Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary Reflection January 24, 2021

January 24, 2021: Third Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Catholic Social Teaching: Call to Family Community and Participation 

Let us pause a moment on this experience of meeting Christ who calls us to remain with Him. Each one of God’s calls is an initiative of His love. He is the one who always takes the initiative. He calls you. God calls to life, He calls to faith, and He calls to a particular state in life: “I want you here”. God’s first call is to life, through which He makes us persons; it is an individual call because God does not make things in series. Then God calls us to faith and to become part of His family as children of God. Lastly, God calls us to a particular state in life: to give of ourselves on the path of matrimony, or that of the priesthood or the consecrated life. They are different ways of realizing God’s design that He has for each one of us that is always a design of love. But God calls always. And the greatest joy for every believer is to respond to that call, offering one’s entire being to the service of God and the brothers and sisters.  Pope Francis Angelus January 17, 2021

http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/angelus/2021/documents/papa-francesco_angelus_20210117.html

Readings 

First Reading: Jonah 3:1-5, 10

Psalm: 25: 4-5, 6-7, 8-9

Second Reading: 1st Corinthians 7:29-31

Gospel: Mark 1:14-20

Catechism of the Catholic Church

All Christ’s faithful are to “direct their affections rightly, lest they be hindered in their pursuit of perfect charity by the use of worldly things and by an adherence to riches which is contrary to the spirit of evangelical poverty.” (2545) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

Mark 1:15

The Church, the community of those who have been brought together by the Risen Christ and who have set out to follow him, is “the sign and the safeguard of the transcendent dimension of the human person”. She is “in Christ a kind of sacrament — a sign and instrument, that is, of communion with God and of unity among all men”.  Her mission is that of proclaiming and communicating the salvation wrought in Jesus Christ, which he calls “the Kingdom of God” (Mk 1:15), that is, communion with God and among men. The goal of salvation, the Kingdom of God embraces all people and is fully realized beyond history, in God. The Church has received “the mission of proclaiming and establishing among all peoples the Kingdom of Christ and of God, and she is, on earth, the seed and the beginning of that Kingdom”. (49)

1st Corinthians 7:31

The human person cannot and must not be manipulated by social, economic or political structures, because every person has the freedom to direct himself towards his ultimate end. On the other hand, every cultural, social, economic and political accomplishment, in which the social nature of the person and his activity of transforming the universe are brought about in history, must always be considered also in the context of its relative and provisional reality, because “the form of this world is passing away” (1 Cor 7:31). We can speak here of an eschatological relativity, in the sense that man and the world are moving towards their end, which is the fulfillment of their destiny in God; we can also speak of a theological relativity, insofar as the gift of God, by which the definitive destiny of humanity and of creation will be attained, is infinitely greater than human possibilities and expectations. Any totalitarian vision of society and the State, and any purely intra-worldly ideology of progress are contrary to the integral truth of the human person and to God’s plan in history. (48)

The awareness that “the form of this world is passing away” (1 Cor 7:31) is not an exoneration from being involved in the world, and even less from work (cf. 2 Thes 3:7-15), which is an integral part of the human condition, although not the only purpose of life. No Christian, in light of the fact that he belongs to a united and fraternal community, should feel that he has the right not to work and to live at the expense of others (cf. 2 Thes 3:6-12). Rather, all are charged by the Apostle Paul to make it a point of honour to work with their own hands, so as to “be dependent on nobody” (1 Thes 4:12), and to practise a solidarity which is also material by sharing the fruits of their labour with “those in need” (Eph 4:28). Saint James defends the trampled rights of workers: “Behold, the wages of the labourers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, cry out; and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts” (Jas 5:4). Believers are to undertake their work in the style of Christ and make it an occasion for Christian witness, commanding “the respect of outsiders” (1 Thes 4:12). (264)

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 

Jesus asks us to repent, as He asked the first disciples. How do you understand repentance?  An understanding framed by our perception of God.  Empowering or oppressive paradigms to liberate or shove into submission.  Repentance literally expresses dedication of oneself to amendment of one’s life.  A change of one’s mind and heart with a desire to partake in fulfillment of God’s promise.  To view repentance not as a specific point in time at a particular place,  but continually evolving understanding of God’s desire for our participation in God’s kingdom. The synergy of God’s will fulfilled in the unfolding of humanity’s collaboration.  In a culture when people sought out sages to study under,  Jesus unraveled searching with an invitation to depose professional livelihood to seek the core of what matters.  Had the initial disciples ever discerned the meaning of their lives or just repetitively hauled fish in and out of the boats?  What was the magnetism of Jesus’ persuasion to in an instant  they leave the security and sensibility of the world behind?  Just as their nets were tattered and torn and in need of mending, so were their lives  Casting nets into the sea was never a certainty and something in the despair of ministry the disciples would return to, a lingering grasp to the past but never the ultimate fulfillment.  For the Lord would teach them and teaches us His ways.  Not an indoctrination, dragging along into submission,  but guiding to the truth where the awareness of sin is not condemnation but liberation with the sincerity of our repentance.  A process where humility blossoms from seeing Divine providence guide our experiences, in a foundational and strategic matrix to assure us of a journey to justice beyond the work of our own endeavors. The need to rebound from questioning like Jonah and take out for wherever the Lord sends us to do His bidding.  We may seem like fish out of water in the immensity of the challenge,  but our actions and proclamations are not without impact when we focus on what message the Lord asks us to share.  A voice of persuasion not with human eloquence, but substance infused by the Spirit.  Where people heed, pause and reflect to perpetuate the Divine cycle of repentance leads to fostering belief.  Not the need personally to cover every byway, but letting the actions of the Spirit magnify our human endeavors. Our failure to participate rests as an expression of our unbelief, a lack of trust in God’s guidance, a dismissal of hope, an unwillingness to live as a disciple and instead just exist in repetitive motions of what ever proverbial fish we haul in and take out of our boats.

The world we know a day ago, a week ago, a month ago, a year ago, a decade ago is not the same world as today.  Grasping that reality,  in the continual passing of the old we receptively experience the newness of life Jesus invites us to.  To not dig deeper ruts from spinning futilely in the same place, but embrace the ever emerging path Jesus teaches us to follow, for He is our Savior.  Will we live like He is?

Individual Reflection:

January 27th is International Holocaust Remembrance Day.  As we remember the Holocaust, may we be cognizant of people victimized today and not watch their plight in complicity of silence

https://www.un.org/en/holocaustremembrance/

https://www.un.org/en/holocaustremembrance/2021/calendar2021.shtml

Family Reflection: Mark 1:14-20

January is Poverty Awareness Month.  Learn how poverty disproportionately impacts the elderly and how can your family help address these issues?

https://www.usccb.org/resources/PAM%202021%20daily%20calendar.pdf

Prayer:

January 25th is the Feast of the Conversion of St Paul. Prayerfully reflect in thanksgiving about your conversion.  How has your repentance called you to be a disciple?

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  January 21, 2021 St Agnes Pray for us The reflection maybe used i

Fifth Sunday of Easter Lectionary Reflection May 10, 2020

 

May 10, 2020: Fifth Sunday of Easter

 

Catholic Social Teaching: Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

May 15ht is the memorial for St Isidore, a farmworker.  He faithfully attended daily mass and spent time before the Blessed Sacrament.  Along with his wife, also a saint, helped their neighbors and worked with people living in need.  May St Isidore be a model for our lives, as living stones.  

https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-isidore-the-farmer/

https://catholicrurallife.org/resources/spiritual/isidore-and-maria-patron-saints-of-farmers/

 

Readings 

First Reading: Acts 6:1-7

Psalm: 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-19

Second Reading: 1st Peter 2:4-9

Gospel: John 14:1-12

 

Catechism of the Catholic Church

Christ, high priest and unique mediator, has made of the Church “a kingdom, priests for his God and Father.” The whole community of believers is, as such, priestly. The faithful exercise their baptismal priesthood through their participation, each according to his own vocation, in Christ’s mission as priest, prophet, and king. Through the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation the faithful are “consecrated to be . . . a holy priesthood.” (1546)  From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Fifth Sunday of Easter, Cycle A

 

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

John 14:6

The Church moves further into the Third Millennium of the Christian era as a pilgrim people, guided by Christ, the “great Shepherd” (Heb 13:20). He is the “Holy Door” (cf. Jn 10:9) through which we passed during the Great Jubilee of the year 2000[1]. Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life (cf. Jn 14:6): contemplating the Lord’s face, we confirm our faith and our hope in him, the one Saviour and goal of history.

The Church continues to speak to all people and all nations, for it is only in the name of Christ that salvation is given to men and women. Salvation, which the Lord Jesus obtained “at a price” (1 Cor 6:20; cf. 1 Pet 1:18-19), is achieved in the new life that awaits the righteous after death, but it also permeates this world in the realities of the economy and labour, of technology and communications, of society and politics, of the international community and the relations among cultures and peoples. “Jesus came to bring integral salvation, one which embraces the whole person and all mankind, and opens up the wondrous prospect of divine filiation”.  (1)

Fostering a social and political culture inspired by the Gospel must be an area of particular importance for the lay faithful. Recent history has shown the weakness and radical failure of commonly held cultural perspectives that prevailed for a long time, especially on the social and political levels. In this area, particularly in the decades following the Second World War, Catholics in different countries have been involved at high levels, which shows with ever greater clarity today the consistency of their inspiration and of their heritage of values. The social and political involvement of Catholics, in fact, has never been limited to the mere transformation of structures, because this involvement takes place at the foundations of a culture that receives and listens to the reasoning made by faith and morality, including them as the basis and goal of concrete planning. When this awareness is lacking, Catholics themselves are condemned to cultural dispersion and their proposals are rendered insufficient and limited. An urgent priority today is also found in the need to present the patrimony of Catholic tradition, its values and content, and the entire spiritual, intellectual and moral heritage of Catholicism, in culturally up-to-date terms. Faith in Jesus Christ, who described himself as “the way and the truth and the life” (Jn 14:6), prompts Christians to commit themselves with firm and ever new resolve to building a social and political culture inspired by the Gospel.  (555)

John 14:9

The benevolence and mercy that inspire God’s actions and provide the key for understanding them become so very much closer to man that they take on the traits of the man Jesus, the Word made flesh. In the Gospel of Saint Luke, Jesus describes his messianic ministry with the words of Isaiah which recall the prophetic significance of the jubilee: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach the good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord” (Lk 4:18-19; cf. Is 61:1-2). Jesus therefore places himself on the frontline of fulfillment, not only because he fulfills what was promised and what was awaited by Israel, but also in the deeper sense that in him the decisive event of the history of God with mankind is fulfilled. He proclaims: “He who has seen me has seen the Father” (Jn 14:9). Jesus, in other words, is the tangible and definitive manifestation of how God acts towards men and women. (28)

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 do we make ourselves a living stone?  The stones the Lord asks us to become in following His example as the cornerstone.  Big stones, round stones, oblong stones, jagged stones, cracked stones, stones with varying hues, porous stones, stones infused with various elements, stones formed by heat, molded by pressure. Stones as a metaphor, but the physical reality of our lives. Extensive differences, a wealth of diversity, asked by the Lord to come together and build His house.  For each stone’s uniqueness is precisely why they are needed, to fill a void, act as support, bridge a gap.  Without each stone, the house of the Lord is incomplete in building a spiritual house here and now and the Father’s house for eternity, complete with many dwelling places to accommodate the array of stones.  Without realizing each stone has a place, people stumble or fall from feeling inadequate, unimportant, disconnected from the Lord.  The lack of trusting in His words that He is the way, the truth and the life for all humanity and instead relying on themselves or gods molded by human hands.  The refusal of the personal invitation from knowing Jesus to know the Father and the blessing from the Trinity’s indwelling in our lives.  The place where God, our Creator, knows us better than we know ourselves, where Jesus works thru us to manifest His presence in the world and the Holy Spirit enflames faith.  For as Jesus went to the Father, He did not leave His apostles and all future generations to flounder in a spiritual abyss, but acclaims the exhortation to do the works He did and even greater.  Whatever type stone we are in the Lord’s house, we place our trust in Him by giving thanks, doing works grounded in justice, kindness and the right for He delivers us from spiritual death and preserves us when we hunger and thirst for His ways.  Jesus, the perfection of love, trusts us to do His work.  As He is faithful 24/7, we must let that love reverberate back to Him by our faithfulness 24/7.  For living as His disciples, each as a living, unique stone, must be more than a token of acknowledging faith, but let ourselves, called out of darkness into His wonderful light, be built into His spiritual house.  

