPhone, Blackberry, or other device.
This warning was shared by columnist Nicholas Kristoff in the New York Times last month. “An ugly paradox of the 21st century is that some of our elegant symbols of modernity — smartphones, laptops and digital cameras — are built from minerals that seem to be fueling mass slaughter and rape in Congo. With throngs waiting in lines in the last few days to buy the latest iPhone, I’m thinking: What if we could harness that desperation for new technologies to the desperate need to curb the killing in central Africa?”
A campaign has begun in which users of these devices can urge the makers to demand that their suppliers use sources other than the Congo for such minerals. To learn more about conflict minerals and how you can help end war in the Congo, visit www.raisehopeforcongo.org.
On behalf of young boys who are conscripted into the army, young girls who are raped and 5.4 million people who have been killed in this war, please don’t wait until tomorrow to write to your political leaders. As Mr. Kristoff wrote last month, “We may be able to undercut some of the world’s most brutal militias simply by making it clear to electronics manufacturers that we don’t want our beloved gadgets to enrich sadistic gunmen. No phone or tablet computer can be considered “cool” if it may be helping perpetuate one of the most brutal wars on the planet.”
No one is blaming Apple, or HP or Nokia for funding this war. However, demanding that they produce products with conflict-free materials will support efforts by a group of companies led by Intel and Motorola to develop a process to audit origins of conflict minerals in their supply chains.
While you are considering this action, check out the video about it on You Tube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Ycih_jMObQ
Jesus’ Heart was Moved
July 6, 2010
Tuesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
By Beth DeCristofaro
With their silver and gold they made idols for themselves, to their own destruction. (Hosea 8:4)
At the sight of the crowds, (Jesus’) heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest." (Matthew 9:36-38)
Piety
Not the intellect, but God; not the will, but God; not the soul, but God; not taste, but God; not touch, but God; not the heart, but God; not food and drink, but God; not clothing, but God, not rest in bed, but God; not wealth, but God; not honor, but God – God in all and always. (St. Vincent Palloti)
Study
In ancient Israel, Hosea announced God’s displeasure with the People who, taking over sites which had been used by pagans for worship, built their own altars. However, they then fell into the worship of idols rather than staying true to God. In Matthew, Jesus looks around and sees the plight of the People looking for God and his heart is moved with compassion.
During the last week in the liturgical readings we have seen Jesus calling his friends, often from the bottom of society. We have seen Jesus performing miracles of healing and forgiveness. We have seen Jesus set strict boundaries on those who would follow him: “Let the dead bury their dead”. We have witnessed Jesus living out the love of God among men and women. Using imagery from the Old Testament, where Moses asks God to set out a leader because the Israelites were like sheep without a shepherd, Jesus is establishing himself not only as shepherd but aligning himself with the fruits of the harvest. And the work of the laborers is love, compassion, and speaking the Word of His life to all especially the poor and downtrodden that follow Jesus to find life.
Action
“Speaking of Faith” on NPR featured an interview with Shane Claiborne Sunday. Shane is one of the founders of a movement known as the “new monastics” striving to live a Gospel life in response to the needs of the poor. Take a few minutes and listen to this inspiring story of an Evangelical Christian who takes Jesus words seriously: his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. Who in your neighborhood, parish or family is troubled and abandoned? What can you do to be a laborer for God’s harvest?
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/programs/2010/monastic-revolution/
Tuesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
By Beth DeCristofaro
With their silver and gold they made idols for themselves, to their own destruction. (Hosea 8:4)
At the sight of the crowds, (Jesus’) heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest." (Matthew 9:36-38)
Piety
Not the intellect, but God; not the will, but God; not the soul, but God; not taste, but God; not touch, but God; not the heart, but God; not food and drink, but God; not clothing, but God, not rest in bed, but God; not wealth, but God; not honor, but God – God in all and always. (St. Vincent Palloti)
Study
In ancient Israel, Hosea announced God’s displeasure with the People who, taking over sites which had been used by pagans for worship, built their own altars. However, they then fell into the worship of idols rather than staying true to God. In Matthew, Jesus looks around and sees the plight of the People looking for God and his heart is moved with compassion.
During the last week in the liturgical readings we have seen Jesus calling his friends, often from the bottom of society. We have seen Jesus performing miracles of healing and forgiveness. We have seen Jesus set strict boundaries on those who would follow him: “Let the dead bury their dead”. We have witnessed Jesus living out the love of God among men and women. Using imagery from the Old Testament, where Moses asks God to set out a leader because the Israelites were like sheep without a shepherd, Jesus is establishing himself not only as shepherd but aligning himself with the fruits of the harvest. And the work of the laborers is love, compassion, and speaking the Word of His life to all especially the poor and downtrodden that follow Jesus to find life.
Action
“Speaking of Faith” on NPR featured an interview with Shane Claiborne Sunday. Shane is one of the founders of a movement known as the “new monastics” striving to live a Gospel life in response to the needs of the poor. Take a few minutes and listen to this inspiring story of an Evangelical Christian who takes Jesus words seriously: his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. Who in your neighborhood, parish or family is troubled and abandoned? What can you do to be a laborer for God’s harvest?
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/programs/2010/monastic-revolution/
Sunday, July 04, 2010
Beyond Understanding
July 5, 2010
Monday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
I will espouse you to me forever: I will espouse you in right and in justice, in love and in mercy; I will espouse you in fidelity, and you shall know the LORD. Hosea 2:21-22
While he was saying these things to them, an official came forward, knelt down before him, and said, "My daughter has just died. But come, lay your hand on her, and she will live." Jesus rose and followed him, and so did his disciples. Matthew 9:18-19
Piety
Every day I will bless you; I will praise your name forever.
Great is the LORD and worthy of high praise; God's grandeur is beyond understanding.
One generation praises your deeds to the next and proclaims your mighty works.
They speak of the splendor of your majestic glory, tell of your wonderful deeds.
They speak of your fearsome power and attest to your great deeds.
They publish the renown of your abounding goodness and joyfully sing of your justice.
The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in love.
The LORD is good to all, compassionate to every creature. (Psalm 145:2-9)
Study
Despite everything, the Lord just will not give up on this idea of covenant with his people. Hosea’s prophetic career occurred around 786-746 B.C. By that time, the chosen people had exercised numerous opportunities to turn their backs on the Lord, to ignore his commandments, to fight wars in his name, and more.
Yet, no matter what we do, the Lord remains kind and merciful. He just wants us to get to know him better in a downright practical friendship sense. After all, that is the cornerstone of Christianity and this movement we call Cursillo.
What happens when we are obedient to the will of the Lord? The Gospel has two shining examples of people whose faith in the Lord was rewarded with healing for themselves and the ones they love. God’s grandeur shines through just as the psalmist sings.
Action
This resurrection story certainly gets the people to sit up and take notice. People do not rise from the dead as a regular occurrence. However, I challenge you to follow some of the other details of this story.
See how easily and quickly Jesus follows the official to his home to attend to the sick child. He does not make excuses. He does not have to check his calendar. He is not preoccupied with text messaging on his Blackberry/IPhone/Facebook account, etc. Jesus is asked to do something and he responds.
How quickly can we respond when a need arises? Sure, when a major disaster strikes, we jump to send money to the Red Cross or CRS for earthquake, hurricane or other relief needed. But what about the other everyday occurrences like when a friend is in the hospital, a neighbor loses a job, or the shelves of the food pantry are running low.
Check out your to-do list this week. Make a point of adding one more charitable act, volunteer job, or in-kind donation to the list.
Monday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
I will espouse you to me forever: I will espouse you in right and in justice, in love and in mercy; I will espouse you in fidelity, and you shall know the LORD. Hosea 2:21-22
While he was saying these things to them, an official came forward, knelt down before him, and said, "My daughter has just died. But come, lay your hand on her, and she will live." Jesus rose and followed him, and so did his disciples. Matthew 9:18-19
Piety
Every day I will bless you; I will praise your name forever.
Great is the LORD and worthy of high praise; God's grandeur is beyond understanding.
One generation praises your deeds to the next and proclaims your mighty works.
They speak of the splendor of your majestic glory, tell of your wonderful deeds.
They speak of your fearsome power and attest to your great deeds.
They publish the renown of your abounding goodness and joyfully sing of your justice.
The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in love.
The LORD is good to all, compassionate to every creature. (Psalm 145:2-9)
Study
Despite everything, the Lord just will not give up on this idea of covenant with his people. Hosea’s prophetic career occurred around 786-746 B.C. By that time, the chosen people had exercised numerous opportunities to turn their backs on the Lord, to ignore his commandments, to fight wars in his name, and more.
Yet, no matter what we do, the Lord remains kind and merciful. He just wants us to get to know him better in a downright practical friendship sense. After all, that is the cornerstone of Christianity and this movement we call Cursillo.
What happens when we are obedient to the will of the Lord? The Gospel has two shining examples of people whose faith in the Lord was rewarded with healing for themselves and the ones they love. God’s grandeur shines through just as the psalmist sings.
Action
This resurrection story certainly gets the people to sit up and take notice. People do not rise from the dead as a regular occurrence. However, I challenge you to follow some of the other details of this story.
See how easily and quickly Jesus follows the official to his home to attend to the sick child. He does not make excuses. He does not have to check his calendar. He is not preoccupied with text messaging on his Blackberry/IPhone/Facebook account, etc. Jesus is asked to do something and he responds.
How quickly can we respond when a need arises? Sure, when a major disaster strikes, we jump to send money to the Red Cross or CRS for earthquake, hurricane or other relief needed. But what about the other everyday occurrences like when a friend is in the hospital, a neighbor loses a job, or the shelves of the food pantry are running low.
Check out your to-do list this week. Make a point of adding one more charitable act, volunteer job, or in-kind donation to the list.
Saturday, July 03, 2010
Rejoice!
Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
By Rev. Joe McCloskey, SJ
Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad because of her, all you who love her; Exult, exult with her, all you who were mourning over her! Isaiah 66:10
But may I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither does circumcision mean anything, nor does uncircumcision, but only a new creation. Galatians 6:14-15
“The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way.” Luke 10:2-3a
Piety
Isaiah says; “Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad because of her, all you who love her.” The Lord promises prosperity and good things. Jerusalem stands for the Holy City. Heaven awaits all who love the Lord. All the earth cries out to God with joy. Creation sings a hymn of praise to God. Creation speaks the great love God has for us. Paul tells us he never boasts except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to him and he to the world. Paul tells us he bears the marks of Jesus on his body. Whether he had the stigmata or not on his body, I do not know. I do know that he went through terrible tortures in his efforts to share Christ with his people. We cannot read his letters without being amazed at what pains he went through in order to share Christ. It is not hard to imagine the marks of the ship wrecks and scourging he went through in order to proclaim Christ. We know he was left for dead after stoning. Bruises never completely heal. He had a right to boast how much he was like Christ in the crosses of his life. I have to ask myself what I have suffered for Christ.
Study
The invitation of Christ is to take up our crosses and to follow him. Our claim to fame in heaven will be found in the share we have of the tree of glory. The wood of my crosses seems to be more splinters than anything else. I always think of the young person brought to me by the mother because her daughter was upset by the way her friends were taunting her for being Catholic. When I congratulated her for having been able to suffer for Christ, the mother looked at me for a moment like I had lost my mind. Then she realized what I had said. We all have a right to glory in our being like Christ. All the ways that I see I have suffered for him need to be boated about and we need to be glad we are becoming more like Christ. Anyone can follow Christ in the good times. It is in the bad times that the real friends of Christ stand out in the crosses they carried.
Action
We need to make a commitment to redemptive suffering in our lives. We too need to be able to rejoice that we have been worth to suffer for the name. What is the something that is going to cost me time and effort that I can do to make a better world? What is the challenge of God’s love in our lives that he is asking us to put up with by suffering in the name of Christ for our friends? It is too easy to walk around the suffering of others in our world. It is almost as if we need disasters before we are willing to open up our pocketbooks to help others. Actions follow decisions of our hearts. The trip from the head to the heart allows us to do what common sense tells us not to be involved in. We need to follow the God sense our heart teaches us in Christ. Because Christ died for us, we can offer ourselves in his name for a better world for our family and friends. Redemptive suffering is the action we need in our lives to be able to rejoice with Paul that we are Christ’s disciples. The seventy-two disciples who went out in the name of Christ rejoiced in what they could do in the name of Christ. We need us to go out with them to spread the good news that Christ still is in our world.
By Rev. Joe McCloskey, SJ
Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad because of her, all you who love her; Exult, exult with her, all you who were mourning over her! Isaiah 66:10
But may I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither does circumcision mean anything, nor does uncircumcision, but only a new creation. Galatians 6:14-15
“The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way.” Luke 10:2-3a
Piety
Isaiah says; “Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad because of her, all you who love her.” The Lord promises prosperity and good things. Jerusalem stands for the Holy City. Heaven awaits all who love the Lord. All the earth cries out to God with joy. Creation sings a hymn of praise to God. Creation speaks the great love God has for us. Paul tells us he never boasts except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to him and he to the world. Paul tells us he bears the marks of Jesus on his body. Whether he had the stigmata or not on his body, I do not know. I do know that he went through terrible tortures in his efforts to share Christ with his people. We cannot read his letters without being amazed at what pains he went through in order to share Christ. It is not hard to imagine the marks of the ship wrecks and scourging he went through in order to proclaim Christ. We know he was left for dead after stoning. Bruises never completely heal. He had a right to boast how much he was like Christ in the crosses of his life. I have to ask myself what I have suffered for Christ.
Study
The invitation of Christ is to take up our crosses and to follow him. Our claim to fame in heaven will be found in the share we have of the tree of glory. The wood of my crosses seems to be more splinters than anything else. I always think of the young person brought to me by the mother because her daughter was upset by the way her friends were taunting her for being Catholic. When I congratulated her for having been able to suffer for Christ, the mother looked at me for a moment like I had lost my mind. Then she realized what I had said. We all have a right to glory in our being like Christ. All the ways that I see I have suffered for him need to be boated about and we need to be glad we are becoming more like Christ. Anyone can follow Christ in the good times. It is in the bad times that the real friends of Christ stand out in the crosses they carried.
Action
We need to make a commitment to redemptive suffering in our lives. We too need to be able to rejoice that we have been worth to suffer for the name. What is the something that is going to cost me time and effort that I can do to make a better world? What is the challenge of God’s love in our lives that he is asking us to put up with by suffering in the name of Christ for our friends? It is too easy to walk around the suffering of others in our world. It is almost as if we need disasters before we are willing to open up our pocketbooks to help others. Actions follow decisions of our hearts. The trip from the head to the heart allows us to do what common sense tells us not to be involved in. We need to follow the God sense our heart teaches us in Christ. Because Christ died for us, we can offer ourselves in his name for a better world for our family and friends. Redemptive suffering is the action we need in our lives to be able to rejoice with Paul that we are Christ’s disciples. The seventy-two disciples who went out in the name of Christ rejoiced in what they could do in the name of Christ. We need us to go out with them to spread the good news that Christ still is in our world.
