Divine Mercy Sunday, Second Sunday of Easter Lectionary Reflection April 19, 2020

 

April 19, 2020: Divine Mercy Sunday, Second Sunday of Easter

 

Catholic Social Teaching: Solidarity

Working for peace can never be separated from announcing the Gospel, which is in fact the “good news of peace” (Acts 10:36; cf. Eph 6:15) addressed to all men and women. At the centre of “the gospel of peace” (Eph 6:15) remains the mystery of the cross, because peace is born of Christ’s sacrifice (cf. Is 53:5) — “Upon him was the chastisement that made us whole, and with his stripes we were healed”. The crucified Jesus has overcome divisions, re-establishing peace and reconciliation, precisely through the cross, “thereby bringing the hostility to an end” (Eph 2:16) and bringing the salvation of the Resurrection to mankind. (493) Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church

 

Readings 

First Reading: Acts 2:42-47

Psalm: 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24

Second Reading: 1st Peter 1:3-9

Gospel: John 20:19-31 (Cycles A, B and C)

 

Catechism of the Catholic Church

The disciple of Christ must not only keep the faith and live on it, but also profess it, confidently bear witness to it, and spread it: “All however must be prepared to confess Christ before men and to follow him along the way of the Cross, amidst the persecutions which the Church never lacks.”  Service of and witness to the faith are necessary for salvation: “So every one who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven; but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.” (1816) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to Divine Mercy Sunday, Second Sunday of Easter, Cycle A

 

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

John 20:19, 21 and 26

The promise of peace that runs through the entire Old Testament finds its fulfillment in the very person of Jesus. Peace, in fact, is the messianic attribute par excellence, in which all other beneficial effects of salvation are included. The Hebrew word “shalom” expresses this fullness of meaning in its etymological sense of “completeness” (cf. Is 9:5ff; Mic 5:1-4). The kingdom of the Messiah is precisely the kingdom of peace (cf. Job 25:2; Ps 29:11; 37:11; 72:3,7; 85:9,11; 119:165; 125:5, 128:6; 147:14; Song 8:10; Is 26:3,12; 32:17f.; 52:7; 54:10; 57:19; 60:17; 66:12; Hag 2:9; Zech 9:10; et al.). Jesus “is our peace” (Eph 2:14). He has broken down the dividing wall of hostility among people, reconciling them with God (cf. Eph 2:14-16). This is the very effective simplicity with which Saint Paul indicates the radical motivation spurring Christians to undertake a life and a mission of peace.

On the eve of his death, Jesus speaks of his loving relation with the Father and the unifying power that this love bestows upon his disciples. It is a farewell discourse which reveals the profound meaning of his life and can be considered a summary of all his teaching. The gift of peace is the seal on his spiritual testament: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you” (Jn 14:27). The words of the Risen Lord will not be any different; every time that he meets his disciples they receive from him the greeting and gift of peace: “Peace be with you” (Lk 24:36; Jn 20:19,21,26).  (491)

For complete text visit: http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/justpeace/documents/rc_pc_justpeace_doc_20060526_compendio-dott-soc_en.html

 

Reflection 

How did the early Church look so different from the Church of today?  Everyday the Lord added to their numbers, but today, many places around the globe dwindling affiliation, especially among the younger population is the reality.  Is the Church veiled today in hypocrisy?  Afraid to come together where all people enjoy the favor of the Lord. Prioritizing exclusions over welcoming to break bread together at the Eucharistic feast, as the source of spiritual nourishment and substance for the journey of life. Teaching, wonders and signs thru apostles were manifest through a communal life of worship and prayer imparting awe on everyone.  All who believed were together, not segregated by age, gender or spiritual camps existing as bastions hanging on to one spiritual thread and diminishing the rich depository of faith.  For the early Church, assets did not attempt to frame ideological thought and teaching in a skewed paradigm, but all who believed were together and held all things in common, in a spiritual and physical essence.  So the spiritual and physical needs of all were addressed according to each one’s needs.  A spiritual camaraderie living and presenting faith to the world as a continuation of Jesus’ message.  Not a power play establishing apostolic empires, but amplifying the generosity of God.  What a message that would portray the Church as to the world today.  For through how we live and proclaim faith, we have a spiritual inheritance, greater than any physical entity or perceived treasure, that is imperishable, undefiled and unfading, kept and safeguarded in heaven for us.  Among the trials of life, we can still rejoice to this genuineness of faith, since we love and believe in our Savior Jesus Christ. For the only places Jesus doesn’t enter is closed minds and hearts predicated on attachment to sin. Places lacking freedom from not letting Jesus enter and define their  primary identity as a child of God, Jesus’ sister or brother.  As Church today, we must let Jesus enter our doors, stand in our midst without fabricating boundaries of myopic proportions.  Then the whole Church, all people of God, will not be limited from hearing Jesus proclaim, “Peace be with you”, without qualifications fashioned by human mindsets.  And the Church today needs to hear Jesus’ words, “As the Father has sent me, so I send you”, with the accompanying breadth of the Holy Spirit.  We must not let doubt, like Thomas, define our perception of faith, but prioritize Jesus’ initial words when greeting disciples after the Resurrection, “Peace be with you.”  For we are blessed to believe with the gift of faith and not needing to see the nail pierced hands of our Lord.  We have life and may our Church have the fullness of life in His name as we give thanks to the Lord by confessing our faith not just within the silence of our heart, but by the realities our lives.  The tenderness, compassion, mercy, generosity the Divine models for us.  For He is good, His love endures forever and is wonderful  viewed in our spiritual eyes.  For this day and everyday, the Lord has made and may we have the faith to be glad and rejoice in it.  