 

Individual Reflection: Acts 6:1-7

This Scripture passage talks about the institution of deacons in the Church.  Learn about the role of women as deacons in the early Church and in supporting tradition in our Church, the call to reinstate women deacons to serve our Church today:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4xsw6Lbt-k

 

Family Reflection:

May 13th is the memorial of Our Lady of Fatima.  As a family pray the rosary to celebrate this day.

 

Prayer: Prayerfully watch the video of  The Way, The Truth and The Life song by Bob Hurd

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Fvwd9Y6xlg

 

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 1, 2020,  St Joseph, The Worker Pray for us. The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Second Sunday of Lent Lectionary Reflection March 8, 2020

 

March 8, 2020: Second Sunday of Lent

 

Catholic Social Teaching:

Pope Francis’ homilies on the Transfiguration

http://www.popefrancishomilies.com/transfiguration

 

Readings 

First Reading: Genesis 12:1-4a

Psalm: 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22

Second Reading: 2nd Timothy 1:8b-10

Gospel: Matthew 17:1-9

 

Catechism of the Catholic Church

On the threshold of the public life: the baptism; on the threshold of the Passover: the Transfiguration. Jesus’ baptism proclaimed “the mystery of the first regeneration”, namely, our Baptism; the Transfiguration “is the sacrament of the second regeneration”: our own Resurrection.  From now on we share in the Lord’s Resurrection through the Spirit who acts in the sacraments of the Body of Christ. The Transfiguration gives us a foretaste of Christ’s glorious coming, when he “will change our lowly body to be like his glorious body.” But it also recalls that “it is through many persecutions that we must enter the kingdom of God”:

Peter did not yet understand this when he wanted to remain with Christ on the mountain. It has been reserved for you, Peter, but for after death. For now, Jesus says: “Go down to toil on earth, to serve on earth, to be scorned and crucified on earth. Life goes down to be killed; Bread goes down to suffer hunger; the Way goes down to be exhausted on his journey; the Spring goes down to suffer thirst; and you refuse to suffer?” (556) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Second Sunday of Lent, Cycle A

 

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:  No references 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 

Where do the mountain top experiences of our lives take us?  Do we linger in the exhilaration but tentative to let courage overtake complacency from spiritual comfort?  A bliss of knowing the Divine more intimately and clearly, but ignoring the tug to journey into the unsettling, confounding reality of humanity.  The place where courage to listen to God’s beloved Son overtakes personal destiny.  The spiritual touch encompassed on the mountain top prompting us to arise without fear.  A place of clarity where other points of departure vanish and only the path of following Jesus remains.  The calling of us to not waste the mountain top experience in personal solace, but used for the blessing of others and ourselves.  The reality that the manifestation of the law and prophets is fully fulfilled in Jesus. We place our trust in Him and serve prioritizing justice and right, for that is what He loves.  

 

Individual Reflection:Matthew 17:1-9

https://sites.google.com/a/maryknoll.us/maryknoll-mission-education-promotion/home/resources/mission-spirituality/lent-2020

 

Family Reflection:Psalm 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22

Apply for a Catholic Climate Project $1000 grant to help your parish live the message of Laudato Sí

https://www.catholicclimateproject.org/resources/grant-application

 

Prayer: Mediate on the song Transfigure Us, O Lord by Bob Hurd

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5SQG4cX8vw

 

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  March 6, 2020 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary Reflection January 26, 2020

January 26, 2020:Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Catholic Social Teaching: Solidarity

The message of peace is not about a negotiated settlement but rather the conviction that the unity brought by the Spirit can harmonize every diversity. It overcomes every conflict by creating a new and promising synthesis. Diversity is a beautiful thing when it can constantly enter into a process of reconciliation and seal a sort of cultural covenant resulting in a “reconciled diversity”. ..(230) Joy of the Gospel, Pope Francis

 

Readings 

First Reading: Isaiah 8:23-9:3

Psalm: 27:1, 4, 13-14

Second Reading: 1st Corinthians 1:10-13, 17

Gospel:Matthew 4:12-23

 

Catechism of the Catholic Church

Lay people also fulfill their prophetic mission by evangelization, “that is, the proclamation of Christ by word and the testimony of life.” For lay people, “this evangelization . . . acquires a specific property and peculiar efficacy because it is accomplished in the ordinary circumstances of the world.”