Friday, July 02, 2010
Being Built Together
July 3, 2010
Feast of Saint Thomas, Apostle
Through him the whole structure is held together and grows into a temple sacred in the Lord; in him you also are being built together into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit. Ephesians 2:21-22
Now a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe." Thomas answered and said to him, "My Lord and my God!" John 20:26-28
Piety
Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.
Study
John’s Gospel is widely agreed to be about the most beautifully and carefully composed among the four evangelists. As we study today’s Good News, this chapter is almost composed as if it was the last chapter set down by John. It is almost a “capstone” used by John in building up his story.
From the outset, we learn that Thomas “was not with them when Jesus came.” So this encounter experience is building Thomas into a more committed Apostle. Take some time to reflect on this encounter by Thomas because what he went through is very much a mirror of what we live daily.
We were not there either. So this story reveals much of what our experience must be like with Jesus. Combined with the first reading, we learn how we, like Thomas and his experience, are being built into “into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.” This can only happen by encountering the Lord through the sacraments directly and through each other indirectly.
Thomas was being built together with the other apostles into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit. He needed to be absent from the first encounter in the upper room. That way, the second appearance could have maximum effect. However, even with this experience, the disciples still did not know what to do in the post-Resurrection world until the third and final encounter with Jesus on the shores of Lake Tiberius.
Through this encounter, Thomas comes to firmly believe that Jesus is both his teacher and his God. As such, the story comes to fulfill by living example the poetic opening of John’s Good News.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came to be through him, and without him nothing came to be. What came to be through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:1-5
The Word (Jesus) we are taught by John early on was God. However, throughout the Gospel, John portrays the journey that many people made in order to come to that conclusion on their own. Today, it is Thomas’ turn. Peter has had his turn. Judas found out the hard way.
However, even with this experience, the Thomas and the rest of the apostles still did not know what to do in the post-Resurrection world until the third and final encounter with Jesus on the shores of Lake Tiberius. There was always hope for them around the corner because they might come to recognize Jesus, know Him and act on his commands.
There is hope for us as well. Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed. The hope for us in this story is contained in the additional beatitude recited by Jesus after Thomas’ exclamation. Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed. Even though the story comes to a close, the experience is never-ending. Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.
Action
Groups of teens and young adults who have spent this week at work camp are on their journey home. We were not with them as they engaged with people in Ohio this week. However, we know because of our shared faith that this love-in-action experience helped build them individually as well as build them as a community.
Please offer your prayers for their safe return so that they can experience this holiday weekend in dependence with their families and other members of their parish community. Then turn your prayers inward and consider what is happening in your life right now that is building you into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit?
Feast of Saint Thomas, Apostle
Through him the whole structure is held together and grows into a temple sacred in the Lord; in him you also are being built together into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit. Ephesians 2:21-22
Now a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe." Thomas answered and said to him, "My Lord and my God!" John 20:26-28
Piety
Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.
Study
John’s Gospel is widely agreed to be about the most beautifully and carefully composed among the four evangelists. As we study today’s Good News, this chapter is almost composed as if it was the last chapter set down by John. It is almost a “capstone” used by John in building up his story.
From the outset, we learn that Thomas “was not with them when Jesus came.” So this encounter experience is building Thomas into a more committed Apostle. Take some time to reflect on this encounter by Thomas because what he went through is very much a mirror of what we live daily.
We were not there either. So this story reveals much of what our experience must be like with Jesus. Combined with the first reading, we learn how we, like Thomas and his experience, are being built into “into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.” This can only happen by encountering the Lord through the sacraments directly and through each other indirectly.
Thomas was being built together with the other apostles into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit. He needed to be absent from the first encounter in the upper room. That way, the second appearance could have maximum effect. However, even with this experience, the disciples still did not know what to do in the post-Resurrection world until the third and final encounter with Jesus on the shores of Lake Tiberius.
Through this encounter, Thomas comes to firmly believe that Jesus is both his teacher and his God. As such, the story comes to fulfill by living example the poetic opening of John’s Good News.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came to be through him, and without him nothing came to be. What came to be through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:1-5
The Word (Jesus) we are taught by John early on was God. However, throughout the Gospel, John portrays the journey that many people made in order to come to that conclusion on their own. Today, it is Thomas’ turn. Peter has had his turn. Judas found out the hard way.
However, even with this experience, the Thomas and the rest of the apostles still did not know what to do in the post-Resurrection world until the third and final encounter with Jesus on the shores of Lake Tiberius. There was always hope for them around the corner because they might come to recognize Jesus, know Him and act on his commands.
There is hope for us as well. Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed. The hope for us in this story is contained in the additional beatitude recited by Jesus after Thomas’ exclamation. Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed. Even though the story comes to a close, the experience is never-ending. Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.
Action
Groups of teens and young adults who have spent this week at work camp are on their journey home. We were not with them as they engaged with people in Ohio this week. However, we know because of our shared faith that this love-in-action experience helped build them individually as well as build them as a community.
Please offer your prayers for their safe return so that they can experience this holiday weekend in dependence with their families and other members of their parish community. Then turn your prayers inward and consider what is happening in your life right now that is building you into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit?
I Did Not Come to Call the Righteous but Sinners
July 2, 2010
Friday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time
By Melanie Rigney
One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. (Matthew 4:4)
As Jesus passed by, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, "Follow me." And he got up and followed him. While he was at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples. The Pharisees saw this and said to his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" He heard this and said, "Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. Go and learn the meaning of the words, I desire mercy, not sacrifice. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners." (Matthew 9:9-13)
Piety
Lord, help me to say yes as Matthew and the others did when You say, “Follow me,” even when where You are going frightens me.
Study
I’ve done a lot of “things” at Mass in the past four and a half years: Greeted folks and ushered. Read the announcements. Lectored. Written and read the prayers of the faithful. Filled in as sacristan. Read the pitch for Commitment Sunday and the Bishop’s Lenten Appeal. When you get right down to it, there’s only one thing I’ve never done at Mass: served as an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion.
One part of me thought it was good to have something I couldn’t do at Mass. Another part of me, the klutzy part, figured it was just as well I wasn’t involved in something that could cause so many problems if I tripped. But the biggest part didn’t feel worthy. Speak Christ’s words, no problem. Try to reflect His goodness in welcoming others, no problem. But present His body and blood to someone else? Too much responsibility.
Earlier this year, I ended up taking the Eucharist to a friend who was undergoing chemotherapy. The intense gravity and belief on her face that day kept coming back to me. And I began to wonder if maybe I am worthy to be an EM after all.
Last weekend, I was talking with a friend. She and her husband are stepping up their service due to a death in the parish, and will be handling EM scheduling for the time being. She asked the same question I’ve been asked by so many other people: “You’re an EM, right?” But instead of laughing it off, this time I told the truth: “I don’t think I’m holy enough to be an EM.” She smiled. “It doesn’t matter how good you are,” she said. “It matters how good Christ is, and letting Him minister through you.”
I thought of the passage from Matthew that is today’s Gospel reading. The conversation was a good reminder that if Christ used only the perfectly righteous among us, it’d take forever to do anything. And so, next time our diocese offers EM training, I’ll put my hand up for consideration, not as a personal sacrifice but for the opportunity to serve as physical reminder of the mercy of the Living Word.
Action
What are you not doing for Christ because you don’t think you’re holy enough? Consider following Him no matter what your opinion of yourself is.
Friday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time
By Melanie Rigney
One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. (Matthew 4:4)
As Jesus passed by, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, "Follow me." And he got up and followed him. While he was at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples. The Pharisees saw this and said to his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" He heard this and said, "Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. Go and learn the meaning of the words, I desire mercy, not sacrifice. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners." (Matthew 9:9-13)
Piety
Lord, help me to say yes as Matthew and the others did when You say, “Follow me,” even when where You are going frightens me.
