Wait

Wait

September 17, 2012

Monday of the Twenty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. 1 Corinthians 11:33

"Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof.  Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed.  Luke 7:6-7

Piety

Father, we have such a hard time "waiting."  The disciples could not wait while Jesus prayed in the garden. They, instead, gave in to the sleep they craved after a busy day.  We also have a hard time waiting.  Just watch the door to our churches after Communion.  We are so anxious to get on the "what's next," that we fail to relish being in your presence for a few more minutes.  Holy Spirit, grant us the gifts of patience and humility that we may better serve the Lord and each other.  Amen.

Study

A few days ago, we contemplated what unites us in the various communities in which we participate.  Whether at home, school, work, or leisure, we gather with friends in common bonds to share experiences, food, and support.

Today, we can see how those common unions can disintegrate into division.  But wait!  St. Paul tells the Corinthians that we should wait for each other.  We should wait on each other.  We should serve each other with the humility of the Roman centurion.

If there was a class of people whom Jesus could have some justification for excluding, the Roman army might have been right up there at the top of that list.  They were a belligerent occupying force.  They regularly persecuted and tortured the Jews.  Yet, when a request came to the Lord from a centurion, Jesus set out for the man's house.  In fact, he set out on that journey faster than he will respond to the news that his friend Lazarus is sick. 

Action

For all that unites us, we still know that there are many things that divide us.  Management and Labor.  Friend and Foe.  Ally and Enemy.  Eagles and Ravens.  Nats and Braves. Cavaliers and Terrapins.

As protests around the Middle East continue against the US, it is easy to focus on what divides us from each other and from the world.  Jesus would have us react differently. 

Wait.  Pause before casting judgment.  

Wait.  Delay starting any endeavor until others join in.

Wait.  Serve others before reaping the benefits for yourself.

Wait.  Be available and ready to serve others expectantly.