September 1, 2013: Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Catholic Social Teaching: Rights and Responsibilities
“The Catholic tradition teaches that human dignity can be protected and a healthy community can be achieved only if human rights are protected and responsibilities are met…Corresponding to these rights are duties and responsibilities—to one another, to our families and to the larger society.” Themes from Catholic Social Teaching, USCCB
Readings
First Reading: Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29
Psalm: 68:4-5, 6-7, 10-11
Second Reading: Hebrews 12:18-19, 22-24a
Gospel: Luke 14:1, 7-14
Catechism of the Catholic Church
“Would you like to see God glorified by you? Then rejoice in your brother’s progress and you will immediately give glory to God. Because his servant could conquer envy by rejoicing in the merits of others. God will be praised.” (2540) From Introduction to the Twenty Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C of the Daily Roman Missal
Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church
Luke 14:1-6
“During his earthly ministry Jesus works tirelessly, accomplishing powerful deeds to free men and women from sickness, suffering and death. The Sabbath—which the Old Testament had put forth as a day of liberation and which, observed only formally, lost its authentic significance—is reaffirmed by Jesus in its original meaning: “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” …By healing people on this day of rest, he wishes to show that the Sabbath is his, because he is truly the Son of God, and that it is the day on which men should dedicate themselves to God and to others. Freeing people from evil, practicing brotherhood and sharing: these give to work its noblest meaning, that which allows humanity to set out on the path to the eternal Sabbath, when rest will become the festive celebration to which men and women inwardly aspire. It is precisely in orienting humanity towards this experience of God’s Sabbath and of his fellowship of life that work is the inauguration on earth of the new creation.” (261)
Hebrews 12:22-23
“Sunday is a day that should be made holy by charitable activity, devoting time to family and relatives, as well as to the sick, the infirm and the elderly. One must not forget the brethren who have the same needs and the same rights, yet cannot rest from work because of poverty and misery. Moreover, Sunday is an appropriate time for reflection, silence, study and meditation that foster the growth of the interior Christian life. Believers should distinguish themselves on this day too by their moderation, avoiding the excess and certainly the violence that mass entertainment sometimes occasions…” (285)
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Reflection
Tables what are the shape? Oblong with a defined head and foot, round in unity, square with four distinctive facets. Our perception of physical design emanates from mental acuity of function dictating order. Where will people sit at the table? Does the formality of rank coagulate the fluidity of randomness? Life is setting tables crafted by faith and actions. Accepting the yoke of the Lord, we learn life’s tables must be inclusive and welcoming for ease of conversations, as dialogue at the table allows all to rise forth in collaboration. When we choose to come to tables in our lives, we shed individuality for solidarity. We come seeking to soften tables honed in power. By sauntering in with humility, the desire to clutch an honored seat, to metaphorically proclaim esteem, vanishes.
Individual Reflection: Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29
This Labor Day, reflect upon how you celebrate the gift of the Sabbath. How might you more faithfully observe the Sabbath?
Family Reflection: Luke 14:1, 7-14
For dinner this week, sit in different places at the table. Talk about your perceptions of the symbolic elements of your table.
Blogs to Visit:
Reflecting on Mary’s presence in the mysteries of the Rosary, we are blessed to know her. 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. With a foundation of justice, we can work for peace in the world and empower people’s human dignity.
https://cst74life.wordpress.com/
Catholic Social Teaching offers seven principles to uphold life in our thoughts, decisions and actions.
How we do Catholic Social Teaching.
https://csmresources.wordpress.com/
Creation sustainability 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 20, 2013 The reflection maybe used in parish bulletins, newsletters or for faith sharing groups without copyright concerns. Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary Reflection