Study
I’ve done a lot of “things” at Mass in the past four and a half years: Greeted folks and ushered. Read the announcements. Lectored. Written and read the prayers of the faithful. Filled in as sacristan. Read the pitch for Commitment Sunday and the Bishop’s Lenten Appeal. When you get right down to it, there’s only one thing I’ve never done at Mass: served as an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion.
One part of me thought it was good to have something I couldn’t do at Mass. Another part of me, the klutzy part, figured it was just as well I wasn’t involved in something that could cause so many problems if I tripped. But the biggest part didn’t feel worthy. Speak Christ’s words, no problem. Try to reflect His goodness in welcoming others, no problem. But present His body and blood to someone else? Too much responsibility.
Earlier this year, I ended up taking the Eucharist to a friend who was undergoing chemotherapy. The intense gravity and belief on her face that day kept coming back to me. And I began to wonder if maybe I am worthy to be an EM after all.
Last weekend, I was talking with a friend. She and her husband are stepping up their service due to a death in the parish, and will be handling EM scheduling for the time being. She asked the same question I’ve been asked by so many other people: “You’re an EM, right?” But instead of laughing it off, this time I told the truth: “I don’t think I’m holy enough to be an EM.” She smiled. “It doesn’t matter how good you are,” she said. “It matters how good Christ is, and letting Him minister through you.”
I thought of the passage from Matthew that is today’s Gospel reading. The conversation was a good reminder that if Christ used only the perfectly righteous among us, it’d take forever to do anything. And so, next time our diocese offers EM training, I’ll put my hand up for consideration, not as a personal sacrifice but for the opportunity to serve as physical reminder of the mercy of the Living Word.
Action
What are you not doing for Christ because you don’t think you’re holy enough? Consider following Him no matter what your opinion of yourself is.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
That You May Know
July 1, 2010
Thursday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time
"Which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins" -- he then said to the paralytic, "Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home." He rose and went home. Matthew 9:5-7
Piety
Jesus, we pray that you will provide to us the confidence of the caregivers, the faith of the paralytic man, and the awe of the crowd to place all of our trust in you. Protect us from the skepticism of the scribes who question your love when it threatens their status in the community. Amen.
Study
Once again, Matthew presents to us different perspectives on an encounter with Jesus. Which one describes us?
First, do we have the confidence of the crowd who presents to Jesus the case of the paralytic man? These people were most likely friends and family members who were his caregivers – feeding, clothing, bathing and exercising him regularly. Yet, they sought for him a better life. Traditional medicine and exorcism did not help. So, when they heard the stories about this man healing others now walking amidst their town, they had faith that he could heal their friend and family member.
Second, will we react like the paralytic man? He was crippled and ended up lying on his mat maybe for months or years. When he encounters this itinerant preacher from Nazareth, he hears the words and must react. Will he trust in the words of the Lord and obediently rise, pick up his mat and go home?
Third, will we react with the skepticism of the scribes and Pharisees whose power and influence over the people is threatened by Jesus?
Finally, will we be like the others in the crowd who witnessed this act and were awed?
Action
Matthew packs much action and reaction into this one little story. Every day, our lives play out dozens of little stories of our encounters with others and with Christ. Co-workers. Family members. Workers serving us in shops and other commercial transactions. People on the phone. People we meet in person. People at parties and restaurants. How do we react to what is happening in the present moment all around us? What is Christ looking for in our actions and reactions?
Thursday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time
"Which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins" -- he then said to the paralytic, "Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home." He rose and went home. Matthew 9:5-7
Piety
Jesus, we pray that you will provide to us the confidence of the caregivers, the faith of the paralytic man, and the awe of the crowd to place all of our trust in you. Protect us from the skepticism of the scribes who question your love when it threatens their status in the community. Amen.
Study
Once again, Matthew presents to us different perspectives on an encounter with Jesus. Which one describes us?
First, do we have the confidence of the crowd who presents to Jesus the case of the paralytic man? These people were most likely friends and family members who were his caregivers – feeding, clothing, bathing and exercising him regularly. Yet, they sought for him a better life. Traditional medicine and exorcism did not help. So, when they heard the stories about this man healing others now walking amidst their town, they had faith that he could heal their friend and family member.
Second, will we react like the paralytic man? He was crippled and ended up lying on his mat maybe for months or years. When he encounters this itinerant preacher from Nazareth, he hears the words and must react. Will he trust in the words of the Lord and obediently rise, pick up his mat and go home?
Third, will we react with the skepticism of the scribes and Pharisees whose power and influence over the people is threatened by Jesus?
Finally, will we be like the others in the crowd who witnessed this act and were awed?
Action
Matthew packs much action and reaction into this one little story. Every day, our lives play out dozens of little stories of our encounters with others and with Christ. Co-workers. Family members. Workers serving us in shops and other commercial transactions. People on the phone. People we meet in person. People at parties and restaurants. How do we react to what is happening in the present moment all around us? What is Christ looking for in our actions and reactions?
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
What Have You To Do With Us, Son Of God?
June 30, 2010
Wednesday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Seek good and not evil, that you may live; Then truly will the LORD, the God of hosts, be with you as you claim! Hate evil and love good, and let justice prevail at the gate; Then it may be that the LORD, the God of hosts, will have pity on the remnant of Joseph. Amos 5:14-15
"Understand this, you who forget God, lest I attack you with no one to rescue. Those who offer praise as a sacrifice honor me; to the obedient I will show the salvation of God." Psalm 50:22-23
When he came to the other side, to the territory of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs who were coming from the tombs met him. They were so savage that no one could travel by that road. They cried out, "What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the appointed time?" Matthew 8:28-29
Piety
What have you to do with me, Jesus? What must I do to experience your saving grace? Despite my forgetfulness and sin, you never turn away from me like I turn away from you. Restore me to you so that you may always have a place to dwell with me. Amen.
Study
Why do we do what we do? Why do we do evil and spurn goodness? One answer revealed in today’s readings is because we allow the forces of evil to have greater influence on us than we allow the forces of good or of God.
Today’s readings also reintroduce us to an interesting word: demoniac – someone who has been possessed or controlled by a demon. We have many other forms of insanity that also build off of the root “mania” or “maniac.” The influence of evil not only explains the behavior of the two men coming out of the tombs at Gadarenes but it also explains the behavior that the prophet Amos was trying to change more than 700 years earlier.
As the introduction to the Book of Amos in the New American Bible tells us, Amos was “a prophet of divine judgment, and the sovereignty of Yahweh in nature and history dominates his thought. But he was no innovator; his conservatism was in keeping with the whole prophetic tradition calling the people back to the high moral and religious demands of Yahweh's revelation. In common with the other prophets, Amos knew that divine punishment is never completely destructive; it is part of the hidden plan of God to bring salvation to men.” When we allow the forces of good or of God to prevail, then this compassionate nature of God will rise above any of our transgressions.
Even when we are possessed by forces that lead us into a life of sin, God will prevail over these forces. Jesus shows us that today in the first encounter we study when he releases the two men who were possessed and drives the evil spirits into the herd of swine.
However, the people react in a curious fashion. When they heard about the story from witnesses, they rush out of town to meet Jesus. When the rest of the people have the second encounter with Jesus, they do not know what to make of this change in the nature of the former demoniacs. They have come to fear these possessed men.
Instead of welcoming these men back into the community, they reject Jesus and ask him to leave their town and leave them alone. “When they saw him they begged him to leave their district.” They do not want to accept the change which Jesus has caused. Rather, they want to go back to the behaviors to which they had become accustomed. Jesus, the agent of change, is rejected. Jesus should be getting used to rejection by this point. Rejection will become great training for the time when his hour has come.