 

Individual Reflection: Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24

How are you living this Easter season to embrace each day, “This is the day the Lord has made, let us be glad and rejoice in it” ? 

 

Family Reflection: John 20:19-31

April 25th is the feast of St Mark, a co-worker of Peter.  Mark is the first recorded Gospel.  As a family,  read the Gospel together and discuss how his presentation of the message of Jesus is manifest in your faith journey today.  

 

Prayer: Reflect on the song  Many and One, as a theme we need to embrace in the Church today

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxJdrFyWj-Y

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcx_oZdHlwY

 

Blogs to Visit:

http://marynow.wordpress.com/

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.

http://idocst.wordpress.com/

How we do Catholic Social Teaching.

https://csmresources.wordpress.com/

Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.

https://smrep.wordpress.com/

Social Ministry Resources Engaging Parishes: Monthly and liturgical seasons resources for use with parish websites, bulletins and newsletters

 

Involvement Opportunities

List one or two upcoming events, legislative action alerts or social justice websites

 

By Barb  Born  April 13, 2020  The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary Reflection August 18, 2019

August 18, 2019: Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Catholic Social Teaching: Rights and Responsibilities

Men and women of science and culture are called to make their particular contribution to solving the vast and complex problems connected with work, which in some areas take on dramatic proportions. This contribution is very important for coming up with the proper solutions. This is a responsibility that requires that they identify the occasions and risks present in the changes taking place, and above all that they suggest lines of action for guiding change in a way that will be most beneficial to the development of the entire human family. To these men and women falls the important task of reading and interpreting the social phenomena with wisdom and with love of truth, leaving behind concerns imposed by special or personal interests. Their contribution, precisely because it is of a theoretical nature, becomes an essential point of reference for the concrete action prescribed by economic policies. (320)  Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church

 

Readings 

First Reading: Jeremiah 38:4-6, 8-10

Psalm: 40:2, 3, 4,18

Second Reading: Hebrews 12:1-4

Gospel: Luke 12:49-53

 

Catechism of the Catholic Church

Fortitude is the moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptations and to overcome obstacles in the moral life. The virtue of fortitude enables one to conquer fear, even fear of death, and to face trials and persecutions. It disposes one even to renounce and sacrifice his life in defense of a just cause. “The Lord is my strength and my song.”  “In the world you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (1808) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C

 

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:  No reference this week

For complete text visit: http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/justpeace/documents/rc_pc_justpeace_doc_20060526_compendio-dott-soc_en.html

 

