I am usually on to do the First Saturday Mass as part of the Helpers' of God's Precious Infants Mass at Holy Name Church in Cincinnati's Mount Auburn neighborhood. Just down the street from Murder, Inc. (Planned (un)Parenthood), I say Mass then hear confessions while the faithful process down to the abortuary to pray the Rosary for an end to abortion and a greater respect for life.
During today's readings, a thought came to me...
The first reading from St. James reflects the power of prayer, and that call to pray always. Citing the power of Elijah's prayer, James calls us all to that prayer of the righteous which God almost seems powerless to resist. (because hearts are so in tune with what He is already doing...) Intercessory prayer is something that I think so many find easy to pray, because we have come to have a natural disposition towards the other which allows us the freedom to lift that other person up, etc.
With this concept of intercessory prayer, we turn to the Gospel passage of Jesus drawing children to himself and lifting up that simplicity of childlike prayer as an example for us all to follow.
(remember, this is a Mass specifically for the Pro-Life movement...)
It struck me that Our Lord always calls the marginalized and shunned closest to himself. In His public ministry, he sought out those who were otherwise lost and who desired to come to know Him better. Is there anyone more shunned and dismissed by society today than the children who do not even get the chance to take a breath? Whose lives are snuffed out before they are even given the chance?
Certainly, in His love, Our Lord draws them to Himself.
Combining the two passages, then, would it not stand to reason that this unfortunately all too large of a group of children is now interceding before God's throne in heaven to stop the scourge of abortion and to change the hearts of those who are in the abortion industry? Is this a possible reason we have seen so many conversions over the last few years?
We must keep in mind that this is a spiritual battle, and the army of prayer on our side is growing and getting stronger.
Showing posts with label Daily Reflection. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Daily Reflection. Show all posts
Saturday, March 1, 2014
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Not a good day to look at the readings...
It seems both St. James and Our Lord are having rough days today.
But, as we prep for Lent, these are both good wake up calls to the need for ongoing conversion of heart.
The rich become comfortable and rest on their laurels while the needy languish around them. St. James is highlighting what happens when faith is not continually put in to action, as he has called forth throughout his letter. It will slowly die on the vine and then when called upon... nothing.
Our Lord makes a similar challenge, especially to those who lead others, particularly in ministry. "Whoever causes one of these little ones to sin..."
This is the technical definition of scandal and why scandal is such a pervasive thing within the faith community. It leads others to lose hope, to stop striving for greatness, to utter those most disheartening of words, 'well, if he's doing it, I can as well...'
As we enter Lent next week, a particular focus for the early stages might be to find those hidden areas of life that keep us from the greatness and holiness to which Christ calls us all.
But, as we prep for Lent, these are both good wake up calls to the need for ongoing conversion of heart.
The rich become comfortable and rest on their laurels while the needy languish around them. St. James is highlighting what happens when faith is not continually put in to action, as he has called forth throughout his letter. It will slowly die on the vine and then when called upon... nothing.
Our Lord makes a similar challenge, especially to those who lead others, particularly in ministry. "Whoever causes one of these little ones to sin..."
This is the technical definition of scandal and why scandal is such a pervasive thing within the faith community. It leads others to lose hope, to stop striving for greatness, to utter those most disheartening of words, 'well, if he's doing it, I can as well...'
As we enter Lent next week, a particular focus for the early stages might be to find those hidden areas of life that keep us from the greatness and holiness to which Christ calls us all.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
The Chair of St. Peter
Today we celebrate in the Church the Feast of the Chair of St. Peter. (Yeah, one of those 'you Catholics worship anything!' days)
Why?
First, it is a sign of authority and teaching. Think to the passage in the Gospel of the Unjust Judge. He sits on his judgement chair at the gates to the city. So to sit in judgement is a sign of that authority which the one who sits possesses.
It is also a sign of unity. For the community gathers around the one presides over them, listening and learning.
Therefore, we see that Peter's Chair is a sign of the authority that is contained within the one who sits upon it. But also the sign of unity throughout the Church. And those keys which have been given to Peter have been passed down through the ages to Francis today.
Why?
First, it is a sign of authority and teaching. Think to the passage in the Gospel of the Unjust Judge. He sits on his judgement chair at the gates to the city. So to sit in judgement is a sign of that authority which the one who sits possesses.