Action
The core question for all Christianity arises today. “What have you to do with us, Son of God?” For the demoniacs, when they encounter Jesus, they find out that Jesus has arrived to free them from the forces of evil which have gripped their lives. However, the people from the town never ask the same question.
“What have you to do with us, Son of God?” Are your ready to encounter Jesus and ask the question? Are you ready for the answer? Are you ready to live with the way you must when Jesus changes your life? If not, Jesus might just as well pack up and leave Fairfax or Arlington or Alexandria or Manassas like he left Gadarenes.
Amos preaches that despite our actions, God is a healing God: Yes, days are coming, says the LORD, When the plowman shall overtake the reaper, and the vintager, him who sows the seed; The juice of grapes shall drip down the mountains, and all the hills shall run with it. I will bring about the restoration of my people Israel; they shall rebuild and inhabit their ruined cities, Plant vineyards and drink the wine, set out gardens and eat the fruits.
What are you willing to do in exchange for this restoration? Will you accept it like the former demoniacs who become believers or will you reject it like the people from the town?
“What have you to do with us, Son of God?” Is there any more important question in all Christianity? First, we have to recognize that Jesus is the Son of God. But then, we have to accept what this means for our lives.
Wednesday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Seek good and not evil, that you may live; Then truly will the LORD, the God of hosts, be with you as you claim! Hate evil and love good, and let justice prevail at the gate; Then it may be that the LORD, the God of hosts, will have pity on the remnant of Joseph. Amos 5:14-15
"Understand this, you who forget God, lest I attack you with no one to rescue. Those who offer praise as a sacrifice honor me; to the obedient I will show the salvation of God." Psalm 50:22-23
When he came to the other side, to the territory of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs who were coming from the tombs met him. They were so savage that no one could travel by that road. They cried out, "What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the appointed time?" Matthew 8:28-29
Piety
What have you to do with me, Jesus? What must I do to experience your saving grace? Despite my forgetfulness and sin, you never turn away from me like I turn away from you. Restore me to you so that you may always have a place to dwell with me. Amen.
Study
Why do we do what we do? Why do we do evil and spurn goodness? One answer revealed in today’s readings is because we allow the forces of evil to have greater influence on us than we allow the forces of good or of God.
Today’s readings also reintroduce us to an interesting word: demoniac – someone who has been possessed or controlled by a demon. We have many other forms of insanity that also build off of the root “mania” or “maniac.” The influence of evil not only explains the behavior of the two men coming out of the tombs at Gadarenes but it also explains the behavior that the prophet Amos was trying to change more than 700 years earlier.
As the introduction to the Book of Amos in the New American Bible tells us, Amos was “a prophet of divine judgment, and the sovereignty of Yahweh in nature and history dominates his thought. But he was no innovator; his conservatism was in keeping with the whole prophetic tradition calling the people back to the high moral and religious demands of Yahweh's revelation. In common with the other prophets, Amos knew that divine punishment is never completely destructive; it is part of the hidden plan of God to bring salvation to men.” When we allow the forces of good or of God to prevail, then this compassionate nature of God will rise above any of our transgressions.
Even when we are possessed by forces that lead us into a life of sin, God will prevail over these forces. Jesus shows us that today in the first encounter we study when he releases the two men who were possessed and drives the evil spirits into the herd of swine.
However, the people react in a curious fashion. When they heard about the story from witnesses, they rush out of town to meet Jesus. When the rest of the people have the second encounter with Jesus, they do not know what to make of this change in the nature of the former demoniacs. They have come to fear these possessed men.
Instead of welcoming these men back into the community, they reject Jesus and ask him to leave their town and leave them alone. “When they saw him they begged him to leave their district.” They do not want to accept the change which Jesus has caused. Rather, they want to go back to the behaviors to which they had become accustomed. Jesus, the agent of change, is rejected. Jesus should be getting used to rejection by this point. Rejection will become great training for the time when his hour has come.
Action
The core question for all Christianity arises today. “What have you to do with us, Son of God?” For the demoniacs, when they encounter Jesus, they find out that Jesus has arrived to free them from the forces of evil which have gripped their lives. However, the people from the town never ask the same question.
“What have you to do with us, Son of God?” Are your ready to encounter Jesus and ask the question? Are you ready for the answer? Are you ready to live with the way you must when Jesus changes your life? If not, Jesus might just as well pack up and leave Fairfax or Arlington or Alexandria or Manassas like he left Gadarenes.
Amos preaches that despite our actions, God is a healing God: Yes, days are coming, says the LORD, When the plowman shall overtake the reaper, and the vintager, him who sows the seed; The juice of grapes shall drip down the mountains, and all the hills shall run with it. I will bring about the restoration of my people Israel; they shall rebuild and inhabit their ruined cities, Plant vineyards and drink the wine, set out gardens and eat the fruits.
What are you willing to do in exchange for this restoration? Will you accept it like the former demoniacs who become believers or will you reject it like the people from the town?
“What have you to do with us, Son of God?” Is there any more important question in all Christianity? First, we have to recognize that Jesus is the Son of God. But then, we have to accept what this means for our lives.
Who Do You Say I Am?
June 29 2010
Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles
By Beth DeCristofaro
The Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the proclamation might be completed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. (2 Timothy 4:17)
He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. (Matthew 16:15-17)
Piety
Another morning and I wake with thirst for the goodness I do not have. I walk out to the pond and all the way God has given us such beautiful lessons. Oh Lord, I was never a quick scholar but sulked and hunched over my books past the hour and the bell; grant me, in your mercy, a little more time. Love for the earth and love for you are having such a long conversation in my heart. Who knows what will finally happen or where I will be sent, yet already I have given a great many things away, expecting to be told to pack nothing, except the prayer which, with this thirst, I am slowly learning.
(“Thirst” by Mary Oliver)
Study
“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God,” says Peter. Jesus revealed that God gave Peter the insight to recognize him. God moved this man in unlooked for ways and he recognized the living Grace before him. Later, of course, Peter denied that he knew Jesus, thereby denying God.
Sometimes I wonder how to recognize God. What should I do or which path should I choose? How do I know God’s desire for me? “God,” I pray, “can you write down what you’d like me to do in this notebook at the side of my bed?” Sometimes I feel that if I choose the wrong thing then I will lose out or thwart God’s will which would then be a denial much like Peter’s.
I think Peter’s example shows me that choosing an unqualified right way is less important than to be open to God’s revealing mercy and love. God’s grace is given and within me, within us. Before we reach for God, God reaches for us. There are many paths to take and they can all lead to God if my deepest desire is for God. Peter messed up pretty badly even after Jesus had recognized and named him but still became the Rock of God’s community on earth. God’s mercy, love, forgiveness and wisdom is revealed in the many chapters of Peter’s life.
Action
Piety, study, action are invaluable tools for me to know God. What is going on within? Is it my self-will propelling me or through study, piety and action can I be in touch with God’s mercy and movement each and every day? I don’t have to necessarily do it “right”. Jesus just wants me to accept that by saying “yes” to him in the deepest places of my heart. God will then take me the rest of the way.
When did I deny Christ? Did I turn back with sorrow and remorse and accept God’s mercy? God wants to break the chains that keep us from God and rescue us from the lion’s mouth of our own self-will.
Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles
By Beth DeCristofaro
The Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the proclamation might be completed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. (2 Timothy 4:17)
He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. (Matthew 16:15-17)
Piety
Another morning and I wake with thirst for the goodness I do not have. I walk out to the pond and all the way God has given us such beautiful lessons. Oh Lord, I was never a quick scholar but sulked and hunched over my books past the hour and the bell; grant me, in your mercy, a little more time. Love for the earth and love for you are having such a long conversation in my heart. Who knows what will finally happen or where I will be sent, yet already I have given a great many things away, expecting to be told to pack nothing, except the prayer which, with this thirst, I am slowly learning.