Reflection 

Truth illuminating injustice sets the world on fire.  The initial response may demoralize those experiencing the fire of purification.  The call to change attitudes, behaviors and relationships.  The rebirth for the common good, where all are respected, valued and affirmed.  People may think they have the power to quench the truth, maintain the status quo of elitism dominating the narrative, but power can only insulate itself from truth for so long.  For the intensity of truth exposes injustice that people will accept and affirm no more.  When power mimics truth, questions arise, percolating to the surface.  Who is excluded? Who is exploited?  Who is fiscally abuses? What are the long-term detrimental consequences to humanity and creation?  Concern draws us up from the depths of wallowing in truths only affirming the paradigm for some and not all.  The need to climb from darkness into light pulling ourselves up one hand at a time draws us continually closer to the truth.  The gaze into once dark shadows to brilliantly see connectivity of issues beyond the simplicity of a single ray of light to see the full spectrum radiating into our face.  We can only embrace the truth or run and hide if absorbing the full spectrum is too challenging.  A process that may separate people along ideological divides.  But we have a great cloud of witnesses, the prophets, named and unnamed who would not separate themselves from truth.  They were there at critical times of chaos, giant leaps in technology, freeing of the oppressed, standing up to oppressive regimes of political, social, philosophical and religious paradigms.  They risked credibility, substance and at times their lives.  Jesus, the leader and prefecture of faith is the ultimate witness to truth in spiritual dimensions and social reality.  By repositioning the message of the cross from shame to salvation, He exposed the truth of God’s love for humanity.   A constant reminder each time we gaze at the crucifix that we should not grow weary or lose heart as we strive to illuminate truth and set the world on fire for justice.. 

 

Individual Reflection:Hebrews 12:1-4

Read the book Cloud of Witnesses, Jim Wallis and Joyce Hollyday. Who do you find inspirational and relevant to illuminating truth in today’s world?

 

Family Reflection: Luke 12:49-53

What truth needs to be illuminated today?  How can your family illuminate that truth?

 

Prayer: Reflect on the primacy of love forming  truth in the breadths of justice

Discovering that they are loved by God, people come to understand their own transcendent dignity, they learn not to be satisfied with only themselves but to encounter their neighbour in a network of relationships that are ever more authentically human. Men and women who are made “new” by the love of God are able to change the rules and the quality of relationships, transforming even social structures. They are people capable of bringing peace where there is conflict, of building and nurturing fraternal relationships where there is hatred, of seeking justice where there prevails the exploitation of man by man. Only love is capable of radically transforming the relationships that men maintain among themselves. This is the perspective that allows every person of good will to perceive the broad horizons of justice and human development in truth and goodness.  (4) Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church 

 

Blogs to Visit:

http://marynow.wordpress.com/

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.

http://idocst.wordpress.com/

How we do Catholic Social Teaching.

https://csmresources.wordpress.com/

Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.

https://smrep.wordpress.com/

Social Ministry Resources Engaging Parishes: Monthly and liturgical seasons resources for use with parish websites, bulletins and newsletters

 

Involvement Opportunities

List one or two upcoming events, legislative action alerts or social justice websites

 

By Barb  Born  August 11, 2019 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Eleventh Sunday of Ordinary Time Lectionary Reflection June 17, 2018

June 17, 2018: Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

Catholic Social Teaching: Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

Pope Francis’ thoughts on the mustard seed from October 31, 2017 homily at Santa Marta :

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope-francis/mass-casa-santa-marta/2017-10/pope-francis–_courage-is-needed-for-the-kingdom-of-god-to-grow.html

Courage is needed for the Kingdom of God to grow

At Mass, Pope Francis spoke about the courage to dirty one’s hand in sowing the seed and mixing the yeast to help the Kingdom of God to grow.

To help the Kingdom of God grow, courage is needed to sow the mustard seed and mix the yeast, in the face of many who prefer a “pastoral care of conservation” without dirtying their hands.  Pope Francis made the point in his homily at Mass, Tuesday morning, in the chapel of the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.  The Pope took his cue from Luke’s Gospel where Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a mustard seed and yeast, which though small, “have a power within” to grow.

Suffering to glory

In his Letter to the Romans, the Pope said, St. Paul speaks about the many anxieties of life that are nothing compared to the glory that awaits us.  Commenting on the struggle between suffering and glory, the Pope said, in our sufferings there is in fact “an ardent expectation” for a “great revelation of the Kingdom of God”.  It is an expectation that belongs not only to us but also to creation,  that is frail like us whoa are yearning for the “revelation of the children of God”.  This inner strength that leads us to hope for the fullness of the Kingdom of God, the Pope pointed out, is the Holy Spirit.

Holy Spirit brings hope, growth

The Pope said it is this hope that leads us to fullness, the hope of coming out of this prison, this limitation, this slavery, this corruption, and reaching glory, is a journey of hope.  And hope, the Pope said, is the gift of the Holy Spirit who is in us and leads us to liberation, to great glory. This is why Jesus says that inside this tiny mustard seed there is the force that “unleashes an unimaginable growth’ “.  It is the same within us and in creation, the Pope pointed out.  It is the  the Holy Spirit that bursts forth and gives us hope.