It is also a sign of unity. For the community gathers around the one presides over them, listening and learning.
Therefore, we see that Peter's Chair is a sign of the authority that is contained within the one who sits upon it. But also the sign of unity throughout the Church. And those keys which have been given to Peter have been passed down through the ages to Francis today.
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Doers, not just hearers, of the Word
Today we are starting to get to the reason as far as why Martin Luther called the Letter of St. James the Epistle of Straw.
"Be doers of the Word and not just hearers only, deluding yourself."
For St. James, to hear the Word of God, to encounter Him in the kerygma, the proclamation, to know and love Him; all demands a response in kind. We cannot simply sit idly by as the world goes on, our faith must drive us forward. (I think of St. Paul: 'Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel!')
Our faith cannot stop at the doors of the Church, but must impel us forward in love of Christ and therefore in love for our brothers and sisters in Christ, whomever that is!
We also get a sense in the Gospel passage of something that is particularly Markan in scope: the Messianic Secret. How often over the last few weeks as we have journeyed with Jesus in Mark's account of the Gospel, we see how Jesus sends away those whom He has cured with strange instruction, such as today's 'Go straight home, do not go into the village.'
For St. Mark, there is an importance in having that one on one encounter with Christ and being changed by that encounter. Our witness to others might help that, but it is not an encounter with me that changes lives, but rather how we are able to lead others to a true encounter with Christ that can lead to lives being changed.
"Be doers of the Word and not just hearers only, deluding yourself."
For St. James, to hear the Word of God, to encounter Him in the kerygma, the proclamation, to know and love Him; all demands a response in kind. We cannot simply sit idly by as the world goes on, our faith must drive us forward. (I think of St. Paul: 'Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel!')
Our faith cannot stop at the doors of the Church, but must impel us forward in love of Christ and therefore in love for our brothers and sisters in Christ, whomever that is!
We also get a sense in the Gospel passage of something that is particularly Markan in scope: the Messianic Secret. How often over the last few weeks as we have journeyed with Jesus in Mark's account of the Gospel, we see how Jesus sends away those whom He has cured with strange instruction, such as today's 'Go straight home, do not go into the village.'
For St. Mark, there is an importance in having that one on one encounter with Christ and being changed by that encounter. Our witness to others might help that, but it is not an encounter with me that changes lives, but rather how we are able to lead others to a true encounter with Christ that can lead to lives being changed.
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Temptation can purify
In our initial reading at Mass, we have turned from the historical books of the Old Testament to the Letter of St. James. (As an aside, this is the Letter that Martin Luther infamously called the 'Epistle of Straw' due to his dislike for the contents of this Letter.)
Today, St. James identifies something that we likely all intuitively know: temptation is a part of life. However, there is a hidden aspect when facing these temptations to ask the question: 'Why is God doing this to me?' James offers a stern and quick rebuke to this line of questioning: It is not from God but is an enticement of our own desire.
When we face temptations, (going with Sunday's First Reading), we face a choice to give in or to resist. Certainly, at times, the temptations may be strong, particularly when we are weak, but that is why we have the availability of Confession, thanks be to God!
Finally, as we face and struggle against those temptations, with the Letter, we also begin to recognize the good things that God also gives, those little moments of overcoming, those little moments of Grace throughout the day, so that as Jesus challenges the Twelve in the Gospel, we might use our eyes to see the fingerprints of God in our day and our ears to hear His whispering voice encouraging us all to greatness.
Today, St. James identifies something that we likely all intuitively know: temptation is a part of life. However, there is a hidden aspect when facing these temptations to ask the question: 'Why is God doing this to me?' James offers a stern and quick rebuke to this line of questioning: It is not from God but is an enticement of our own desire.
When we face temptations, (going with Sunday's First Reading), we face a choice to give in or to resist. Certainly, at times, the temptations may be strong, particularly when we are weak, but that is why we have the availability of Confession, thanks be to God!
Finally, as we face and struggle against those temptations, with the Letter, we also begin to recognize the good things that God also gives, those little moments of overcoming, those little moments of Grace throughout the day, so that as Jesus challenges the Twelve in the Gospel, we might use our eyes to see the fingerprints of God in our day and our ears to hear His whispering voice encouraging us all to greatness.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Constant Conversion of Heart
Today's readings are a sad state of affairs.