(“Thirst” by Mary Oliver)
Study
“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God,” says Peter. Jesus revealed that God gave Peter the insight to recognize him. God moved this man in unlooked for ways and he recognized the living Grace before him. Later, of course, Peter denied that he knew Jesus, thereby denying God.
Sometimes I wonder how to recognize God. What should I do or which path should I choose? How do I know God’s desire for me? “God,” I pray, “can you write down what you’d like me to do in this notebook at the side of my bed?” Sometimes I feel that if I choose the wrong thing then I will lose out or thwart God’s will which would then be a denial much like Peter’s.
I think Peter’s example shows me that choosing an unqualified right way is less important than to be open to God’s revealing mercy and love. God’s grace is given and within me, within us. Before we reach for God, God reaches for us. There are many paths to take and they can all lead to God if my deepest desire is for God. Peter messed up pretty badly even after Jesus had recognized and named him but still became the Rock of God’s community on earth. God’s mercy, love, forgiveness and wisdom is revealed in the many chapters of Peter’s life.
Action
Piety, study, action are invaluable tools for me to know God. What is going on within? Is it my self-will propelling me or through study, piety and action can I be in touch with God’s mercy and movement each and every day? I don’t have to necessarily do it “right”. Jesus just wants me to accept that by saying “yes” to him in the deepest places of my heart. God will then take me the rest of the way.
When did I deny Christ? Did I turn back with sorrow and remorse and accept God’s mercy? God wants to break the chains that keep us from God and rescue us from the lion’s mouth of our own self-will.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
I Will Not Revoke My Word
June 28, 2010
Memorial of Saint Irenaeus, bishop and martyr
Thus says the LORD: For three crimes of Israel, and for four, I will not revoke my word; Because they sell the just man for silver, and the poor man for a pair of sandals. They trample the heads of the weak into the dust of the earth, and force the lowly out of the way. Son and father go to the same prostitute, profaning my holy name. Amos 2:6-7
A scribe approached and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus answered him, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.” Another of (his) disciples said to him, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.” But Jesus answered him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their dead.” Matthew 8:19-22
Piety
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWddmjGFl-o&feature=related (English)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APKvYvGPEmU&feature=related (Spanish)
Lord, When You Came To The Seashore / Pescador Des Hombres
by Cesareo Gabarain
Lord, when you came to the seashore you weren't seeking the wise or the wealthy, but only asking that I might follow.
REFRAIN (English): O Lord, in my eyes you were gazing, Kindly smiling, my name you were saying; All I treasured, I have left on the sand there; Close to you, I will find other seas.
Lord, you knew what my boat carried: neither money nor weapons for fighting, but nets for fishing my daily labor. (REFRAIN)
Lord, have you need of my labor, hands for service, a heart made for loving, my arms for lifting the poor and broken? (REFRAIN)
Lord, send me where you would have me, to a village, or heart of the city; I will remember that you are with me. (REFRAIN)
Study
We are hearing some pretty harsh words from Jesus….words which would keep people from even carrying out what we have traditionally known as the spiritual works of mercy like burying the dead. Reading passages like this one makes me wonder if Jesus really means what he says or is he just being emphatic to make a point.
As much as I want to wish he was just taking a flair for the dramatic, the more you compare what Jesus did in his life to what we do in our life, it is hard to conclude he is just making a point.
Matthew 8 is a wake-up call. Follow me. If you don’t believe what Jesus says, believe in this message because of what he does. Follow me. As much as he might wish for the cup of crucifixion to pass him by, Jesus accepts the cup. He does not get a chance to say good-bye to his mother until he is hanging from a tree by three nails.
Jesus chose to accept his accusations no matter how harsh and unjust with silence. He put on the crown of thorns, the purple robe. He stood by for his scourging with a whip and then in an already weakened state, took up his cross and carried it up the hill until he was nailed to it.
The Cursillo movement has a tendency to stress leadership. Maybe the only leader in Cursillo is the one we are asked to follow. Maybe we should rename that Saturday talk “Followers.” Maybe the School of Leaders should be renamed the School of Followers. The God of the Hebrew Bible etched a covenant in stone, a covenant that said “Walk with me.” No matter what you do, I will not revoke my invitation. Jesus turned up that covenant a notch or three with his actions and his command, “Follow me.”
Action
What are you doing to “Follow” this week? Remember in your prayers those high school and college students and their chaperones who are on or are preparing to go on a work camp experience at their parish or diocesan level. They have answered the call to go where the Lord and his children need.
While their friends are content to earn money in a summer job or soak up the sun at poolside, they have given up a week or more to travel in cramped cars and vans to a strange area of the state, country, or world to answer the call to arms – because the Lord asked and has need of their labor, their hands for service, their hearts for loving, their arms for lifting the poor and broken. Pray for them this week and the people that they are helping.
Memorial of Saint Irenaeus, bishop and martyr
Thus says the LORD: For three crimes of Israel, and for four, I will not revoke my word; Because they sell the just man for silver, and the poor man for a pair of sandals. They trample the heads of the weak into the dust of the earth, and force the lowly out of the way. Son and father go to the same prostitute, profaning my holy name. Amos 2:6-7
A scribe approached and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus answered him, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.” Another of (his) disciples said to him, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.” But Jesus answered him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their dead.” Matthew 8:19-22
Piety
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWddmjGFl-o&feature=related (English)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APKvYvGPEmU&feature=related (Spanish)
Lord, When You Came To The Seashore / Pescador Des Hombres
by Cesareo Gabarain
Lord, when you came to the seashore you weren't seeking the wise or the wealthy, but only asking that I might follow.
REFRAIN (English): O Lord, in my eyes you were gazing, Kindly smiling, my name you were saying; All I treasured, I have left on the sand there; Close to you, I will find other seas.
Lord, you knew what my boat carried: neither money nor weapons for fighting, but nets for fishing my daily labor. (REFRAIN)
Lord, have you need of my labor, hands for service, a heart made for loving, my arms for lifting the poor and broken? (REFRAIN)
Lord, send me where you would have me, to a village, or heart of the city; I will remember that you are with me. (REFRAIN)
Study
We are hearing some pretty harsh words from Jesus….words which would keep people from even carrying out what we have traditionally known as the spiritual works of mercy like burying the dead. Reading passages like this one makes me wonder if Jesus really means what he says or is he just being emphatic to make a point.
As much as I want to wish he was just taking a flair for the dramatic, the more you compare what Jesus did in his life to what we do in our life, it is hard to conclude he is just making a point.
Matthew 8 is a wake-up call. Follow me. If you don’t believe what Jesus says, believe in this message because of what he does. Follow me. As much as he might wish for the cup of crucifixion to pass him by, Jesus accepts the cup. He does not get a chance to say good-bye to his mother until he is hanging from a tree by three nails.
Jesus chose to accept his accusations no matter how harsh and unjust with silence. He put on the crown of thorns, the purple robe. He stood by for his scourging with a whip and then in an already weakened state, took up his cross and carried it up the hill until he was nailed to it.
The Cursillo movement has a tendency to stress leadership. Maybe the only leader in Cursillo is the one we are asked to follow. Maybe we should rename that Saturday talk “Followers.” Maybe the School of Leaders should be renamed the School of Followers. The God of the Hebrew Bible etched a covenant in stone, a covenant that said “Walk with me.” No matter what you do, I will not revoke my invitation. Jesus turned up that covenant a notch or three with his actions and his command, “Follow me.”