Getting hands dirty rather than being museum custodians

The Pope noted that in the Church one can see both the courage and the fear to sow the seed and mix the yeast.  There are those who feel secure with a “pastoral care of conservation,” that denies the Kingdom of God to grow. The Pope admitted there is always some loss in sowing the Kingdom of God. One loses the seed and gets hands dirty.  He warned those who preach the Kingdom of God with the illusion of not getting dirty.  Comparing them to museum custodians, he said they prefer beautiful things without sowing that allows the inner force to burst forth, and without mixing the yeast that triggers growth.

The Pope said that both Jesus and Paul point to this passing from the slavery of sin to the fullness of glory.  It speaks of hope that does not disappoint, because like a mustard seed and yeast, hope is small and humble like a servant but where there is hope, there is the Holy Ghost, who carries forward the Kingdom of God, the Pope added.

Video of Pope Francis’ homily on the mustard seed: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7egAmXL50hQ

Readings 

First Reading: Ezekiel 17:22-24

Psalm: 92:2-3, 13-14, 15-16

Second Reading: 2nd Corinthians 5:6-10

Gospel: Mark 4:26-34

Catechism of the Catholic Church

God is the sovereign master of his plan. But to carry it out he also makes use of his creatures’ co-operation. This use is not a sign of weakness, but rather a token of almighty God’s greatness and goodness. For God grants his creatures not only their existence, but also the dignity of acting on their own, of being causes and principles for each other, and thus of co-operating in the accomplishment of his plan. (306)

From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the, Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time,  Cycle B

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

Psalm 92:15

Love is also expressed in the generous attention shown to the elderly who live in families: their presence can take on great value. They are an example of connections between generations, a resource for the well-being of the family and of the whole of society: “Not only do they show that there are aspects of life — human, cultural, moral and social values — which cannot be judged in terms of economic efficiency, but they can also make an effective contribution in the work-place and in leadership roles. In short, it is not just a question of doing something for older people, but also of accepting them in a realistic way as partners in shared projects — at the level of thought, dialogue and action”. As the Sacred Scripture says: “They still bring forth fruit in old age” (Ps 92:15). The elderly constitute an important school of life, capable of transmitting values and traditions, and of fostering the growth of younger generations, who thus learn to seek not only their own good but also that of others. If the elderly are in situations where they experience suffering and dependence, not only do they need health care services and appropriate assistance, but — and above all — they need to be treated with love.

(222)

For complete text visit: http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/justpeace/documents/rc_pc_justpeace_doc_20060526_compendio-dott-soc_en.html

Reflection 

We don’t need faith the size of a palm tree seed, weighing up to forty pounds, or the size of an avocado seed weighing a few ounces, or the size of a cucumber seed almost negligible on a scale.  Jesus says we just need  faith the size of a  mustard seed, one of the smallest  seeds in  creation.    A mustard seeds weighs only .000004409 of a pound, for over 225,000 seeds per pound.  Conveyed through a parable, Jesus reminds us our faith does not have to be gigantic to do HIs will, live His peace and proclaim the Gospel.  A mustard seed of faith has that inherent spark of life to grow and spread forth a canopy to embrace the rich breadth of  Catholic thought.  A seed that matures by cracking open to sprout, bursting forth to embrace the elements of creation, water, sun and soil, to become a tree with twenty foot breadth and height, so with faith we open ourselves to the goodness of all creation embracing all humanity if faith is alive in our soul.  What empowers even a small mustard seed of faith to become a bush providing comfort and beauty as co-creators in God’s kingdom?  Courage, not of dominance, displacing others or brazen actions, but the seed of faith within granting us the audacity to venture forth even when fear permeates the environment.  A  lifetime of vigorous growth and study.  For we walk with faith, an unseen commodity, not a visual reality discernible with one’s eyes.  A parable of paradox.  A parable of mystery.  A parable only understood by a disciple.  How do you define the parable of faith you are living?  What analogy do you foster?  We must not articulate in words and actions a parable that shrinks the Gospel canopy to accommodate only a few who define “truth” for one’s comfort zone, while demonizing others.  We must see our seed of faith grow within a diversity of seeds nurtured, bringing goodness to foster creation.  We must  also help withered plants to revitalize themselves.  How we live our paradigm of faith must exclaim thanks to the Lord for the Word of God placed in our lives by kindness and enduring faithfulness even when sinister agendas may seem to sap our roots dry.  For while God is the sovereign master of the Divine plan, we materially participate in HIs plan of creation by being attentive, available and acting to accomplish HIs justice, which is nourished by the seed of faith planted in our hearts.  