Solomon, despite his wisdom, has fallen from that inner devotion that his father David had and has turned to the false gods worshiped by his many wives. As such, the LORD God will deprive him of his kingdom, rending the united monarchy in two: Judah and Benjamin in the south and the other ten tribes in the Kingdom of Israel in the north.
It is a harsh punishment. But it is a merited punishment. After all, he had asked for, and been given, a wise and prudent heart from God; and while he used it well for many years, he did not nurture that wisdom, he did not nurture that ongoing conversion of heart. Rather than stay true (and/or repent strongly when he fell, as David did), he let the many wives and concubines draw him away from his inner devotion and truth.
The lesson here is not one of 'you must maintain perfection!' Rather, I think the lesson is that ongoing conversion of heart that is called forth in our discipleship of Christ. David sinned, and sinned boldly at that! Yet, he was given the promise of an everlasting kingdom.
Solomon sinned as well. But when confronted, rather than repent, he built altars and shrines to the false gods that his wives and concubines introduced. Hence, his kingdom is rent in two.
Therefore, let us examine our own lives so that we might find those hidden sins (for I am sure Solomon thought he was doing his wives great service) that block us from that true inner devotion to Our Lord. Then, when we find them, let us repent of them, as David did, so that we might continue to grow stronger in Christ.
Solomon, despite his wisdom, has fallen from that inner devotion that his father David had and has turned to the false gods worshiped by his many wives. As such, the LORD God will deprive him of his kingdom, rending the united monarchy in two: Judah and Benjamin in the south and the other ten tribes in the Kingdom of Israel in the north.
It is a harsh punishment. But it is a merited punishment. After all, he had asked for, and been given, a wise and prudent heart from God; and while he used it well for many years, he did not nurture that wisdom, he did not nurture that ongoing conversion of heart. Rather than stay true (and/or repent strongly when he fell, as David did), he let the many wives and concubines draw him away from his inner devotion and truth.
The lesson here is not one of 'you must maintain perfection!' Rather, I think the lesson is that ongoing conversion of heart that is called forth in our discipleship of Christ. David sinned, and sinned boldly at that! Yet, he was given the promise of an everlasting kingdom.
Solomon sinned as well. But when confronted, rather than repent, he built altars and shrines to the false gods that his wives and concubines introduced. Hence, his kingdom is rent in two.
Therefore, let us examine our own lives so that we might find those hidden sins (for I am sure Solomon thought he was doing his wives great service) that block us from that true inner devotion to Our Lord. Then, when we find them, let us repent of them, as David did, so that we might continue to grow stronger in Christ.
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Our Lady of Lourdes and Inner Devotion
Today we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, commemorating the appearances of Our Lady under the title 'I Am the Immaculate Conception'. Appearing to a young, uneducated girl, Our Lady called for conversion of heart and dedication to Her Son, doesn't she always?
Anyway, it fits with today's Gospel reading, too. For the Scribes and the Pharisees had all the outward appearances of holiness and devotion to the Lord, yet their inner hearts were not oriented towards him.
Simply, do you go through the motions, or let the motions be the outward expression of that inner devotion and love for the Lord?
Anyway, it fits with today's Gospel reading, too. For the Scribes and the Pharisees had all the outward appearances of holiness and devotion to the Lord, yet their inner hearts were not oriented towards him.
Simply, do you go through the motions, or let the motions be the outward expression of that inner devotion and love for the Lord?
Monday, February 10, 2014
The Glory Cloud takes up residence in the Temple
Today's First Reading continues the story arc of David and now Solomon, today featuring the final conquest of Jerusalem and the Lord taking up his residence there.
Dirty little secret is that even though Jerusalem is the City of David, he never actually conquered the entire city... That was left for his son, Solomon, to complete.
As Jerusalem is taken over completely by the Israelites, to be their capital city and the City of God, in a way, Solomon today brings the Ark of the Lord to the city and to show his love and devotion to the Lord, he undertakes a massive sacrifice before the Lord to mark this monumental occasion.
As the sacrifices were completed, the whole Temple of the Lord is filled with the Glory Cloud as God takes up residence in His new home, in a sense. This is the same Shekina/Glory Cloud that led the people of Israel into the wilderness from Egypt and guided them throughout their journeys into the Promised Land. Now, after countless years of wandering, the people of Israel finally have a permanent home.