This witness of life, however, is not the sole element in the apostolate; the true apostle is on the lookout for occasions of announcing Christ by word, either to unbelievers . . . or to the faithful. (905) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the, Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle A

 

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church: No references 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 

Jesus went around all of Galilee teaching, proclaiming and curing.  He was not selective, exclusive, calculating who he would interact with.  A personification ofGod’s inclusiveness.  When we raise our eyes and look around our parishes, our Church do we see the welcome of inclusiveness or the judgment of exclusion.  As “Church”, do we venture forth beyond the end of the parking lot, the other side of the street to spiritually envision that our “Church” would be dynamically vibrant if we lived like we fully understood the word “all”?With divisions created by a us and them mentality, Church fails to be united in same mind and purpose.  Whether divisions exist from rivalries or fear of “others”, the end result is a failure to prioritize our belonging to Christ.  A subtle robbing the cross of its meaning places personal priorities ahead of the basis of salvation.  We must be courageous to live with the embodiment of all.  The ones to welcome everyone, speak out when injustice of exclusion perks factions.  With the Lord as our life’s refuge, whom should we be afraid of?  If we desire to dwell in the house of the Lord all the day of our lives, let us trust we have the faith to desire the doors are wide open, without gatekeepers denying entry to some sisters and brothers, so seats are empty, voices and wisdom of life silenced.  For then we walk in darkness due to the pettiness of a few, gloom rests above the assembled, joy stymied and yoke of judgment burdens souls.  We must smash attempts to make a hypocrisy of the Gospel by inserting human precepts over the words and witness of the Lord.  Not dismantling divisiveness by verbal or physical violence, as in the day of Midian, but the witness of collaboration, standing with the excluded, not retreating from humanity to dismiss attempts to negate the proclamation of all, the fullness of its meaning in our Church, by trusting in the fidelity of the Lord.

 

Individual Reflection:1st Corinthians 1:10-13, 17

January 26th is the feast day of Its Timothy and Titus, disciples of St Paul.  This week read the letters St Paul wrote to Its Timothy and Titus articulating challenges faced in the early Church.  What insights do they give you to address challenges in the Church today?

 

Family Reflection:  Matthew 4:12-23

February 2nd is the Presentation of the Lord.  Did you celebrate Epiphany with Kings Bread?  If so, who will prepare tamales for the celebration on February 2nd?

https://www.epicureanexpats.com/making-tamales-on-tamale-day/

 

Prayer: For unity

http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/racism/upload/16-056-prayer-for-peace-prayer-card.pdf

 

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  January 17, 2020 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Third Sunday of Advent Lectionary Reflection: December 15, 2019

 

December 15, 2019: Third Sunday of Advent

 

Catholic Social Teaching: Option for the Poor and Vulnerable

Read Pope Francis’ thoughts on Gaudet Sunday: Joy, Prayer and Thanksgiving to give humanity dignity and freedom

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2017-12/pope-francis-prays-angelus-on-gaudete-sunday.html

 

Readings 

First Reading: Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10

Psalm: 146:6-7, 8-9, 9-10

Second Reading: James 5:7-10

Gospel:Matthew 11:2-11

 

Catechism of the Catholic Church

St. John the Baptist is the Lord’s immediate precursor or forerunner, sent to prepare his way. “Prophet of the Most High”, John surpasses all the prophets, of whom he is the last.  He inaugurates the Gospel, already from his mother’s womb welcomes the coming of Christ, and rejoices in being “the friend of the bridegroom”, whom he points out as “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world”.  Going before Jesus “in the spirit and power of Elijah”, John bears witness to Christ in his preaching, by his Baptism of conversion, and through his martyrdom. (523) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the, Third Sunday of Advent Cycle A

 

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

Matthew 11:5

Human misery is a clear sign of man’s natural condition of frailty and of his need for salvation. Christ the Saviour showed compassion in this regard, identifying himself with the “least” among men (cf. Mt 25:40,45). “It is by what they have done for the poor that Jesus Christ will recognize his chosen ones. When ‘the poor have the good news preached to them’ (Mt 11:5), it is a sign of Christ’s presence”.

Jesus says: “You always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me” (Mt 26:11; cf. Mk 14:7; Jn 12:8). He makes this statement not to contrast the attention due to him with service of the poor. Christian realism, while appreciating on the one hand the praiseworthy efforts being made to defeat poverty, is cautious on the other hand regarding ideological positions and Messianistic beliefs that sustain the illusion that it is possible to eliminate the problem of poverty completely from this world. This will happen only upon Christ’s return, when he will be with us once more, for ever. In the meantime, the poor remain entrusted to us and it is this responsibility upon which we shall be judged at the end of time (cf. Mt 25:31-46): “Our Lord warns us that we shall be separated from him if we fail to meet the serious needs of the poor and the little ones who are his brethren”. (183)

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 

Jesus did not reply to the question posed by the disciples of John the Baptist, if they should turn to Jesus or look for another messiah, by quoting theology, stating his credentials or mandating they bow to Him.  He told them to tell John of what they heard and saw. The transformation of physical and spiritual healing.  Those physically and spiritually blind seeing the light.  The lame in body and spirit walking in the truth.  Lepers afflicted and searching cleansed in flesh and soul.  Deafness to sound and the Word opened to not struggle to understand anymore.  Dead in the tomb and dead to life raised to a newness of life.  The poor hearing the goodness proclaimed of their eternal riches.  For the Messiah brought transformative change void of earthly titles, so there was no question of people needing to look any further.  A prophetic witness modeled by John the Baptist, the last and greatest prophet, who came not in royal dress, living in a palace, but a prophetic voice among the people.  

As Advent reaches the mid-point, we must continue patiently waiting for the celebration of the coming of the Messiah.  Not a time for revelry, getting lost pursuing the dazzle, but ponder in firm resolve to see the Messiah at work in our world today.  Just as He works to transform our heart, He asks us to continue His transformative work, by securing justice for the oppressed, giving food to the hungry, helping set captives free, sustaining the fatherless and widows.  Allowing His words  reach the least in society through the hands and hearts of those steeped in His mercy.  For the Lord comes to save us from ourselves, as we serve others.  An experience of rejoicing to see those defined as weak by society gain voice and trust to fear not ever again.  

 

Individual Reflection: Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10

Plan to cook some Advent and Christmas season recipes:

https://catholiccuisine.blogspot.com/2011/12/recipes-for-december-month-dedicated-to.html

 

Family Reflection: Matthew 11:2-11

The Third Sunday of Advent is know as Gaudete Sunday. A time to rejoice and celebrate with joy.  How can the joy in your family secure justice for the oppressed, give food to the hungry, set captives free and sustain the fatherless and widows? 