Individual Reflection: Psalm 92:2-3, 13-14, 15-16

June 20th is World Refugee Day 

http://www.un.org/en/events/refugeeday/

How can your parish educate parishioners and the broader community about the challenges of refugees and support their journey in your community?

Family Reflection: Mark 4:26-34

June 21st is the longest day of the year and start of summer.  Enjoy a picnic!

Prayer: Thank God for all the beautiful plants of creation.  Take pictures of some of your favorite plants and share the pictures as an act of thanksgiving. 

Blogs to Visit:

http://marynow.wordpress.com/

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.

http://idocst.wordpress.com/

How we do Catholic Social Teaching.

https://csmresources.wordpress.com/

Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.

https://smrep.wordpress.com/

Social Ministry Resources Engaging Parishes: Monthly and liturgical seasons resources for use with parish websites, bulletins and newsletters

Involvement Opportunities

List one or two upcoming events, legislative action alerts or social justice websites

By Barb  Born June 9, 2018 Immaculate Heart of Mary The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

The Most Holy Trinity Lectionary Reflection May 27, 2018

May 27, 2018: The Most Holy Trinity

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 Catholic Social Teaching: Seven Principles for Life, https://cst74life.wordpress.com/

Readings
First Reading: Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40
Psalm: 33:4-5, 6, 9, 18-19, 20, 22
Second Reading: Romans 8:14-17
Gospel: Matthew 28:16-20

Catechism of the Catholic Church
St. Gregory of Nazianzus, also called “the Theologian”, entrusts this summary of Trinitarian faith to the catechumens of Constantinople:
Above all guard for me this great deposit of faith for which I live and fight, which I want to take with me as a companion, and which makes me bear all evils and despise all pleasures: I mean the profession of faith in the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. I entrust it to you today. By it I am soon going to plunge you into water and raise you up from it. I give it to you as the companion and patron of your whole life. I give you but one divinity and power, existing one in three, and containing the three in a distinct way. Divinity without disparity of substance or nature, without superior degree that raises up or inferior degree that casts down. . . the infinite co-naturality of three infinites. Each person considered in himself is entirely God. . . the three considered together. . . I have not even begun to think of unity when the Trinity bathes me in its splendor. I have not even begun to think of the Trinity when unity grasps me.(256)

From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to The Most Holy Trinity Cycle B

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

 

Matthew 28:19-20
God, in Christ, redeems not only the individual person but also the social relations existing between men. As the Apostle Paul teaches, life in Christ makes the human person’s identity and social sense — with their concrete consequences on the historical and social planes — emerge fully and in a new manner: “For in Christ Jesus you are all children of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ” (Gal 3:26-28). In this perspective, Church communities, brought together by the message of Jesus Christ and gathered in the Holy Spirit round the Risen Lord (cf. Mt 18:20, 28:19-20; Lk 24:46-49), offer themselves as places of communion, witness and mission, and as catalysts for the redemption and transformation of social relationships.(52)

Romans 8:14-17

The new reality that Jesus Christ gives us is not grafted onto human nature nor is it added from outside: it is rather that reality of communion with the Trinitarian God to which men and women have always been oriented in the depths of their being, thanks to their creaturely likeness to God. But this is also a reality that people cannot attain by their own forces alone. Through the Spirit of Jesus Christ, the incarnate Son of God, in whom this reality of communion has already been brought about in a singular manner, men and women are received as children of God (cf. Rom 8:14-17; Gal 4:4-7). By means of Christ, we share in the nature of God, who gives us infinitely more “than all that we ask or think” (Eph 3:20). What mankind has already received is nothing more than a token or a “guarantee” (2 Cor 1:22; Eph 1:14) of what it will receive in its fullness only in the presence of God, seen “face to face” (1 Cor 13:12), that is, a guarantee of eternal life: “And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent” (Jn 17:3). (122)

 

Romans 8:15
The Face of God, progressively revealed in the history of salvation, shines in its fullness in the Face of Jesus Christ crucified and risen from the dead. God is Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; truly distinct and truly one, because God is an infinite communion of love. God’s gratuitous love for humanity is revealed, before anything else, as love springing from the Father, from whom everything draws its source; as the free communication that the Son makes of this love, giving himself anew to the Father and giving himself to mankind; as the ever new fruitfulness of divine love that the Holy Spirit pours forth into the hearts of men (cf. Rom 5:5).