How do we adorn our own homes and hearts with the Glory of the Lord as we reflect on that wondrous mystery of the Lord God taking up residence in this palace?
Dirty little secret is that even though Jerusalem is the City of David, he never actually conquered the entire city... That was left for his son, Solomon, to complete.
As Jerusalem is taken over completely by the Israelites, to be their capital city and the City of God, in a way, Solomon today brings the Ark of the Lord to the city and to show his love and devotion to the Lord, he undertakes a massive sacrifice before the Lord to mark this monumental occasion.
As the sacrifices were completed, the whole Temple of the Lord is filled with the Glory Cloud as God takes up residence in His new home, in a sense. This is the same Shekina/Glory Cloud that led the people of Israel into the wilderness from Egypt and guided them throughout their journeys into the Promised Land. Now, after countless years of wandering, the people of Israel finally have a permanent home.
How do we adorn our own homes and hearts with the Glory of the Lord as we reflect on that wondrous mystery of the Lord God taking up residence in this palace?
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Seek a Wise Heart
In our daily readings, we have turned the page from the exploits of David and now look at the reign of his son, Solomon.
Appropriately, he begins his reign as King of Israel by acknowledging the one True King of Israel: the Lord God, offering a thousand burnt offerings at Gibeon.
That evening, in a dream, the Lord speaks to him, offering him such a unique grace: 'Ask of Me whatever you want...'
So many options present themselves: long life, destruction of enemies, riches, etc. etc. Instead, he asks for an understanding heart so as to aid his leadership of God's Chosen People.
Because he asks for a gift not necessarily for himself, but in service to his people, God does give him all the other things, besides.
If you were given the opportunity, what would you ask for from God? If that dream was presented to you, would you ask for wisdom and understanding? Long life? Career help?
How is God already offering you the answers to the questions that you seek?
Appropriately, he begins his reign as King of Israel by acknowledging the one True King of Israel: the Lord God, offering a thousand burnt offerings at Gibeon.
That evening, in a dream, the Lord speaks to him, offering him such a unique grace: 'Ask of Me whatever you want...'
So many options present themselves: long life, destruction of enemies, riches, etc. etc. Instead, he asks for an understanding heart so as to aid his leadership of God's Chosen People.
Because he asks for a gift not necessarily for himself, but in service to his people, God does give him all the other things, besides.
If you were given the opportunity, what would you ask for from God? If that dream was presented to you, would you ask for wisdom and understanding? Long life? Career help?
How is God already offering you the answers to the questions that you seek?
Friday, February 7, 2014
A recap of how David was perceived
Our first reading takes a quick break from the series in Samuel and Kings to give us a quick recap of the events that we have read about.
The last few chapters of the Book of Sirach gives us a wonderful insight into the prevalent thoughts that existed during the inter-testamental period, those last 150 years or so between the time of the end of the Old Covenant and the dawning of the New with the Birth of Our Lord. The Sacred Author retells Sacred History through the lives of the key figures of the Old Testament. If you have never read this section, it can be a great quick read for that sort of 10,000 foot view of the Old Covenant.
In today's section, we get the recap of David's life and ministry, and as we discussed a few days ago, we get an insight into why David is held up as such a great figure in Israel: 'With his whole being he loved his Maker and daily had his praises sung.' Everything David was and did was oriented towards praising the True King of Israel: The LORD God. He revolutionized the worship in the Temple as the author of so many Psalms that are still sung today. He recognized that beauty is able to change the heart and lead the devoted closer to God.
How might you and I continue to grow in the love of the Lord as David did... How might we all engage the world in Beauty so that hearts and minds might be daily lifted before our Lord and God...
The last few chapters of the Book of Sirach gives us a wonderful insight into the prevalent thoughts that existed during the inter-testamental period, those last 150 years or so between the time of the end of the Old Covenant and the dawning of the New with the Birth of Our Lord. The Sacred Author retells Sacred History through the lives of the key figures of the Old Testament. If you have never read this section, it can be a great quick read for that sort of 10,000 foot view of the Old Covenant.
In today's section, we get the recap of David's life and ministry, and as we discussed a few days ago, we get an insight into why David is held up as such a great figure in Israel: 'With his whole being he loved his Maker and daily had his praises sung.' Everything David was and did was oriented towards praising the True King of Israel: The LORD God. He revolutionized the worship in the Temple as the author of so many Psalms that are still sung today. He recognized that beauty is able to change the heart and lead the devoted closer to God.