Action
What are you doing to “Follow” this week? Remember in your prayers those high school and college students and their chaperones who are on or are preparing to go on a work camp experience at their parish or diocesan level. They have answered the call to go where the Lord and his children need.
While their friends are content to earn money in a summer job or soak up the sun at poolside, they have given up a week or more to travel in cramped cars and vans to a strange area of the state, country, or world to answer the call to arms – because the Lord asked and has need of their labor, their hands for service, their hearts for loving, their arms for lifting the poor and broken. Pray for them this week and the people that they are helping.
Go and Proclaim the Kingdom
June 27, 2010
Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
By Rev. Joe McCloskey, SJ
Elijah set out, and came upon Elisha, son of Shaphat, as he was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen; he was following the twelfth. Elijah went over to him and threw his cloak over him. Elisha left the oxen, ran after Elijah, and said, "Please, let me kiss my father and mother good-bye, and I will follow you." "Go back!" Elijah answered. “Have I done anything to you?” Elisha left him and, taking the yoke of oxen, slaughtered them; he used the plowing equipment for fuel to boil their flesh, and gave it to his people to eat. Then he left and followed Elijah as his attendant. 1 Kings 19:19-21
For you were called for freedom, brothers. But do not use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh; rather, serve one another through love. For the whole law is fulfilled in one statement, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:13-14
"I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home." (To him) Jesus said, "No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God." Luke 9:61-62
Piety
The more things we have, the less freedom we have. Protecting our freedom is difficult in our world that preaches the gospel of neediness. There is the call of Christ that is in our hearts. We have been given by the resurrection of Christ the ultimate reason to do good and to avoid evil. There is no shortcut to following Christ. The world created through Christ and for Christ is a wonderful place to live in when we are unencumbered with possessions. The law of God is fulfilled by our loving our neighbor as our self. The second commandment is what selfless love is all about. When we live by the Spirit, we are not under the law. The Spirit sets us free to follow Christ. When we burn our bridges, there is no going back. The desire to follow Christ to Jerusalem is the call of Christ. The call claims our heart by all the ways we come to know Christ.
Study
We study how to follow Christ. The desire to follow Christ is born in our freedom. The desire to be close to Christ belongs to our creation. We are created in the image and the likeness of God in Christ. If I am willing to get close to him, the realization of true happiness draws me on to even a closer relationship. The promises of the Sacred Heart are what we need to hold Christ to live up to. If we honor the love of Christ, the tepid become fervent. The fervent become more fervent. Christ promises to raise us up to great sanctity if we live his love for one another. We are called by Christ’s love for us to freedom. Love generates a response. Love calls us to an ever closer relationship. Christ comes to us in our prayer. He confirms us in our gifts so that we truly have something to give to those we love. Because we are created in the image and the likeness of Christ, we study each other to discover the truth of Christ in our lives.
Action
Elijah anointed Elisha to succeed him. Each of us needs to have Christ’s friends in our lives. We anoint each other to closer relationships to Christ by sharing our love of Christ with those companions of life that we hold dear. Wherever there is love, God is there. Our freedom is seen in our dedication to God in our daily life. True freedom is the doing of things in the way of Christ. Our lives with the saints bring us down the road of Christ made real in our times and days. How Christ appeals to us is in our freedom. True Freedom is found in closeness to Christ. His road to the Cross is paved with his love of all of us. Our willingness to suffer for a better world is how we go with Christ to Jerusalem. Our fitness for the Kingdom of God is seen in how we look forward to what is coming in Christ for us. The Take and Receive prayer of St. Ignatius says I all: Take and receive, O Lord, my liberty, My mind and my will I return to you. Your Grace and your love is enough for me.
Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
By Rev. Joe McCloskey, SJ
Elijah set out, and came upon Elisha, son of Shaphat, as he was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen; he was following the twelfth. Elijah went over to him and threw his cloak over him. Elisha left the oxen, ran after Elijah, and said, "Please, let me kiss my father and mother good-bye, and I will follow you." "Go back!" Elijah answered. “Have I done anything to you?” Elisha left him and, taking the yoke of oxen, slaughtered them; he used the plowing equipment for fuel to boil their flesh, and gave it to his people to eat. Then he left and followed Elijah as his attendant. 1 Kings 19:19-21
For you were called for freedom, brothers. But do not use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh; rather, serve one another through love. For the whole law is fulfilled in one statement, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:13-14
"I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home." (To him) Jesus said, "No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God." Luke 9:61-62
Piety
The more things we have, the less freedom we have. Protecting our freedom is difficult in our world that preaches the gospel of neediness. There is the call of Christ that is in our hearts. We have been given by the resurrection of Christ the ultimate reason to do good and to avoid evil. There is no shortcut to following Christ. The world created through Christ and for Christ is a wonderful place to live in when we are unencumbered with possessions. The law of God is fulfilled by our loving our neighbor as our self. The second commandment is what selfless love is all about. When we live by the Spirit, we are not under the law. The Spirit sets us free to follow Christ. When we burn our bridges, there is no going back. The desire to follow Christ to Jerusalem is the call of Christ. The call claims our heart by all the ways we come to know Christ.
Study
We study how to follow Christ. The desire to follow Christ is born in our freedom. The desire to be close to Christ belongs to our creation. We are created in the image and the likeness of God in Christ. If I am willing to get close to him, the realization of true happiness draws me on to even a closer relationship. The promises of the Sacred Heart are what we need to hold Christ to live up to. If we honor the love of Christ, the tepid become fervent. The fervent become more fervent. Christ promises to raise us up to great sanctity if we live his love for one another. We are called by Christ’s love for us to freedom. Love generates a response. Love calls us to an ever closer relationship. Christ comes to us in our prayer. He confirms us in our gifts so that we truly have something to give to those we love. Because we are created in the image and the likeness of Christ, we study each other to discover the truth of Christ in our lives.
Action
Elijah anointed Elisha to succeed him. Each of us needs to have Christ’s friends in our lives. We anoint each other to closer relationships to Christ by sharing our love of Christ with those companions of life that we hold dear. Wherever there is love, God is there. Our freedom is seen in our dedication to God in our daily life. True freedom is the doing of things in the way of Christ. Our lives with the saints bring us down the road of Christ made real in our times and days. How Christ appeals to us is in our freedom. True Freedom is found in closeness to Christ. His road to the Cross is paved with his love of all of us. Our willingness to suffer for a better world is how we go with Christ to Jerusalem. Our fitness for the Kingdom of God is seen in how we look forward to what is coming in Christ for us. The Take and Receive prayer of St. Ignatius says I all: Take and receive, O Lord, my liberty, My mind and my will I return to you. Your Grace and your love is enough for me.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Say the Word
June 26, 2010
Saturday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time
Cry out to the Lord; moan, O daughter Zion! Let your tears flow like a torrent day and night; Let there be no respite for you, no repose for your eyes. Rise up, shrill in the night, at the beginning of every watch; Pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord; Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your little ones (Who faint from hunger at the corner of every street). Lamentations 2:18-19
“Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.” Matthew 8:8
Piety
Lord, I am not worthy to receive you. Only say the word and I shall be healed.
Study
Our first reading provides a rhetorical question answered in today’s Gospel. “For great as the sea is your downfall; who can heal you?” Lamentations 2:13b
The answer, of course, is the Lord. However, this may not be the most important lesson of the day. Reading the Gospel, we also are confronted with the question of power. The centurion commands legions of soldiers. With a few words, he commands these men to follow his orders. However, no amount of “position power” can help the centurion save his servant.
The weakness of his power and words is placed in stark contrast to the strength exhibited in the power and words of Jesus. Jesus does not even have to be in the room with the servant who is ill. The servant is cured from miles away at the very moment that Jesus commanded it to be so.