 

Prayer: Sing some joyful music in the spirit of Advent’s message of Jesus’ coming:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijG0mLyHKPQ

 

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  December 1, 2019 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary Reflection November 3, 2019

November 3, 2019: Thirty-first  Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Catholic Social Teaching: Solidarity

Read Pope Francis’ World Day of the Poor message for November 17th, 2019

English

https://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/poveri/documents/papa-francesco_20190613_messaggio-iii-giornatamondiale-poveri-2019.html

Spanish

https://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/es/messages/poveri/documents/papa-francesco_20190613_messaggio-iii-giornatamondiale-poveri-2019.html

 

Readings 

First Reading: Wisdom 11:22-12:2

Psalm: 145: 1-2, 8-9, 10-11, 13-14

Second Reading: 2nd Thessalonians 1:11-2:2

Gospel: Luke 19:1-10

 

Catechism of the Catholic Church

Jesus calls to conversion. This call is an essential part of the proclamation of the kingdom: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the gospel.”  In the Church’s preaching this call is addressed first to those who do not yet know Christ and his Gospel. Also, Baptism is the principal place for the first and fundamental conversion. It is by faith in the Gospel and by Baptism that one renounces evil and gains salvation, that is, the forgiveness of all sins and the gift of new life. (1427)

From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Thirty-first 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 

Conversion exists in a paradox of trust.  Jesus trusts us with faith, even though we are not perfect in our human nature.  Little by little we abandon our transgressions and believe more deeply, more resolutely in our King and our God.  The Divine trust radiates from His love in all created things, imbedded with His imperishable Spirit.  A look with a deep gaze beyond transgressions to the goodness of humanity.  Will we look beyond people’s imperfections to focus on their God infused goodness and stop chipping away at their dignity?  Jesus did that with Zacchaeus to put aside the stigma of a tax collector.  Short in stature, not just physically, but literally.  Jesus trusted Him to call out his name not in callous disdain, but in seeking a trusting relationship.  The conversion of coming together at table and residing in his home.  A joyful encounter and deep conversion beyond perched in a tree.  A reminder that conversion leads beyond a change of heart and mind to manifest in action.  A shedding of personal possessions to give to those in need.  Making restitution for past injustices.  Zacchaeus trusted Jesus to seek conversion a a profoundly deep level.  Jesus blessed Zacchaeus with salvation.  An affirmation of salvation is for all humanity rooted in ancestral lineage of Abraham, inferring for all people.  For Jesus seeks the lost, making himself present, never discounting an opportunity and trusting in their receptivity for salvation.  Will we be instruments befriending conversion in the world, in thanksgiving for the trust Jesus places in us through faith? We must not let stone throwing, labeling keep us from affirming our conversion and trusting relationship with Jesus that leads to affirmation by our actions.  For to discount others, shy them away from sacramental grace only further distances them from God and the curiosity to join the procession, climb the proverbial tree for a better view and slam the door of the Church in their face, when Jesus wants it wide open.  The understanding that faith is not to be stored securely within, but trusting in our conversion to let faith be forth in the world, not hidden, void of interaction with all created things.   

 

Individual Reflection:

How can you eat to lower your carbon footprint to care for creation?  Visit Meals 4 the Planet:

https://meals4planet.org/meals-4-planet-recipes/

 

Family Reflection:

November 17th is World Day of the Poor.  What resource can you share with your parish to raise awareness of global poverty?  What action will you take to stand in solidarity?

https://www.crs.org/get-involved/learn/resource-center/world-day-poor-resources

 

Prayer:

https://www.crs.org/sites/default/files/lead_the_way_action_toolkit.pdf

Almighty God,

Millions of our brothers and sisters are on the move around the world, Not by choice, but by desperation.

We encounter their stories in the news

And their faces in members of our own communities.

We pray that we may lead the way to bring about God’s vision of peace and justice to all,

And hope and love to those on the move near and far.

For those forced to flee violence, We pray they find safety.

For those seeking economic opportunity, We pray they find secure livelihoods.

For those trying to support and protect their families, We pray they find communities to embrace them.

For those searching for peace and hope, We pray that we may be bearers of

The Good News.

We are called to be prophetic advocates in this world.

To call out injustice and be heralds of  Truth and Love.

We pray that all migrants, refugees and displaced persons

May find safe and loving communities

And the opportunity to thrive.

And we pray that we may have the courage to stand and act

In defense of human dignity for all our brothers and sisters in need.

Mary, Queen of Peace, pray for us. 

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  October 31, 2019  The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary Reflection August 11, 2019

August 11, 2019: Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 

Catholic Social Teaching: Life and Dignity of the Human Person

The complete fulfillment of the human person, achieved in Christ through the gift of the Spirit, develops in history and is mediated by personal relationships with other people, relationships that in turn reach perfection thanks to the commitment made to improve the world, in justice and peace. Human activity in history is of itself significant and effective for the definitive establishment of the Kingdom, although this remains a free gift of God, completely transcendent. Such activity, when it respects the objective order of temporal reality and is enlightened by truth and love, becomes an instrument for making justice and peace ever more fully and integrally present, and anticipates in our own day the promised Kingdom… (58) Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church

 

Readings 

First Reading: Wisdom 18:6-9

Psalm: 33:1, 12, 18-19, 20-22

Second Reading: Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19

Gospel: Luke 12:32-48

 

Catechism of the Catholic Church

In Jesus “the Kingdom of God is at hand.” He calls his hearers to conversion and faith, but also to watchfulness. In prayer the disciple keeps watch, attentive to Him Who Is and Him Who Comes, in memory of his first coming in the lowliness of the flesh, and in the hope of his second coming in glory.  In communion with their Master, the disciples’ prayer is a battle; only by keeping watch in prayer can one avoid falling into temptation.  (2612) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the, Nineteenth 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 

Do we act like we understand, trust, believe, have faith that the Father is PLEASED to give us the Kingdom?  The freedom to transcend miser mode to freely give alms, not grasping to every possession like a hoarding hyena howling revelry over the status of one’s means.  The money bags we carry must be resilient fibers to proverbially harbor incomprehensible treasures inaccessible from theft of personal  property or destroyable by greed, corruption and irresponsible actions.  A process of constant vigilance for the presence of the Lord, with our ever waiting, listening, discussing, praying.  Always, at all times, not just at an appointed hour.  The second or third watch, well into the night, awaiting the dawn while most are asleep, unprepared to welcome the honored guest, for they slumber.  Yet the prudent are waiting.  Not the time to goof off, act belligerent, as if no one is watching.  Entrusted with the gift of faith, the Lord calls us to act in a worthy manner, respectful, thankful to God and others of the call we received to serve within the web of Divine relationship.  