How might you and I continue to grow in the love of the Lord as David did... How might we all engage the world in Beauty so that hearts and minds might be daily lifted before our Lord and God...
Friday, May 14, 2010
Hope for All Second Stringers
I had Mass today at a local Catholic High School for the volleyball team. I thought it fit right in with the Feast we celebrate today in St. Matthias, the original second stringer.
As I started the homily, I asked who started on the bench, that they might find in St. Matthias a good example.
First, think of the criteria used to chose Matthias: he was with them the whole time of the public ministry of Jesus, beginning with the Baptism and right up through the end. What went through his mind when Jesus chose the Twelve? HIM!?!? Seriously, Lord? Do you know what he's really like? How often we might think the same thing when we get passed over for something: starting line-up, cut from the team, passed over for a job promotion, etc. We might blame everyone: the coach, our boss, the person who got MY spot, maybe even ourselves for not being good enough to be 'picked.' I wonder if St. Matthias ever went through that.... Did he ever think about leaving because he wasn't 'good enough' to get picked to be part of the Twelve?
Rather, he stayed, listened, prayed, came to know our Lord in a deep and personal way. I wonder what kind of conversation he ever had with Jesus during the Public ministry.
Then, when his name was called, when he was put forward as a potential replacement, low and behold the lot came to him.
It is so tempting to sulk in our disappointments, in our defeats, in 'not measuring up' to whatever we think we should measure up; rather we should always be ready. One never knows when the star player will come down wrong on an ankle, pop a knee, betray Our Lord and be turned away from His forgiveness; and He calls when the time is right for that particular person.
I entered seminary at the age of 19, a classmate of mine (with whom I am having dinner tonight) entered seminary at 37. Does that mean I am somehow 1st string and he's 2nd? That I am somehow better because I responded quicker? By no means! God called him at the right time for him, and me for the right time for me; but we were both ready that when He called, our response: Here I am Lord, I come to do your will!
Always be ready and prepared to give account for your faith, you never know when the 'star' in front of you will go down and you will be called off the bench to step into a starring role.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Daily Readings
Has anyone else absolutely enjoyed the readings from First John this week? (The first readings at Mass)
I know this is going to sound terrible, but I've finally had some more of an insight into what John is doing in this Letter that makes it so profound. He is giving a wonderful theological treatise on what it meants to be a Christian Disciple. So often, to me at least, it seems that St. Paul talks about how to live the life, but St. John seems to be talking WHY one would do so.
Also, his approach is a great rebuttal to the Modern World as well: the reason we are disciples is not by our own choice, but by God's free gift of Self to us. "God first loved us, so now we must love one another." This is not something that I choose, but rather it is something that I cooperate with the working of Grace in my life, which is a gift from God.
Ahh, I just love St. John's writings!
I know this is going to sound terrible, but I've finally had some more of an insight into what John is doing in this Letter that makes it so profound. He is giving a wonderful theological treatise on what it meants to be a Christian Disciple. So often, to me at least, it seems that St. Paul talks about how to live the life, but St. John seems to be talking WHY one would do so.
Also, his approach is a great rebuttal to the Modern World as well: the reason we are disciples is not by our own choice, but by God's free gift of Self to us. "God first loved us, so now we must love one another." This is not something that I choose, but rather it is something that I cooperate with the working of Grace in my life, which is a gift from God.
Ahh, I just love St. John's writings!
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Something for priests to think about
Not to denigrate the laity, but something particularly for priests to be concerned with ocurred to me during the First Reading today at Mass:
Ezekiel 33:7-9
Thus says the LORD:
You, son of man, I have appointed watchman for the house of Israel;
when you hear me say anything, you shall warn them for me.
If I tell the wicked, “O wicked one, you shall surely die, ”
and you do not speak out to dissuade the wicked from his way,
the wicked shall die for his guilt,
but I will hold you responsible for his death.
But if you warn the wicked,
trying to turn him from his way,
and he refuses to turn from his way,
he shall die for his guilt,
but you shall save yourself.
You, son of man, I have appointed watchman for the house of Israel;
when you hear me say anything, you shall warn them for me.
