Indifference

And at his (the rich man’s) gate lay a poor man named Lazarus covered with sores, who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man’s table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores” (Luke 16:20-21).

            Some time ago, I was talking with someone about the poor. “While they have to suffer on earth”, he stated “the poor will gain their place in heaven. They are so lucky to have God on their side and not be tempted by wealth”, he added. Yet, when I asked what he was doing to ease their suffering, the man sounded indifferent. “Government programs take care of them and our Church does the rest, he replied. Clearly, this man saw caring for the poor as someone else’s problem.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus tells the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus to some Pharisees and warns them earthly wealth was not a sign of Divine favor. By doing so, he also cautions them about the dangers of indifference to the poor.

            The Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament presented an ambiguous attitude towards the poor. On the one hand, the Jewish Law made specific provisions for their care. After the first harvest of a grainfield or vineyard, crops not collected remained for the benefit of the poor. In addition, it reminded the wealthy how God heard the cries of the poor. Yet, other sections drew a connection between material success and Spiritual fidelity. Those who followed the Jewish Law were just in the sight of God and received Divine Blessings in this life. Some texts contrasted the conditions under which the Righteous and Unrighteous lived. From such passages, many concluded poverty was a punishment inflicted on certain individuals for sins unknown to people but known to God. Any intervention which reduced the suffering caused by poverty interfered with this punishment.

Indifference towards the situation was the proper response. This principle was popular among the rich because it justified their position and associated earthly wealth with Righteousness. Through his Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus, Jesus contested this belief. The Pharisees, who thought service of God and wealth was possible, read Scripture selectively. As Abraham made clear, the Law and Prophets repeatedly indicated God’s concern for the poor and the responsibilities of the Jewish people towards them. While the rich man never cheated or robbed Lazarus, it was his lack of concern about the suffering caused by poverty which led to his punishment. No extraordinary Revelation from someone sent back from the dead was necessary. Indifference to the poor meant indifference towards God.

            Within our Society indifference towards the poor and suffering is justified in a number of ways. Some people will claim the problem of poverty is the fault of the poor. They need to work harder so they can earn their way out of poverty. What is forgotten is that individuals working 40 hours a week at the minimum wage rarely earn enough to pay for the basic necessities of life. It is for this reason so many people use Food Banks and Soup Kitchens. Other individuals will say the problem of food insecurity is too large to be solved. This provides them with the excuse that therefore nothing can be done to address it. A third group of people will claim a new government program needs to be created to address the issue. This then absolves them of taking any personal responsibility for reducing poverty like helping with the St. Vincent DePaul Society or donating money to a Homeless Shelter. It is also likely they will grumble when their taxes are increased to fund the program. Catholics and other people of Faith frequently encounter these attitudes which promote indifference towards the poor. Yet, their Faith calls them to respond in a different way. The poor are members of the Family of God. Some may not have a strong Work Ethic or may try to take advantage of the generosity of others but Catholics are still obligated to help them. These faults do not change the fact they are made in the image and likeness of God. Each person needs the basic necessities of life (food, clothing, shelter, health care and education) to live in the way God intended. These requirements are met by using the goods of the earth which were provided by God and it is to him that people will be held accountable for how they were used. In addition, Justice requires the creation of a system in which all individuals are able to obtain for themselves these necessities through Economic activity which respects their dignity.

            While the poor do have God on their side and may gain their place in Heaven they must also be a special concern to Christ’s Disciples while they are on earth. Indifference towards them and their legitimate needs is not an option for Catholics.

September 25, 2022

Humility

Jesus said, “For all who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Luke 14:11).

            When I was in the Seminary, I had a classmate who did not get the highest marks in our courses. He was not the best at serving Mass when it was his turn to do so. Many of his friends knew a lot more about world events or social trends than he did. Yet, he never attempted to hide his limited knowledge or abilities but freely admitted them. While the rest of us worked to prove our competence in everything, he quietly accepted his place in the world and drew strength from it. His humility gained him the respect of everyone at the Seminary and made him a great Priest.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus teaches some Pharisees that those who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted. By doing so, he stresses the value of humility in the Spiritual Life.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament humility was an important Spiritual quality because through it the Jewish people recognized individually and collectively their dependence on God. It was Divine intervention which protected the poor and weak from the distress imposed upon them by the rich and powerful. God’s actions liberated the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt and insured the survival of the Jewish nation when it was oppressed by foreign powers. In many Biblical stories, God humbled arrogant leaders such as the Pharoah of Egypt and Amon of Israel while he exalted those who humbled themselves like David and Manasseh. During a dinner with some Pharisees, Jesus applied this quality to a daily event. Social standing determined where one sat at the meal. The highest place of honor was on the right side of the host with other couches in descending order of proximity to it, based upon one’s status. If one was in a place reserved for a guest with a higher standing, demotion to a lower spot and the humiliation which it implied, was inevitable. If one took a lower place, promotion to a higher spot and the exaltation which came with it became a possibility. Christ demonstrated humility was the recognition and acceptance of one’s lack of control over one’s position in the world. As guests depended upon the host for the determination of their seats at a dinner, Disciples relied upon God for the circumstances in which they lived. This lack of control meant humility was a wise response to the unknowns of Human existence.