By his words and deeds, and fully and definitively by his death and resurrection Jesus reveals to humanity that God is Father and that we are all called by grace to become his children in the Spirit (cf. Rom 8:15; Gal 4:6), and therefore brothers and sisters among ourselves. It is for this reason that the Church firmly believes that “the key, the centre and the purpose of the whole of man’s history is to be found in her Lord and Master”.(31)
For complete text visit: http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/justpeace/documents/rc_pc_justpeace_doc_20060526_compendio-dott-soc_en.html

Reflection
We like to add. Add toppings to a sundae, add money to our checking account, add memory to our computer, add accessories to our car, add clothes to our wardrobe, add apps to our phone, add postings to social media. Doing more to what was already good, thinking more will translate to better. A never ending quest for self-satisfaction. But God invites us to delve into another paradigm, multiplication. We relate to mathematical conventions adding an integer to itself, but we must look at the premise with Divine pretense. In theory, a place where numbers do not need to grow, but resulting relationships are enhanced. A principle modeled in the Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Three manifestations of one God collectively providing for us realization of Divine design and wisdom of accompaniment. Our challenge prods us to transform minds rooted in human essence of addition to grasp the beauty of multiplication. The release of amassing quantifiable objects for weaving ourselves into relationships. A place where happiness comes from realizing individualism only burns bridges leaving us stranded in isolation, slaves to our pursuit of addition entrenching ourselves in fear of not having enough, being enough. A place where justice, right and kindness will never gain traction, for each requires multiplication to flourish. Listening to one another, working together, each necessitates coming together. A time when we look beyond ourselves as 1+1+1+…x =n…a gigantic number to 1x1x1…x =1 where all of humanity united in a matrix of hope, striving for justice, working for the right, the best of humanity only found when the common good defines decisions and kindness flows as a balm to nurture and sooth being one. A synergy modeled for us in the Holy Trinity and invites us to partake in the Spirit of adoption, with Abba Father, our brother Jesus and the Spirit bearing witness in the world. As children of God, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, will we accept our inheritance and the gift of multiplication. A gift, as disciples, we should impart its beauty on the world. Multiplication from the lineage of baptism present now and till the end of the age that we should go forth and teach by the way we live our lives, blessed by the Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Individual Reflection: Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40
What are five ways you can live more in a spirit of multiplication instead of a spirit of addition? Have a conversation about addition and multiplication with five people.

Family Reflection: Matthew 28:16-20
After mass, walk around your parish church and look for symbols that remind you of the Holy Trinity.

Prayer:
Glory be to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Amen

Blogs to Visit:
http://marynow.wordpress.com/
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.
http://idocst.wordpress.com/
How we do Catholic Social Teaching.
https://csmresources.wordpress.com/
Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.
https://smrep.wordpress.com/
Social Ministry Resources Engaging Parishes: Monthly and liturgical seasons resources for use with parish websites, bulletins and newsletters

Involvement Opportunities
List one or two upcoming events, legislative action alerts or social justice websites

By Barb Born May 16, 2018 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

 

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary Reflection August 13, 2017

August 13, 2017: Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Catholic Social Teaching: Care for Creation

The relationship of man with the world is a constitutive part of his human identity. This relationship is in turn the result of another still deeper relationship between man and God. The Lord has made the human person to be a partner with him in dialogue. Only in dialogue with God does the human being find his truth, from which he draws inspiration and norms to make plans for the future of the world, which is the garden that God has given him to keep and till (cf. Gen 2: 15). Not even sin could remove this duty, although it weighed down this exalted work with pain and suffering (cf. Gen 3:17-19).

Creation is always an object of praise in Israel’s prayer: “O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all” (Ps 104:24). Salvation is perceived as a new creation that re-establishes that harmony and potential for growth that sin had compromised: “I create new heavens and a new earth” (Is 65:17) — says the Lord — in which “the wilderness becomes a fruitful field … and righteousness [will] abide in the fruitful field … My people will abide in a peaceful habitation” (Is 32:1518). (452) Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church

Readings
First Reading: 1st Kings 19:9a, 11-13a
Psalm: 85:9, 10, 11-12, 13-14
Second Reading: Romans 9:1-5
Gospel: Matthew 14:22-33

Catechism of the Catholic Church

“The sum of your word is truth; and every one of your righteous ordinances endures forever.” “And now, O LORD God, you are God, and your words are true”; this is why God’s promises always come true. God is Truth itself, whose words cannot deceive. This is why one can abandon oneself in full trust to the truth and faithfulness of his word in all things. The beginning of sin and of man’s fall was due to a lie of the tempter who induced doubt of God’s word, kindness and faithfulness. (215)