God waits mercifully, patiently for our embrace with lavish gifts.  Once experienced, but if we withdraw leaves an indefinable aura  of broken relational fidelity only plausible in human frailty, never by Divine abandonment.  A divide of deeper revelation of who we should be then before the initial embrace of God in one’s life.  For in God’s love for us, He entrusts us with much to share from what we have been given, much love as an expression of how He loves us and to act as if we believe.  Not second guesses to God, but with fidelity to the call, living with courage in the knowledge of our faith.  Courage demanding vigilance, not withdrawn indecisive action with muted mouths baffled by the world.  A perseverance with hope, feeling blessed to be people the Lord acknowledges as followers of His ways in trustworthy belief even when sojourning in unfathomable territory, in unexplainable circumstances, alien to human minds, God does not hesitate to build an eternal homeland or ashamed in intimacy that we call Him Father.  For to live in piety and overt reverence hastens to distance us from God, creating a divide instead of forming unity we must manifest in the world.

I

ndividual Reflection: Psalm 33:1, 12, 18-19, 20-22

This document is proposed also to the brethren of other Churches and Ecclesial Communities, to the followers of other religions, as well as to all people of good will who are committed to serving the common good: may they receive it as the fruit of a universal human experience marked by countless signs of the presence of God’s Spirit. It is a treasury of things old and new (cf. Mt 13:52), which the Church wishes to share, in thanksgiving to God, from whom comes “every good endowment and ever perfect gift” (Jas 1:17). It is a sign of hope in the fact that religions and cultures today show openness to dialogue and sense the urgent need to join forces in promoting justice, fraternity, peace and the growth of the human person.

The Catholic Church joins her own commitment to that made in the social field by other Churches and Ecclesial Communities, whether at the level of doctrinal reflection or at the practical level. Together with them, the Catholic Church is convinced that from the common heritage of social teachings preserved by the living tradition of the people of God there will come motivations and orientations for an ever closer cooperation in the promotion of justice and peace. (12) Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church

How can you encourage your parish community to collaborate with other faith traditions on social ministry promoting justice and peace to build up  the kingdom of God?

 

Family Reflection: Luke 12:32-48

When buying school supplies, buy a backpack and supplies to share with another student.

 

Prayer: August 15th is the Feast of the Assumption of Mary

Share in Mary’s gladness

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqZbJ3epNh8

 

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, 2019 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time: June 10, 2018

June 10, 2018: Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Catholic Social Teaching: Life and Dignity of the Human Person

“God shows forth his almighty power by converting us from our sins and restoring us to his friendship by grace…”  (277) Catechism of the Catholic Church

Readings 

First Reading: Genesis 3:9-15

Psalm: 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8

Second Reading: 2nd Corinthians 4:13-5:1

Gospel: Mark 3:20-35

Catechism of the Catholic Church

The harmony in which they had found themselves, thanks to original justice, is now destroyed: the control of the soul’s spiritual faculties over the body is shattered; the union of man and woman becomes subject to tensions, their relations henceforth marked by lust and domination. Harmony with creation is broken: visible creation has become alien and hostile to man. Because of man, creation is now subject “to its bondage to decay”.  Finally, the consequence explicitly foretold for this disobedience will come true: man will “return to the ground”,²⁸⁵ for out of it he was taken. Death makes its entrance into human history. (400) From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Tenth Sunday of Ordinary Time, Cycle B

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

Genesis 3:12

At the root of personal and social divisions, which in differing degrees offend the value and dignity of the human person, there is a wound which is present in man’s inmost self. “In the light of faith we call it sin: beginning with original sin, which all of us bear from birth as an inheritance from our first parents, to the sin which each one of us commits when we abuse our own freedom”. The consequences of sin, insofar as it is an act of separation from God, are alienation, that is, the separation of man not only from God but also from himself, from other men and from the world around him. “Man’s rupture with God leads tragically to divisions between brothers. In the description of the ‘first sin’, the rupture with Yahweh simultaneously breaks the bond of friendship that had united the human family. Thus the subsequent pages of Genesis show us the man and the woman as it were pointing an accusing finger at each other (cf. Gen. 3:12). Later we have brother hating brother and finally taking his brother’s life (cf. Gen 4:2-16). According to the Babel story, the result of sin is the shattering of the human family, already begun with the first sin and now reaching its most extreme form on the social level”[225]. Reflecting on the mystery of sin, we cannot fail to take into consideration this tragic connection between cause and effect. (116)

2nd Corinthians 5:1-2

God’s promise and Jesus Christ’s resurrection raise in Christians the well-founded hope that a new and eternal dwelling place is prepared for every human person, a new earth where justice abides (cf. 2 Cor 5:1-2; 2 Pet 3:13). “Then, with death conquered, the children of God will be raised in Christ and what was sown in weakness and corruption will be clothed in incorruptibility: charity and its works will remain and all of creation, which God made for man, will be set free from its bondage to vanity”.  This hope, rather than weaken, must instead strengthen concern for the work that is needed in the present reality. (56)