            Christ’s Teaching about humility stands in sharp contrast to the cult of celebrity found in our Modern world. Greatness is achieved by drawing attention to oneself. Those who have good looks, charming personalities or extraordinary physical abilities, such as entertainers or athletes, easily attain this status. Ordinary people appear on “reality” Television Shows and share intimate details about their lives or do scandalous things in order to get noticed. Since the competition for the public’s attention is fierce, individuals must do more extreme things to maintain it. Yet, what is attractive or popular today may not be tomorrow. Life is full of unknowns we can’t anticipate. Jesus understood true greatness does not diminish over time. By recognizing and accepting one’s limitations and lack of control over life, a Disciple becomes contented with his/her place in life. This humility protects them from the self-inflicted humiliation caused by pride while allowing for the possibility of acclamation from God and others. Catholics and other people of Faith know the best way to promote their Faith is to humbly live it out in the ordinary events of life such as at a dinner rather than advertise themselves as a “great” Disciple.

            One way in which humility can be lived out is to accept whatever task is suggested when you offer to help with a project. While many people will volunteer to assist with an undertaking, they often want a task which will show off their abilities. Few want the jobs which are routine or difficult. Yet, someone has to do them in order for the project to be a success. Humility involves subordinating personal satisfaction to the Common Good. When someone offers to help with an undertaking, they do not know which job they will be assigned. Accepting it and doing it well, no matter how boring or hard, makes a statement about one’s character. It says the individual is comfortable in whatever circumstances he/she finds themselves and doesn’t measure self-worth by comparing themselves with others.

            As my classmate taught me in the Seminary, humility is not a sign of poor self-image but of true greatness. It is God’s idea of greatness not that of our society or ourselves which counts.

 

August 28, 2022

Hospitality

Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so, she came to Jesus and asked “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work my myself? Tell her than to help me” (Luke 10:40).

            Some time ago, I was invited by a wealthy family in my Parish to come to their home for dinner. Before the meal, I was served some good Scotch. As we sat down for dinner, I noticed the dishes were fine China and the glassware was crystal. The food we ate and wine we drank was wonderful. However, the most memorable thing about the meal was the way they focused their attention upon me. They realized I was unaccustomed to such luxury and tried to make me feel comfortable by talking about their humble backgrounds and how early in their careers they also felt uneasy when in such surroundings. Our conversation was informal and we really got to know each other better. By the time I returned home, I felt a lot less anxious then when I arrived. From the experience I learned hospitality is not about external things but making the guest the center of one’s attention.

            In this passage from Luke, Martha grumbles to Jesus about having to do all the work in providing hospitality to him. By his response, he gently reminds her of the true meaning of the term.

            Hospitality was an important Virtue within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament. When Abraham welcomed the three strangers at the Oak of Mamre, he unknowingly indicated why it was so significant: hospitality shown to others was in fact offered to God. Over time, this Virtue evolved into a series of customs which defined the relationship between a host and a guest. Upon arrival, the guest went to a couch, washed his or her hands and feet and joined the meal. The host provided the water for the guest’s use as well as the food and drink consumed. When there were numerous guests, the host’s tasks were many. Since most Jewish households lacked servants, it was female members of the family who completed them. For this reason, Martha’s frustration at Mary’s presence at Christ’s feet was understandable. She belonged with her sister in the kitchen until the meal was ready. Yet, her traditional understanding of hospitality left out one important consideration: attention to the guest. Although the provision of water, as well as food and drink, were valuable elements of this Virtue, so was the development of relationships. Distracted by her tasks, Martha neglected what Jesus really desired: the opportunity for personal interaction. Food and drink came second to this need. By her actions, Mary chose the better part when she focused upon Jesus. What she showed to Jesus she also offered to God: her entire self. By his response to Martha, Jesus gently but firmly adjusted her understanding of hospitality.

