http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/070118.cfm
DESPERATE. In this Sunday’s Gospel, we read of two individuals who are desperate: a father desperate for the life of his twelve-year-old daughter and a woman desperate from suffering from a hemorrhage for twelve years. The father was pleading and falling at the feet of Jesus on behalf of his daughter while the woman was grasping in desperation for the relief of her affliction. After reaching the limits of their resources and medical help, both, in faith, seek Jesus, the Divine Healer. Through a touch and a word, Jesus heals each. http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/062418-day-mass.cfm
Immediately after our daughter gave birth, her husband Zach exclaimed, “We think you’re going to like this little guy!” He stated proudly, “His name is John Francis Leo.” Zach then explained, “It’s after our three favorite Popes: John the XXIII, Francis, Leo the Great.” I smiled and pondered, “With such a noble name, what will this child be?” To what mission will God call our Johnny? Will he serve as a prophetic preacher of repentance, an advocate for reform, a tireless servant of the poor, or a fierce teacher of the truth? Will he be called to the priesthood, religious life, marriage or the single life? Whatever he chooses, I pray the Lord’s hand will be upon Johnny, guiding him to the fullness of discipleship. Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/061018.cfm
I can just imagine how I would react if I were in earshot of one of my sons saying, “Who are my mother and my brothers?" I think I would barge in and “remind” him of my blood, sweat, and tears: “Who else went through nine months of pregnancy, spent ten hours in labor, cooked thousands of meals, and provided you with a good education? Is anyone here more important than your mama, your brothers, your sisters—your flesh and blood? Have I not taught you that blood is thicker than water?” |
ReflectionsThe blog on this page presents reflections on the Sunday readings through the lens of a parent/grandparent, aiding leaders of the domestic church in their vital task as “first heralds” or “first preachers” of the Good News in the home. Archives
December 2021
|