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

Who do we try to blame for our transgressions.  We synthetically absolve ourselves by making another a scapegoat.  An attempt to mitigate punishment and guilt by sliding the burden along.  At the root of our manipulation lays fear.  What will people say?  What trouble will this cause?  Instead, we should focus on the words of the Psalmist, “With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.”  Our fleeing, hiding or assuming a posture of pseudo innocence should give way to unflinchingly bare the nakedness of our soul before God.  Realizing the Lord hears our contrite voice with attentive ears rendering forgiveness, He clothes us with grace.  Fear evaporates as trust ground our soul in the Divine.  Words inaudible,  but more present than our physical surroundings.  Redeeming words capable of moving us beyond any inequities to a place where we do not flee God, but scurry towards His loving embrace.  A profound realization that our past does not define who we are today.  For only in this precious moment of time ,with acknowledgement of our frailties, we resolve to absorb grace to fill empty crevasses of discontent, arrogance and fear.  God desires to talk with us, calling to our attention the goodness of creation while we attempt to defile reality in our narrow perception of God.  The defining foundational question rests in resolving do we believe and live like we are forgiven.  Not a trick question or multiple choice, but either yes or no.  To live with fear renders a NO, while letting mercy grasp the marrow of our being reverberates a resounding YES we speak in living affirmation with overflowing thanksgiving for the glory of God.  Day by day, constantly renewing us to an eternal unseen reality.  Some may view this as cavalier, a lack of serious piety or downright crazy, but God wills we seek forgiveness, the blessings of peace and comfort of the Holy Spirit.  For in doing the will of God, we are unified as the family of God.  

Individual Reflection: Psalm 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8

Learn about the Forgiveness Project:  https://www.theforgivenessproject.com

How can you encourage forgiveness in your community to mitigate the culture of violence and scapegoating??

Family Reflection: Mark 3:20-35

Learn about integrating Peace Builders into your school:  http://www.peacebuilders.com

Prayer: Dialogue in prayer this week about TRUST

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 30, 2018 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary Reflection February 12, 2017

February 12, 2017: Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Catholic Social Teaching: Call to Family Community and Participation

Love is at the Service of Others
The next word that Paul uses is chrestéuetai. The word is used only here in the entire Bible. It is derived from chrestós: a good person, one who shows his goodness by his deeds. Here, in strict parallelism with the preceding verb, it serves as a complement. Paul wants to make it clear that “patience” is not a completely passive attitude, but one accompanied by activity, by a dynamic and creative interaction with others. The word indicates that love bene ts and helps others. For this reason it is translated as “kind”; love is ever ready to be of assistance. (93)

Throughout the text, it is clear that Paul wants to stress that love is more than a mere feel- ing. Rather, it should be understood along the lines of the Hebrew verb “to love”; it is “to do good”. As Saint Ignatius of Loyola said, “Love is shown more by deeds than by words”.106 It thus shows its fruitfulness and allows us to ex- perience the happiness of giving, the nobility and grandeur of spending ourselves unstinting- ly, without asking to be repaid, purely for the pleasure of giving and serving. (94)

From Amores Laetitia, Pope Francis
Readings
First Reading: Sirach 15:15-20
Psalm: 119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34
Second Reading: 1st Corinthian 2:6-10
Gospel: Matthew 5:17-37

Catechism of the Catholic Church
The New Law is called a law of love because it makes us act out of the love infused by the Holy Spirit, rather than from fear; a law of grace, because it confers the strength of grace to act, by means of faith and the sacraments; a law of freedom, because it sets us free from the ritual and juridical observances of the Old Law, inclines us to act spontaneously by the prompting of charity and, finally, lets us pass from the condition of a servant who “does not know what his master is doing” to that of a friend of Christ – “For all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you” – or even to the status of son and heir. (1972)
From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle A

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church:

Sirach 15:14
Man can turn to good only in freedom, which God has given to him as one of the highest signs of his image: “For God has willed that man remain ‘under the control of his own decisions’ (Sir 15:14), so that he can seek his Creator spontaneously, and come freely to utter and blissful perfection through loyalty to Him. Hence man’s dignity demands that he act according to a knowing and free choice that is personally motivated and prompted from within, neither under blind internal impulse nor by mere external pressure”.
Man rightly appreciates freedom and strives for it passionately: rightly does he desire and must form and guide, by his own free initiative, his personal and social life, accepting personal responsibility for it. In fact, freedom not only allows man suitably to modify the state of things outside of himself, but it also determines the growth of his being as a person through choices consistent with the true good. In this way man generates himself, he is father of his own being, he constructs the social order. (135)

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

What leads us to spewing superlatives Raqa, blockhead, you fool against a sister, brother or segment of society? Have we forgotten we have journeyed to the altar of the Lord? Do we erase from our minds the spirit of the commandments? Never going beyond the mere letter of the law, do we evade the depth of love? For faith is embedded not in broad utterances of legalism, but precise acts of charity and demeanor rooted in love. Acting out of our love for God, we lovingly respect the dignity of others. This comes from our free choice of life giving service over the death of trust, congeniality and respect. Desiring to manifest good in the world, translating to rippling waves of refreshment of the common good over the evil of a society unholy, like a piece of Swiss cheese with random holes of exclusion, ridicule and possession. Choices we make of our own choosing, we only impose on ourselves the consequences. Blessedness following the blameless path, we walk in the way of the Lord. A journey into the mystery of God, not explainable many times in precise phrases. Exploring God’s design, not half-heartedly with a narrow focus drafted for convenience and comfort, genuine faith cascades from the passion of our whole heart. As with our free will choosing between life and death, good and evil, we must opt how we use the Divine infusion of passion in our heart. We might segregate it for pleasure, knowledge, praise, service or the work of justice, seeking a balance.

Jesus’ fulfillment of the law and teaching of the prophets offers a broader perspective than the final, absolute, concrete, definitive action of killing, divorce, adultery or false oaths. We must examine our lives in the incremental steps taken towards actions of finality. To pause and with eyes of faith, we must intervene with a spirit of reconciliation to derail physical, and verbal thoughts and actions of violence towards others and all creation. Reconciliation tapping on love, a desire for wholeness in our lives and world and ultimately with our God.

Individual Reflection: Matthew 5:17-37
Prayerfully reflect on five issues where you need to practice reconciliation in your life. Select one item to address this week.