            Within our Modern Society, hospitality is usually equated with attention to detail when it comes to things. Hosts strive to make a good impression on their guests by bringing out the best China as well as providing the finest food and drink. The focus is on presentation and having the perfect experience. However, this approach can promote attitudes of reciprocity and competition. Since I provided you with an extravagant meal, you must do the same for me. When it is my turn to host a dinner, I will make sure it is more wonderful than the one you offered me. Yet, as I was once told, the most important thing about any meal is the people with whom you eat it. Although paying attention to things like food and drink is important, focusing on people is even more so. It starts with being present to the other person. This means turning off one’s cell phone and putting aside all the distractions of the moment. Listening attentively to someone when they are talking requires looking at them and not interrupting even when it is difficult not to do so. It also means being aware of non-verbals such as posture, facial expression or tone of voice when you speak. Hospitality is about making someone feel important. It is a learned skill which takes a long time to develop. In this passage, it is not recorded whether Mary did any of these things when she sat with Jesus. But she indicated he was welcome in a clearer way than her sister. Discipleship is about hospitality: welcoming people wherever they are on their Faith journey and being present to them.

            Martha and Mary both contributed something to welcoming Jesus into their home. While Martha focused on things, Mary concentrated on people. Like the couple who invited me to their house for dinner that evening, Mary understood making a guest feel comfortable by focusing on them is the meaning of hospitality.

July 17, 2022

Holy Spirit

 Jesus said, “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name will teach you everything and remind you of all that I have said to you” (John 14:26).

            There is a story concerning a young Monk who equated holiness with self-denial. Every morning, he got up early to spend additional time in Prayer. He offered to do extra chores around the Monastery during his free time. The young Monk took reduced portions at meals to discipline his Will. Despite his efforts he didn’t feel any holier. When the Monk asked his Spiritual Director for some advice he was surprised by the response: ease up. Holiness the Director explained was about having a closer relationship with God. It didn’t consist of making life difficult but enjoying Christ’s presence each day and being open to the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.

            In this passage from John, Jesus tells his Disciples the Father will send them the Holy Spirit who will provide the gifts they require to carry out their Earthly Mission. By doing so, he indicates the important role the Holy Spirit plays in God’s plan.

            Writers in the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament linked the gifts of particular individuals to the Holy Spirit. It was this Divine presence which: empowered the seventy Elders who aided Moses; guided the actions of Kings like Saul; and inspired many Prophets. Solomon credited his Wisdom to God’s Spirit within him. King Belshazzar of Babylon realized the gifts of Prophecy and Dream Interpretation employed by Daniel came from a Divine Source. Isaiah predicted a descendant of David, who once anointed with the Holy Spirit, became an instrument of Right Judgment about people and the establishment of a lasting peace on Earth. Jesus, upon whom the Holy Spirit descended at his Baptism, fulfilled this Prophecy. During his Ministry, he revealed its presence to individuals by his Teachings, Exorcisms and Healings. As his Death, Resurrection and Ascension approached, the transfer of Christ’s Mission to his Disciples became necessary. The Holy Spirit, sent by the Father at the request of Jesus, furnished the gifts which made this transition possible. Through Wisdom, Understanding, Right Judgment, Reverence, Fear of the Lord, Courage and Knowledge the Disciples clearly recalled what Christ revealed and became open to what the Holy Spirit taught. During the Passion, the Human desires and efforts of the Disciples proved inadequate. They repeatedly failed Jesus. Yet, the arrival of the Holy Spirit changed everything. As revealed in the Pentecost Story (Acts 2:1-11) the Disciples confidently proclaimed the Gospel Message to Jews from around the world. Later, they endured persecution and addressed the Pastoral issues they faced. With the Holy Spirit’s assistance, they learned they needed something more than their own abilities.