If I tell the wicked, “O wicked one, you shall surely die, ”
and you do not speak out to dissuade the wicked from his way,
the wicked shall die for his guilt,
but I will hold you responsible for his death.
But if you warn the wicked,
trying to turn him from his way,
and he refuses to turn from his way,
he shall die for his guilt,
but you shall save yourself.
Notice, if the prophet fails to instruct the wayward, and that wayward person stays in his/her sins, the prophet is held responsible. HOWEVER, if the prophet instructs, but the wayward person is obstinate in his/her sins, then the prophet is no longer held responsible.
As priests, I think we all need to get back to this, the identity that my path to salvation, to heaven, necessarily involves helping others to get there first! If, especially as a diocesan priest, I am just concerned with my own things, I will be held responsible for the waywardness of the souls in my care.
I recently heard a quote from Fr. Corapi: "I'm not going to Hell because of your ignorance! You may desire to stay in your ignorance or obstinance, but it isn't because I haven't told you!"
Pray for your priests that they have the courage of Ezekiel, help him to have that courage by supporting him when he drops a tough homily on the crowd.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Go to my brothers and tell them...
Today is the Feast of Mary Magdalene, the devoted contemporary of Jesus, and first witness of His Ressurrection.
I've posted my thoughts on the readings and the feast over at MERELY * CATHOLIC, where I will be posted daily reflections, or at least somewhat daily reflections.
I've posted my thoughts on the readings and the feast over at MERELY * CATHOLIC, where I will be posted daily reflections, or at least somewhat daily reflections.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Today is the memorial of Our Lday of Mount Carmel, commemorating the giving of the scapular to the Carmelite order.
While today's readings do not really address the issue, I wanted to address a topic with the feast.
For more on the actual feast, hop on over to Padre Steve, SDB's, blog.
As a caveat, I do not wear a scapular, but have enrolled a number of people in the scapular. (I figure wearing a collar is pretty good protection.) I do always carry a rosary in my pocket.
To me, these traditions of wearing the scapular or medals or carrying a rosary highlight the 'tangible' nature of our faith. There are times when we need to hold on to something, maybe use it as a crutch in our prayers, maybe we are unable to pray during a time of crisis. Holding on to that rosary, embracing the protection of the scapular, gazing on the crucifix, is all a way that we are able to hold on to God's hand in time of trouble.
The connection with the Gospel that we must become childlike hits here. These 'sacramentals' give us something to hold on to when all else is in chaos. As a small child reaches up to grab mom or dad's hand when crossing the street, we reach up to grasp The Father's hand.
While today's readings do not really address the issue, I wanted to address a topic with the feast.
For more on the actual feast, hop on over to Padre Steve, SDB's, blog.
As a caveat, I do not wear a scapular, but have enrolled a number of people in the scapular. (I figure wearing a collar is pretty good protection.) I do always carry a rosary in my pocket.
To me, these traditions of wearing the scapular or medals or carrying a rosary highlight the 'tangible' nature of our faith. There are times when we need to hold on to something, maybe use it as a crutch in our prayers, maybe we are unable to pray during a time of crisis. Holding on to that rosary, embracing the protection of the scapular, gazing on the crucifix, is all a way that we are able to hold on to God's hand in time of trouble.
The connection with the Gospel that we must become childlike hits here. These 'sacramentals' give us something to hold on to when all else is in chaos. As a small child reaches up to grab mom or dad's hand when crossing the street, we reach up to grasp The Father's hand.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Isaiah and the Call to Conversion
I love the prophets, as they gently and not so gently call us to a continued conversion of heart; from Hosea's call to 'come back to me' to Isaiah's prophecies of a suffering servant who takes upon himself the guilt of us all.
In today's first reading, we hear the beginning of the prophecies and call of Isaiah to the people of Isreal:
What care I for the number of your sacrifices?says the LORD.I have had enough of whole-burnt ramsand fat of fatlings;In the blood of calves, lambs and goatsI find no pleasure.
Strong stuff, and in it's context it comes to light. Written as the kingdom continued its decline and fall, eventually leading to the Babylonian Exile, the Sacrifices and practices of the Temple had continued, even though the worship of Baal and the Caananite fertility gods had crept into Israel. Isaiah challenge here is that the sacrifice and worship in the Temple had become empty and no longer served the purpose of calling the faithful to conversion.