Family Reflection: Psalm 119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34
Over several weeks, read, in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, (paragraphs 2052 thru 2557) the in depth reflection on the Ten Commandments. After reviewing each section talk of how Jesus’ coming to fulfill the law and voices of the prophets amplifies in love the meaning of each commandment.
http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P6W.HTM

Prayer:
Dear Lord, Help us to understand the power of reconciliation for bringing to fulfillment your precepts. May we pause when we feel the compulsion to charge ahead. May we listen, when we have a desire to speak. May we watch, when we feel we must act. Help us to realize haste can perpetuate violence of thoughts and actions, leading to a severing of dialogue. We trust in the Divine infusion of passion in our hearts and help us to use this gift with a balanced spirit to enrich our faith and serve your kingdom. May our focus stay rooted in love for You that we manifest in love for others.. Jesus, thank you for your teachings and always let them be written in our hearts., In Your dear name we pray, 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 February 6, 2017 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.

Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary Reflection September 4, 2016

September 4, 2016: Twenty-third Sunday of Ordinary Time

 

Catholic Social Teaching: Life and Dignity of the Human Person

 

The solemn proclamation of human rights is contradicted by a painful reality of violations, wars and violence of every kind, in the first place, genocides and mass deportations, the spreading on a virtual worldwide dimension of ever new forms of slavery such as trafficking in human beings, child soldiers, the exploitation of workers, illegal drug trafficking, prostitution. “Even in countries with democratic forms of government, these rights are not always fully respected”.

 

Unfortunately, there is a gap between the “letter” and the “spirit” of human rights, which can often be attributed to a merely formal recognition of these rights. The Church’s social doctrine, in consideration of the privilege accorded by the Gospel to the poor, repeats over and over that “the more fortunate should renounce some of their rights so as to place their goods more generously at the service of others” and that an excessive affirmation of equality “can give rise to an individualism in which each one claims his own rights without wishing to be answerable for the common good”.  (158) Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church

 

Readings

First Reading: Wisdom 9:13-18b

Psalm: 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14-17

Second Reading: Philemon 9-10, 12-17

Gospel: Luke 14:25-33

 

Catechism of the Catholic Church

The Word became flesh to be our model of holiness: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me.” “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me.” On the mountain of the Transfiguration, the Father commands: “Listen to him!” Jesus is the model for the Beatitudes and the norm of the new law: “Love one another as I have loved you.” This love implies an effective offering of oneself, after his example. (459)

From the Daily Roman Missal, Introduction to the Sunday of Ordinary Time, Cycle C

 

Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church: No references 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

Do we live faith as misers, eking by with minimalistic commitment? A faith of convenience, attending mass if no other worldly obligations preclude, disciples only in our comfort zone, looking for opportunities of charity with the click of a donate button on our computer, putting our cross in a U-Haul instead of holding the sacred journey in our hands.  When we prioritize family relationships, earthly endeavors and causes over our commitment to God, we trivialize faith.  Our discipleship is a façade of piety.

 

As Jesus addressed the great crowds following him, he wanted them to know faith is not a lark, but a profound paradox. Living in the world, but detached from the absorption of ownership, control and manipulation of our possessions to glorify our self-worth in a cocky arrogance of striving towards a pedestal laden with false expectations.  Jesus is upfront and tells us true discipleship takes us to a new horizon of calculating our journey of life.  He asks us to consider the costs far removed from the sum total on a calculator, to the unquantifiable emotional and spiritual costs that may separate us from desires and expectations of family and friends, impose us to the ridicule of society and cause us to surrender in battles of dominance.  Discipleship leaves us humble, surrendering and open to the balm of spiritual grace.  A process of gaining wisdom of the heart over cerebral knowledge.  Forlorn looks vanish, for we receive God’s kindness leading to a spirit of joy and gladness under the gracious care of the Lord our God.  Realizing the fragility of life, we live with divine strength to trust not doubt, hope not despair, love not hate.  Our family, friends and endeavors resonate with new meaning framed in the context of discipleship.  For in prioritizing faith, life gains a deeper, more profound meaning woven with God’s, not our design.  We profess faith not with hollow platitudes, but by the way we live our lives.

 

Individual Reflection: Philemon 9-10-12-17

Read Philemon, the plea to free a slave, a plea for mercy.

September 9^th is the Feast Day of St Peter Claver, a Jesuit missionary , who cared for the spiritual and physical needs of South American slaves in the 1600’s. How can we be inspired by his work to address modern day slavery, human trafficking?  Read about the SHEPHERD program of the USCCB:

http://www.usccb.org/about/anti-trafficking-program/become-a-shepherd-tool-kit.cfm

Learn more about the issue of human trafficking:

http://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/human-trafficking/global-report-on-trafficking-in-persons.html

 

Family Reflection: Philemon 9-10, 12-17

What fair trade products will your family purchase this week to help diminish the potential of human trafficking in our world? Learn more about fair trade at: http://www.crsfairtrade.org/

 

Prayer: For the victims of slavery and human trafficking: https://www.chausa.org/prayers/prayer-library/general-prayers-and-prayer-services/healing-and-health/a-prayer-for-victims-of-human-trafficking

A Prayer for the End of Human Trafficking
As shared by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth, Convent Station, N.J.

God of freedom, beauty and truth
we believe that your deepest desire,
your most powerful energy,
is that all creation might know abundant life.

We raise our voices in anguished prayer
for our sisters and brothers,
women and girls, men and boys,
who are modern day slaves;
They are your beloved daughters and sons,
exploited sexually or forced to work
because of human violence and greed.

Fill us with your holy anger and your sacred passion
that those who are trafficked might know healing and justice;
that traffickers will come to repentance and conversion;
that all of us might live in such a way
that others are not made to pay the price
for our comfort and convenience.

Hasten the coming of the day when all people
and our precious Earth itself
will be treated, not as a commodity,
but as radiant images of your freedom, beauty and truth.
Amen. May it be so.

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.

 

Involvement Opportunities

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

 

By Barb  Born  August  25, 2016 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concern.