            Our Society likes the self-made individual. It feeds the idea that with enough intelligence and drive anyone can become anything. Catholics and other people of Faith frequently adopt this approach to Spiritual matters. Like the Monk in the Opening Story, they think if only they could: pray more; perform additional acts of charity; or make greater sacrifices they would draw closer to God. While these activities could deepen one’s relationship with God, one’s motivation might frustrate the effort. Prayer is not just about talking to God but also listening to the reply. Charity is not just meeting the needs of others but walking with them in their struggles. Sacrifices are not simply about toughening one’s resolve but also recognizing and learning to be comfortable with one’s vulnerability. Although Human desires and efforts to become holy are required, something more is necessary: allowing God to lead the way. The transformation of the Disciples which took place on Pentecost; which fulfilled the promise Jesus made in the Gospel required they remain passive. Jesus asked the Father to send the Holy Spirit. The Father did so. It was the Holy Spirit who entered the room. The Disciples did nothing but wait. Perhaps the lesson for our time, which is characterized by a “make it happen” attitude (even among Catholics) is that God will shape us into whatever tool he needs as long as we allow him. The Gifts of the Holy Spirit can help us to do this if we learn how to use them properly: remember what Jesus revealed and be open to all the Holy Spirit teaches.

            Pentecost is the time when we focus on what the Holy Spirit can do for us. It shows how we can be transformed by it into people who despite their past errors can confidently and boldly live out their Faith in a world which seeks to makes things happen by doing something different: letting God do it.

June 5, 2022

Hindsight

            When you think about it, most of what we learn comes from hindsight. Imagine you are told something important is about to occur. But you are busy with other concerns and do not give it much thought. Then the event happens and it is a big deal. In hindsight, you recognize the true significance of the event and why you should pay closer attention to similar messages next time.

            In this passage from Luke, two Angels remind the women who came to the tomb about what Jesus said about his Death and Resurrection while he was still alive. By doing so, they help the women to understand the meaning of Easter through hindsight.

            Within all of the Gospels, Christ made predictions regarding his Death and Resurrection to his disciples. In John’s Gospel, when Jesus cleansed the Temple in Jerusalem, his words about the building’s destruction foretold his own demise. According to the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, Jesus predicted his Passion and Death three times. On each occasion, the response of his disciples was inappropriate: Peter rebuked Jesus for the Prophecy but was reproached himself for his human thinking; James and John wanted the seats at the right and left hand of Christ when they entered the Kingdom but were told they were not rewards for martyrdom; and the Apostles responded to the third prediction with fear and never inquired about its meaning. Among all the Resurrection stories recorded in the Gospels, it was only the one in Luke which referred to these predictions. After he revealed Jesus rose from the dead, the angel connected the present situation with the past. This followed a pattern found in the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament. On several occasions, authors recalled God’s faithfulness in the past when the people faced new challenges. It took time before the apparently disconnected series of events in life settled into a recognizable pattern. Many of Christ’s Teachings were unprecedented during his Ministry, like his predictions about his Death and Resurrection. In the aftermath of his Death, confusion among Disciples such as the Women at the  Tomb was understandable. Yet, by the use of hindsight they connected the events of the life of Jesus and suddenly it all made sense.

            The rapid pace of change within our Society has prompted many people to underestimate the value of the past. They are too busy having new experiences to reflect upon old ones. A while ago, I watched a young woman take a photograph with the camera on her cellphone of a famous landmark in a beautiful setting. After she looked at it for a minute and shared it with her friends, she deleted it. I took a picture of the same place and a print of it is on the wall of my sitting room and every time I look at it I recall that trip. In hindsight, I have come to appreciate even more the beauty of the place. Part of the problem with hindsight is that it requires time and concentration, which are rare commodities in our world which favors the instant and superficial. It also helps to be open to surprising messages from unexpected sources. The Women at the Tomb, prompted by the Angel, had to stop and remember what Jesus had earlier said. Only then did they understand the meaning of the Resurrection so they could share it with the Apostles. Later, hindsight was the way Jesus helped the Disciples on the Road to Emmaus and his Apostles learn the significance of his Rising from the Dead to enable them to preach the Gospel.

            Hindsight also allows us to better grasp the meaning of Easter. The Resurrection reminds us how the material and spiritual dimensions of our lives are inseparable. Jesus could have come to earth and discarded his physical body immediately after death. As Luke indicates repeatedly, Christ went out of his way to prove his Resurrected Body had a material dimension: he was not a ghost or disembodied spirit. It was different from the one he had prior to his death but could be experienced in our present world. This implies our physical existence is not a temporary state to be endured until we get to heaven but has a permanent value. Through hindsight we can learn the material existence we experience now is a glimpse of what we will encounter following our own Resurrection.

             Hope is at the center of the Easter Message. Christ’s Resurrection demonstrates death is not extinction but the door to Eternal Life. This Resurrected State includes a physical dimension which Jesus revealed to his followers through the use of hindsight in Luke’s Gospel. Through the use of hindsight we can also learn how the Easter Message connects to our lives.