From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle A

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

Psalm 85: 9 and 85:11

Peace is the goal of life in society, as is made extraordinarily clear in the messianic vision of peace: when all peoples will go up to the Lord’s house, and he will teach them his ways and they will walk along the ways of peace (cf. Is 2:2-5). A new world of peace that embraces all of nature is the promise of the messianic age (cf. Is 11:6-9), and the Messiah himself is called “Prince of peace” (Is 9:5). Wherever his peace reigns, wherever it is present even in part, no longer will anyone be able to make the people of God fearful (cf. Zeph 3:13). It is then that peace will be lasting, because when the king rules according to God’s justice, righteousness flourishes and peace abounds “till the moon be no more” (Ps 72:7). God longs to give peace to his people: “he will speak of peace to his people, to his saints, to those who turn to him in their hearts” (Ps 85:9). Listening to what God has to say to his people about peace, the Psalmist hears these words: “Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss” (Ps 85:11). (490)

 

Psalm 85:9, 11

The promise of peace that runs through the entire Old Testament finds its fulfilment in the very person of Jesus. Peace, in fact, is the messianic attribute par excellence, in which all other beneficial effects of salvation are included. The Hebrew word “shalom” expresses this fullness of meaning in its etymological sense of “completeness” (cf. Is 9:5ff; Mic 5:1-4). The kingdom of the Messiah is precisely the kingdom of peace (cf. Job 25:2; Ps 29:11; 37:11; 72:3,7; 85:9,11; 119:165; 125:5, 128:6; 147:14; Song 8:10; Is 26:3,12; 32:17f.; 52:7; 54:10; 57:19; 60:17; 66:12; Hag 2:9; Zech 9:10; et al.). Jesus “is our peace” (Eph 2:14). He has broken down the dividing wall of hostility among people, reconciling them with God (cf. Eph 2:14-16). This is the very effective simplicity with which Saint Paul indicates the radical motivation spurring Christians to undertake a life and a mission of peace.
On the eve of his death, Jesus speaks of his loving relation with the Father and the unifying power that this love bestows upon his disciples. It is a farewell discourse which reveals the profound meaning of his life and can be considered a summary of all his teaching. The gift of peace is the seal on his spiritual testament: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you” (Jn 14:27). The words of the Risen Lord will not be any different; every time that he meets his disciples they receive from him the greeting and gift of peace: “Peace be with you” (Lk 24:36; Jn 20:19,21,26). (491)

Matthew 14:22-33

The definitive salvation that God offers to all humanity through his own Son does not come about outside of this world. While wounded by sin, the world is destined to undergo a radical purification (cf. 2 Pet 3:10) that will make it a renewed world (cf. Is 65:17, 66:22; Rev 21:1), finally becoming the place where “righteousness dwells” (2 Pet 3:13).
In his public ministry, Jesus makes use of natural elements. Not only is he a knowledgeable interpreter of nature, speaking of it in images and parables, but he also dominates it (cf. the episode of the calming of the storm in Mt 14:22-33; Mk 6:45-52; Lc 8:22-25; Jn 6:16-21). The Lord puts nature at the service of his plan of redemption. He asks his disciples to look at things, at the seasons and at people with the trust of children who know that they will never be abandoned by a provident Father (cf. Lk 11:11-13). Far from being enslaved by things, the disciple of Jesus must know how to use them in order to bring about sharing and brotherhood (cf. Lk 16:9-13). (453)

 

For complete text visit: http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/justpeace/documents/rc_pc_justpeace_doc_20060526_compendio-dott-soc_en.html

Reflection
The sum of all God’s words is truth. Truth transcends just a couple of words or phrases. Truth encompasses a wide spectrum and depth of concepts. For God’s demeanor rests on a multi faceted balance, not teetering to one issue, extolled in only one principle. As followers of Jesus we might fool ourselves in a boat load of like minded believers reveling about a single issue. But Jesus invites us, in faith, to leave the safe confines of our boats to walk on the seas of life. Many times choppy waves challenge us and strong winds buffet us in the complexities of many swirling paradigms. We must live as disciples trusting God’s truth in all its grandeur relevant to all life’s issues and encounters. A call not to chip a fragment of truth off the embodiment of truth and attempt to put the chip on spiritual steroids. To make it all powerful and domineering over the collective beauty of the interconnectedness of all God’s truth. God adores balance. Jesus was balanced as human and divine. The Holy Spirit manifest as peace and power. Shall we take this spiritual cue and look at the balanced diversity of truth?