Recognizing the limits of any position power is driven home by the humility of the centurion. “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.” (Matthew 8:8) We encounter the humility of a servant leader again when Jesus faces his trial and execution. Even though we know he has the natural power to control his situation, he surrenders to the power of others in order to ascend over his humanity and back to his divinity.
Action
What are the limits of our faith? How far will we go to follow Jesus? Can we set aside our personal agendas in order to exercise the faith He seeks in us? Jesus never rescinds his invitation to us. Are we ready to accept it?
If we answer yes to that question, the example we have to be ready to follow is that of Peter's mother-in-law. After she accepted the healing power of Jesus, she in turn accepted her responsibility to serve the Lord and the children of God.
Saturday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time
Cry out to the Lord; moan, O daughter Zion! Let your tears flow like a torrent day and night; Let there be no respite for you, no repose for your eyes. Rise up, shrill in the night, at the beginning of every watch; Pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord; Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your little ones (Who faint from hunger at the corner of every street). Lamentations 2:18-19
“Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.” Matthew 8:8
Piety
Lord, I am not worthy to receive you. Only say the word and I shall be healed.
Study
Our first reading provides a rhetorical question answered in today’s Gospel. “For great as the sea is your downfall; who can heal you?” Lamentations 2:13b
The answer, of course, is the Lord. However, this may not be the most important lesson of the day. Reading the Gospel, we also are confronted with the question of power. The centurion commands legions of soldiers. With a few words, he commands these men to follow his orders. However, no amount of “position power” can help the centurion save his servant.
The weakness of his power and words is placed in stark contrast to the strength exhibited in the power and words of Jesus. Jesus does not even have to be in the room with the servant who is ill. The servant is cured from miles away at the very moment that Jesus commanded it to be so.
Recognizing the limits of any position power is driven home by the humility of the centurion. “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.” (Matthew 8:8) We encounter the humility of a servant leader again when Jesus faces his trial and execution. Even though we know he has the natural power to control his situation, he surrenders to the power of others in order to ascend over his humanity and back to his divinity.
Action
What are the limits of our faith? How far will we go to follow Jesus? Can we set aside our personal agendas in order to exercise the faith He seeks in us? Jesus never rescinds his invitation to us. Are we ready to accept it?
If we answer yes to that question, the example we have to be ready to follow is that of Peter's mother-in-law. After she accepted the healing power of Jesus, she in turn accepted her responsibility to serve the Lord and the children of God.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
How Could We Sing a Song of the Lord in a Foreign Land?
June 25, 2010
Friday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time
By Melanie Rigney
On the seventh day of the fifth month (this was in the nineteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon), Nebuzaradan, captain of the bodyguard, came to Jerusalem as the representative of the king of Babylon. He burned the house of the LORD, the palace of the king, and all the houses of Jerusalem; every large building was destroyed by fire. Then the Chaldean troops who were with the captain of the guard tore down the walls that surrounded Jerusalem. Then Nebuzaradan, captain of the guard, led into exile the last of the people remaining in the city, and those who had deserted to the king of Babylon, and the last of the artisans. But some of the country’s poor, Nebuzaradan, captain of the guard, left behind as vinedressers and farmers. (2 Kings 25:8-12)
By the rivers of Babylon we sat mourning and weeping when we remembered Zion. On the poplars of that land we hung up our harps. There our captors asked us for the words of a song; Our tormentors, for a joyful song: "Sing for us a song of Zion!" But how could we sing a song of the LORD in a foreign land? (Psalms 137:1-4)
When Jesus came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. And then a leper approached, did him homage, and said, “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.” He stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, “I will do it. Be made clean.” His leprosy was cleansed immediately. (Matthew 8:1-3)
Piety
Lord, help me to always sing Your song, even when I believe You have deserted me.
Study
There the Israelites were in Babylon, mourning the loss of their city and homes and belongings as outlined in today’s first reading. And their conquerors ask for a song of Zion. Perhaps the Babylonians saw this as torture; perhaps they didn’t understand the meaning behind the songs they called joyful. Whether the insult was intended or not, imagine the anger and resentment they felt.
While we may not be exiled physically, as Christians we may find ourselves feeling that way at work or in some social settings. It’s easy to sing the Lord’s song when we’re in community or in other Christ-friendly environments. It can be far harder to talk about what faith means to us—our belief in the Resurrection and the life thereafter, our confidence in a loving God and His call to love others—when someone we view as a tormentor rather than a brother or sister in Christ pushes our buttons. Maybe it’s when someone asks on Ash Wednesday, “Are you Catholic or something?” Or during Holy Week, when someone quirks an eyebrow and says, “So you really believe he came back from the dead?” Or when the latest in the seemingly unending barrage of new pedophilic crimes by the ordained is in the news and someone asks, “How can you be part of that Church?”
Christ doesn’t call us to sit around and weep and lick our wounds and mope when we face a challenge. He calls to stand up for ourselves—and for Him—in a loving, not confrontational manner. We can face our tormentors because He is beside us, always.
Action
Give someone who challenges your faith the benefit of the doubt. Behind the attitude may be the beginnings of belief.
Friday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time
By Melanie Rigney
On the seventh day of the fifth month (this was in the nineteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon), Nebuzaradan, captain of the bodyguard, came to Jerusalem as the representative of the king of Babylon. He burned the house of the LORD, the palace of the king, and all the houses of Jerusalem; every large building was destroyed by fire. Then the Chaldean troops who were with the captain of the guard tore down the walls that surrounded Jerusalem. Then Nebuzaradan, captain of the guard, led into exile the last of the people remaining in the city, and those who had deserted to the king of Babylon, and the last of the artisans. But some of the country’s poor, Nebuzaradan, captain of the guard, left behind as vinedressers and farmers. (2 Kings 25:8-12)
By the rivers of Babylon we sat mourning and weeping when we remembered Zion. On the poplars of that land we hung up our harps. There our captors asked us for the words of a song; Our tormentors, for a joyful song: "Sing for us a song of Zion!" But how could we sing a song of the LORD in a foreign land? (Psalms 137:1-4)
When Jesus came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. And then a leper approached, did him homage, and said, “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.” He stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, “I will do it. Be made clean.” His leprosy was cleansed immediately. (Matthew 8:1-3)
Piety
Lord, help me to always sing Your song, even when I believe You have deserted me.
Study
There the Israelites were in Babylon, mourning the loss of their city and homes and belongings as outlined in today’s first reading. And their conquerors ask for a song of Zion. Perhaps the Babylonians saw this as torture; perhaps they didn’t understand the meaning behind the songs they called joyful. Whether the insult was intended or not, imagine the anger and resentment they felt.
While we may not be exiled physically, as Christians we may find ourselves feeling that way at work or in some social settings. It’s easy to sing the Lord’s song when we’re in community or in other Christ-friendly environments. It can be far harder to talk about what faith means to us—our belief in the Resurrection and the life thereafter, our confidence in a loving God and His call to love others—when someone we view as a tormentor rather than a brother or sister in Christ pushes our buttons. Maybe it’s when someone asks on Ash Wednesday, “Are you Catholic or something?” Or during Holy Week, when someone quirks an eyebrow and says, “So you really believe he came back from the dead?” Or when the latest in the seemingly unending barrage of new pedophilic crimes by the ordained is in the news and someone asks, “How can you be part of that Church?”
Christ doesn’t call us to sit around and weep and lick our wounds and mope when we face a challenge. He calls to stand up for ourselves—and for Him—in a loving, not confrontational manner. We can face our tormentors because He is beside us, always.
Action
Give someone who challenges your faith the benefit of the doubt. Behind the attitude may be the beginnings of belief.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)