April 16, 2022

God the Father

Then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my Son, my chosen, listen to him” (Luke 9:35).

            Some time ago, I was chatting with someone who had a problem with the term God the Father. “I never had a good relationship with my father”, the man stated. “He often arrived home from work drunk and then beat up my mother, my siblings and I”, he continued. “I left home as soon as I could and never kept in contact with him”. It is a sad reality many individuals have had a similar experience to that man. However, using the term “God the Father” is necessary because it is a reminder of how all the true qualities of a father are found in God.

            In this passage from Luke, a voice from the cloud calls Jesus “my Son, my chosen”. By doing so, the presence of God the Father in Christ’s life is revealed at the Transfiguration.

            Fathers played a key role within Jewish society. A father was the head of the household and provided protection and the necessities of life for his children. Among his Religious duties were: the birth of a son who would inherit the family property and thereby extend the Covenant with God; circumcision of all male offspring; and providing Religious instruction to his children. In return, children owed their father: honor; obedience; and support in his old age. In the Jewish Law, the punishment for those who struck or cursed a father was death while dishonouring him was punished by a public shaming. Since Fathers were the source of life, children owed them an infinite debt. For this reason, one’s behaviour showed respect for one’s Father. In a similar way, God the Father had a crucial place in the life of Jesus. The cloud which overshadowed Christ and his disciples and the voice from it were clear signs of the Father’s presence. The terms “my Son” and “my chosen” signaled the depth of the relationship between the two. The conversation with Moses and Elijah on the mountain about his future death in Jerusalem indicated the commitment of Jesus to his Father’s Will. Later in the Garden of Gethsemane, Christ prayed for the removal of the cup of suffering but accepted what his Father wanted. As a good son, Jesus trusted in his Father’s Will even when faced with the human anxieties about death. At the Transfiguration, the Father’s role as the one who was present to Christ during his Passion and Death became clear.

            Lent is the season when Catholics are invited to reflect more deeply upon the role of God the Father in their lives. Over the past few decades, the way in which fathers have participated in family life has greatly changed. As the number of mothers working outside the home has grown, fathers have become more directly involved in domestic responsibilities and the raising of their children. However, these trends have not really altered the essential role of a father: to provide a solid foundation for the life of his family. While some fathers neglect their responsibilities; most fulfill them. They complement the efforts of mothers in raising their children by supplying the affirmation and guidance which God the Father provided for Jesus. Similarly, the perception of God the Father has also changed in recent times. He is no longer seen solely as the Creator of the Universe and the one who sent Jesus as our Savior but also the one who affirmed his identity and Mission, remaining present to him throughout his life. God the Father plays the same role in the lives of all the faithful although they may not always recognize it.

            During Lent, one way Catholics can be more fully aware of the role of God the Father in their lives is to respect his name. The use of coarse language within our Society is a trend which disturbs many people of Faith. Yet, how often are the words “God” or “Christ” used in a moment of anger or disgust without much thought. The way someone uses these names tells other people how important God is to them. It is unlikely a person would be so careless in the use of their own name or that of someone close to them. Individuals should show respect for God’s name because of his fatherly role: He is the one responsible for the Creation of everyone and everything. When the human race broke its relationship with him, God the Father sent his Son to restore it through the death of Christ on the cross. By respecting his name, we indicate how we recognize him as embodying the true qualities of fatherhood.

            Many people, like the man I described earlier, have painful memories of their fathers. It demonstrates the enormous influence, whether positive or negative, this person has on the life of his children. With this power comes enormous responsibility. While no earthly father is prefect, each should model themselves after their heavenly one. God the Father was a constant presence in his Son’s life and helped him fulfill his Mission. Similarly, earthly fathers are called to remain present to their children to help them do the same.

March 13, 2022

God

Jesus said to his disciples, “I still have many things to say to you but you cannot bear them now” (John 16:12).

            Some time ago, I was chatting with someone who thought the Christian Teaching about the Trinity was an example of why God was an unnecessary idea. “With the information they can gather from their five senses and Reason, humans can or will someday, explain everything which occurs in our world”, he said. “Evil can be explained by Psychological and Social factors while death is a natural process. Christians say they believe in one God in three persons. However, that is impossible. A person is a separate being. You either believe in one God or three.” I answered by asking him why he thought God was something the human mind could understand by itself. Was it not possible, there were things which exceeded the limits of the five senses and Reason which could only be known in other ways: like faith? Perhaps the Doctrine of the Trinity was a reminder any attempt to reduce God to a human concept was impossible. During a time when the ability to explain things by using information gathered from our senses and Reason has increased dramatically, it is hard for many people to accept the need for any other source of knowledge.