In the liturgy wars that are threatening to break out anew, keep in mind that the purpose of liturgy is conversion of heart of the believer, both lay and cleric alike. It is not a musical performance, it is not a call to social action; it is a call and a fostering of relationship with God. Certainly I think that correct celebration of the Sacraments are important, vital even, but as the means to the end of conversion, not as ends themselves.
In today's first reading, we hear the beginning of the prophecies and call of Isaiah to the people of Isreal:
What care I for the number of your sacrifices?says the LORD.I have had enough of whole-burnt ramsand fat of fatlings;In the blood of calves, lambs and goatsI find no pleasure.
Strong stuff, and in it's context it comes to light. Written as the kingdom continued its decline and fall, eventually leading to the Babylonian Exile, the Sacrifices and practices of the Temple had continued, even though the worship of Baal and the Caananite fertility gods had crept into Israel. Isaiah challenge here is that the sacrifice and worship in the Temple had become empty and no longer served the purpose of calling the faithful to conversion.
In the liturgy wars that are threatening to break out anew, keep in mind that the purpose of liturgy is conversion of heart of the believer, both lay and cleric alike. It is not a musical performance, it is not a call to social action; it is a call and a fostering of relationship with God. Certainly I think that correct celebration of the Sacraments are important, vital even, but as the means to the end of conversion, not as ends themselves.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
And Persecutions, Besides
It should come as no surprise that we face persecutions as we go about our work in the Church. Christ certainly faced it, and in today's Gospel account Jesus warns that we will indeed face persecutions and misunderstandings. It should come as no surprise that we face this.
This week, word has spread through the blogosphere that there have been desecrations of the Eucharist. In Florida, a student held Him 'hostage' as he protested that the state university supported religious groups on campus. In the admirable uproar, a professor in Minnesota (i think) who challenged some on to get him 'the sacred cracker' that he could also profane the Eucharist.
Again, when we stand for Truth, it should come as no surprise that we are opposed, by the Evil One, by those who do not understand what we believe and exhort that we should change to be like the rest of the world.
We are NOT like the rest of the world. We are held to a higher standard by Our Lord. And if we hold true to our faith, he gives the strength and ability to overcome our weaknesses as Jesus himself stands before His Heavenly Father and intercedes on our behalf.
And in those times where we are brought forward to face the judge and jury of the public opinion; Our Lord will give us the words to speak and will purify our lips, just as He did for Isaiah.
Therefore, we should not be afraid as we face persecution. It serves to purify us. It serves to unite us with Our Lord, and we should therefore rejoice that we have been found worthy to suffer for Jesus.
This week, word has spread through the blogosphere that there have been desecrations of the Eucharist. In Florida, a student held Him 'hostage' as he protested that the state university supported religious groups on campus. In the admirable uproar, a professor in Minnesota (i think) who challenged some on to get him 'the sacred cracker' that he could also profane the Eucharist.
Again, when we stand for Truth, it should come as no surprise that we are opposed, by the Evil One, by those who do not understand what we believe and exhort that we should change to be like the rest of the world.
We are NOT like the rest of the world. We are held to a higher standard by Our Lord. And if we hold true to our faith, he gives the strength and ability to overcome our weaknesses as Jesus himself stands before His Heavenly Father and intercedes on our behalf.
And in those times where we are brought forward to face the judge and jury of the public opinion; Our Lord will give us the words to speak and will purify our lips, just as He did for Isaiah.
Therefore, we should not be afraid as we face persecution. It serves to purify us. It serves to unite us with Our Lord, and we should therefore rejoice that we have been found worthy to suffer for Jesus.
Friday, July 11, 2008
St. Benedict and Pope Benedict
Today is the Feast of St. Benedict, the preserver of Western Culture as he introduced and established Western Monasticism during the collapse of the Roman Empire. His series of Monasteries provided safe haven for travelers, centers of learning which would eventually morph into the modern university system (ever wonder why you wear such goofy clothing upon graduation?), as well as forming centers of prayer that sanctified Europe and allowed a very tactile sense that God was present to His people during a very dark period of history; at least for most of our ancestors.
At another point in history where it looks as if Christendom is threatened from outsiders, Europe's population is on a downward spiral and the educational system has failed (to call a spade a spade); in steps Pope Benedict XVI. May he acheive even a small modicum of success that St. Benedict acheived!
