January 19, 2014: Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Catholic Social Teaching: Call to Family, Community and Participation
“The sacredness and dignity of human life exists not in isolation, but affirmed through individuals growing in community and seeking together the well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable.”
From: https://cst74life.wordpress.com/
Readings
First Reading: Isaiah 49:3, 5-6
Psalm: 40:2, 4, 7-8, 8-9, 10
Second Reading: 1st Corinthians 1:1-3
Gospel: John 1:29-34
Catechism of the Catholic Church
“…As the Spirit of truth will also do, John ‘came to bear witness to the light’. In John’s sight, the Spirit thus brings to completion the careful search of the prophets and fulfills the longing of the angels. “he on whom you see the Spirit descend and remains, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit. And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God…Behold the Lamb of God.” (719)
From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle A
Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church: no references this week
For complete text visit:
Reflection
Holiness is not the qualification for an exclusive club, with limited membership, but for all, everywhere—to the ends of the earth—who call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Sacrifices or offerings are not desired responses, when we know the Lord stoops toward us, for He desires our ears be attentive to His precepts. With God’s law of love permeating to the crevices of our heart, the prescribed response is we announce God’s justice in the vast assembly, without restraining our lips. This shall be our delight, for in knowing God’s and the Lord’s peace, a new song crescendos from our mouth.
How do we come to do the Lord’s will? You come with you experiences, as you waited for the Lord. How did those experiences mold your heart, fuel your passion for justice and modulate your perceptions? You come with the knowledge that God is now your strength, not predicated on the quantity of offerings you may labor to set before Him. How does this freedom unburden your soul to speak God’s justice? You come knowing the Lord takes away the sins of the world. How will you articulate this forgiveness in the world? You come with assurance that Jesus is the Son of God. How will you exemplify His passion for peace? Coming to do God’s will, we transition from our agenda to God’s design. It is not about how much we can do seeking financial or meritorious acclamations, but simply doing what God places in our hearts. And to realize that might be attentively, lovingly and compassionately dealing with injustice faced by one, solidarity person that crosses our path. Coming to do the Lord’s will is about caring in ways we previously thought unimaginable, on issues we once ignored and realize this is not a sacrifice—only a blessing.
Individual Reflection: Psalm 40, 2, 4, 7-8, 8-9, 10
As we pause to remember the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, where do you see injustice in your family, parish or community? How might you be a voice to raise awareness and address this injustice?
Family Reflection: Isaiah 49:3, 5-6
As a family, attend a memorial service, vigil or community celebration remembering the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Prayer
Lord thank you for making our ears attentive to your call. Always make us open to do your will. Erase timidity from our speech and actions, as we proclaim your justice. May we praise you with a new song that expounds from our joy of experiencing your love and the gift of salvation. Be with those mired in the abyss of injustice. Help us to affirm their dignity, as part of the human family. Temper our desire to judge and strengthen our efforts to affirm the strength of our diversity. We pray in our Savior’s dear name Amen.
Blogs to Visit:
As we reflect upon Mary’s presence in the mysteries of the Rosary, we are blessed to know her. For her journey, a timeless trek, calls us to surrender, continuing conversion, humbleness and justice now.
https://peaceonjustice.wordpress.com/
Weekly lectionary reflections, for faith sharing groups, parish bulletins, newsletters or personal prayer, from the synergy of the Word we hear and the rich tradition of Catholic Social Teaching.
https://cst74life.wordpress.com/
Catholic Social Teaching offers seven principles for upholding life in our thoughts, decisions and actions.
How we do Catholic Social Teaching.
https://csmresources.wordpress.com/
Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.
Involvement Opportunities
List one or two upcoming events, legislative action alerts or social justice websites
By Barb Born December 30, 2013 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern
