A Permanent Possession

A Permanent Possession

March 21, 2013

Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent

 

I will give to you and to your descendants after you the land in which you are now staying, the whole land of Canaan, as a permanent possession; and I will be their God.”  God also said to Abraham: “On your part, you and your descendants after you must keep my covenant throughout the ages.”  Genesis 17:8-9

Jesus said to the Jews: “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever keeps my word will never see death.”  So the Jews said to him, “Now we are sure that you are possessed.  John 8:51-52a

Piety

Father, as you keep your covenant with us forever, gift us the justice, wisdom courage and moderation to give to you our never-ending love and reliance in return.  Amen.

Study

If our Study ends with the literal question, "What does Sacred Scripture say?" then our Study will be as flawed as the Jews were when they heard what Jesus had to say in the temple today.  We must extend our contemplation of the Word with two more questions" "What does it mean?"  "What does it matter?"

Earlier this week, we encountered what might happen if people did not pay attention to the truth.  The deception portrayed in the story of Susanna almost cost her dearly.  Instead, it cost the lying men their heads.

Today, we can contemplate what happens when the Lord keeps his covenant with us through the ages.  Unfortunately, the Jews stop listening at the literal interpretation.  Thus, they miss out on the fullness of the message of love and sacrifice. 

Action

Plan now to join the Franciscan Mission Service in its World Care benefit dinner, April 5 and the Monastery in Washington, DC.

The keynote is "Keeping the Door of Faith Open: Remaining in the Catholic Church Today," by Washington Post's Melinda Henneberger. During the evening, FMS also will present Sr. Pat Farrell, OSF and former president of the LCWR with the 8th Annual Anselm Moons Award.  

Enjoy wine, small plates, dessert, live music, a silent auction and a photo booth while supporting Franciscan Mission Service at its biggest fundraiser of the year.

The event is Friday, April 5 at 7 p.m. at the beautiful St. Francis Hall in northeast Washington, D.C. (1340 Quincy Street, NE).  Purchase your tickets online now.