God’s truth displays not brut force, incessant bantering, an either or mentality. For truth meets with kindness, a place where love abounds, a gathering of us, not you, me or I, for collective mutual respect. Truth seeks to manifest the common good, for then only justice reigns. A metamorphosis of truth births God’s justice that excludes no one from belonging, participating and praising God’s kingdom. As Jesus made the disciples get in the boat to travel to a new destination and dismissed the crowds from feeding the multitudes he had pity on, without a megaphone, so we too are sent forth from the Eucharistic table to live truth in the world today. To make truth known, with a hallmark of justice, so our land shall yield an increase of truth’s fruits. An excursion of truth in the subtleties of life, unspoken words, whispers or muffled speech. For many times injustice hides, there in lives oppressed, pain of “isms” lives endure. Living and breathing God’s truth, with our whole being, breaches the security of caves hewn from truth of singular design. Only when we hear the collective utterances of all God’s truth, will our lives no longer feel unsettled, for we know God proclaims peace. Any attempts at vengeance, lack of welcome or mockery is not crafted from God’s truth, not offered in kindness and not bestowed in God’s peace.

Individual Reflection: Matthew 14:22-33

A Year of the Laity is proposed by the National Conference of Brazilian Bishops and their lay commission from the Feast of Christ the King 2017 till Feast of Christ the King 2018.The goal of the Year of the Laity is for lay men and women to become conscience of their church that is going out into the world. This is returning to the ecclesiology of Vatican II, namely, that the Church is not centered on itself but focused on the people going out into the world. Church, i.e., the People of God, will celebrate the presence and organization of lay men and lay women in Brazil with the intent for this celebration to deepen their identity, vocation, spirituality and mission. It will also support their witness to Jesus Christ and His Kingdom in society.

The first goal of the Year of the Laity is to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Ordinary Synod on the laity (held in 1987) and the 30th anniversary of the publication of the Apostolic Exhortation Christi Fideles Laici by Pope John Paul II on the vocation and mission of the laity in the Church and in the world (1988). Coming to this understanding was controversial between the bishops and lay people because originally it was going to be a study of the role of lay people inside the Church. The commission insisted that the year of the laity be about the church out in the street and what the lay people can accomplish. They want it to be understood that the people are the protagonists and not the servants of the bishops.
They are their own agents. This year of the laity is about the role of the laity as equal members of the baptized along with the ordained.

The second objective is to promote the study and practice of the new document created for this year, “Lay men and lay women in the Church and Society” to have people develop teams in their dioceses to read and understand this document and develop practical steps they can take outside the Church. They will also study other documents of the Magisterium, especially from Pope Francis, on the Laity.

The third objective is to help lay Christian men and women understand that they have an equally important role inside the church as well as outside the Church. This should result in lay people being heard in the Church.

May you encourage your pastor and bishop to support this initiative as an initiative for the global Church. Cardinal Ferrel of the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life has received request from the Conference of Catholic Bishops of Brazil and considering seriously the proposal as an initiative for the global Church.

Family Reflection: Psalm 85:9, 10, 11-12, 13-14

Share ways kindness and truth have met in your lives. How can truth be more balanced in your family life?

Prayer:
From USCCB website:
http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/prayers-and-devotions/prayers/prayer-for-charity-in-truth.cfm

Prayer For Charity In Truth

Father, your truth is made known in your Word.
Guide us to seek the truth of the human person.
Teach us the way to love because you are Love.
Jesus, you embody Love and Truth.
Help us to recognize your face in the poor.
Enable us to live out our vocation to bring love and justice to your people.
Holy Spirit, you inspire us to transform our world.
Empower us to seek the common good for all persons.
Give us a spirit of solidarity and make us one human family.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

This prayer is based on Pope Benedict XVI’s 2009 encyclical, Caritas in Veritate (Charity in Truth)

Blogs to Visit:
http://marynow.wordpress.com/
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.
http://idocst.wordpress.com/
How we do Catholic Social Teaching.
https://csmresources.wordpress.com/
Creation sustainability ministry resources in the spirit of the St Francis Pledge.
https://smrep.wordpress.com/
Social Ministry Resources Engaging Parishes: Monthly and liturgical seasons resources for use with parish websites, bulletins and newsletters

Involvement Opportunities
List one or two upcoming events, legislative action alerts or social justice websites

By Barb Born August 7, 2017 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.