Viva il Papa! (and safe travels to Australia, too!)
At another point in history where it looks as if Christendom is threatened from outsiders, Europe's population is on a downward spiral and the educational system has failed (to call a spade a spade); in steps Pope Benedict XVI. May he acheive even a small modicum of success that St. Benedict acheived!
Viva il Papa! (and safe travels to Australia, too!)
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Chinese Martyrs and the Call of the Twelve
Yesterday was the feast of the Chinese Martyrs: St. Augustine Zhao Rong and his 119 companions. The Gospel reading for Mass was the Call of the Twelve from Matthew's Gospel. I find these two events to be related, for at the key moments in our life, God calls us by name to follow after Him.
Our Baptism was not just done in some abstract way, but with a purposeful call of 'Kyle,' I baptize you in the name of the FAther and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. I've seen in several parishes that children are 'called to the Table' for their First Communion. At Confirmation, we are called by a new name to signify that we are now soldiers for Christ. At weddings and ordinations, again the name is used for the new identity.
In the Gosepl account, Jesus calls His Diciples by name to give them a unique and a special mission and to consecrate them for their mission to go forth and proclaim the Kingdom.
In the example and witness of the Chinese Martyrs, we see how this being called and consecrated to God is played out. The 120 individuals willingly gave their life in witness to Christ. In fact, the Ordo recounted the testimony of one young man who, as his arm was being torn off, boldly responded: every ounce of my flesh, every drop of my blood, will testify that I am a Christian!
Would that we all had the same courage and conviction as this young man.
Our Baptism was not just done in some abstract way, but with a purposeful call of 'Kyle,' I baptize you in the name of the FAther and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. I've seen in several parishes that children are 'called to the Table' for their First Communion. At Confirmation, we are called by a new name to signify that we are now soldiers for Christ. At weddings and ordinations, again the name is used for the new identity.
In the Gosepl account, Jesus calls His Diciples by name to give them a unique and a special mission and to consecrate them for their mission to go forth and proclaim the Kingdom.
In the example and witness of the Chinese Martyrs, we see how this being called and consecrated to God is played out. The 120 individuals willingly gave their life in witness to Christ. In fact, the Ordo recounted the testimony of one young man who, as his arm was being torn off, boldly responded: every ounce of my flesh, every drop of my blood, will testify that I am a Christian!
Would that we all had the same courage and conviction as this young man.
Monday, July 7, 2008
sugar or cane?
Last week, our First Reading at Mass was from the book of the Prophet Amos. He starts off gently enough: 'For three crimes of Israel and four!' He is bashing the people of Israel with a stick to get them to open their eyes that what they have been doing is offensive to God and if they don't change their ways..... POW! right in the kisser!
Contrast that with today's First Reading from the Prophet Hosea:
Thus says the LORD:I will allure her;I will lead her into the desertand speak to her heart.She shall respond there as in the days of her youth,when she came up from the land of Egypt.On that day, says the LORD,She shall call me “My husband,”and never again “My baal.”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.
There is a major difference in tone here from last week. Now that the eyes of the people are (hopefully) opened, God is leading them back into the relationship with Him that they once had as they 'came up from the land of Egypt.'
While it is tempting to hit people over their heads with the sins that are being committed (sometimes this is quite necessary, too!); true lasting conversion comes from the conviction of heart that has been touched by God, that has come to 'know the LORD.'
Therefore, in our efforts at evangelization, once we get those eyes opened and ready to see, bring them before Jesus in the Eucharist, and He will touch them and they will never turn back.
Contrast that with today's First Reading from the Prophet Hosea:
Thus says the LORD:I will allure her;I will lead her into the desertand speak to her heart.She shall respond there as in the days of her youth,when she came up from the land of Egypt.On that day, says the LORD,She shall call me “My husband,”and never again “My baal.”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.
There is a major difference in tone here from last week. Now that the eyes of the people are (hopefully) opened, God is leading them back into the relationship with Him that they once had as they 'came up from the land of Egypt.'
While it is tempting to hit people over their heads with the sins that are being committed (sometimes this is quite necessary, too!); true lasting conversion comes from the conviction of heart that has been touched by God, that has come to 'know the LORD.'
Therefore, in our efforts at evangelization, once we get those eyes opened and ready to see, bring them before Jesus in the Eucharist, and He will touch them and they will never turn back.
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