            In this passage from John, Jesus teaches his Disciples there are many things they are not able to understand. By doing so, he prepares them for dealing with the Mysteries of the Faith like the Trinity.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, the Mystery of God was a common theme. In Genesis, God created the Heavens and Earth by Divine command. There was no explanation of how or why this event happened. On Mount Sinai, when Moses asked what was God’s name he was told “I am who am”, which provided no insight into the Divine nature. When confronted by Job about the Wisdom of Divine thinking, God’s response stressed its vast superiority over its human counterpart. Jesus expanded upon God’s Mysterious nature in his Teachings. Christ stated he and the Father were one. In the past, no Prophet made such a claim. Judaism clung resolutely to its belief in one God. Roman and Greek Mythology had numerous tales of beings who resulted from a union between a god and human. Was this what Jesus meant? Furthermore, the existence of infinite Divinity within a finite Human Person seemed impossible. Now with the suggestion of a union between Father, Son and Holy Spirit, no Human category existed which explained such a being. It took centuries of reflection before even a partial explanation of these issues evolved. In his Teaching, Jesus certainly foretold the arrival of the Holy Spirit which helped the Disciples in their understanding of the Faith and the completion of their Mission. However, he also hinted at the mysterious nature of God which eluded all attempts at a complete understanding by humans.

            Our Modern world has a problem with mysteries. They are seen as problems to be solved. With enough intelligence and determination, everything can be made to fit into a Human concept which can be understood by all. Many see Religion as serving a Social purpose like maintaining order within the Community or a Psychological one such as meeting certain Human needs. Since no proof for the existence of God has been discovered through Reason, there is no divine being they conclude. Doctrines like the Trinity result from Religious and Political elites exerting their power by distracting people from more important concerns; like Economic inequality. However, for Catholics and other people of faith, mysteries are part of life. While Religion has been used by those in power for Social purposes; it survives the collapse of civilizations. It is true there are individuals who use Faith as a means to satisfy certain needs like belonging to a group but most continue to believe even when their desires go unfulfilled. Since information gathered from the senses can be wrong and Human Reason is fallible there are numerous things in life which can’t be proven: such as whether someone loves you. The Doctrine of the Trinity, like other Mysteries found within the Christian Tradition, can never be fully understood by Reason. It was revealed by God to the faithful for this reason. The words used at the Council of Nicaea (325) “one God in three persons” took concepts from Greek Philosophy which reflected how individuals thought at that time. These days many people find this definition too abstract to be meaningful. Although it is the Teaching of the Church and expresses Divinely Revealed truth, it is possible a better way of explaining it will be found in the future. The Doctrine of the Trinity reminds Catholics while the limits of Human Reason can keep them from reaching a full understanding of certain truths, God will provide them with other ways of knowing them.

            As my conversation with that young man illustrated, belief in God requires a willingness to accept the existence of Mysteries like the Trinity and the limits of knowing things by what we experience with our senses and discover by Reason. Not everyone is prepared to do so. But, for those who do, knowledge of God leads to a fuller view of the world.

June 12, 2022

Foresight

Jesus said, “For which of you intending to build a tower does not first sit down and estimate the cost to see whether he has enough to complete it?” (Luke 14:28).

            When I was growing up, I was told hindsight is valuable but foresight is even more so. With hindsight you learn from your past mistakes and hopefully do not repeat them. Foresight is the ability to anticipate what is going to happen before it does and so be prepared for it. Although experience can help people develop foresight, it also requires the ability to use that experience in the right way.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus teaches that someone intending to build a tower should determine if there is sufficient money to complete the project in order to avoid public ridicule. By doing so, he indicates the importance of foresight in the life of a prospective Disciple.

            Throughout the Bible, the importance of foresight was a common theme. In the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, Prophets anticipated the dangers associated with Israel’s infidelity to God and warned the people of dire consequences. Despite the rejection of their message and the ominous events which followed later generations learned valuable lessons from the foresight of these individuals. Within Luke’s Gospel, when the Angel told Mary about her future role as the mother of Jesus her acceptance of it likely came from the foresight that it was God’s plan. John the Baptist anticipated and prepared people for the arrival of Christ and the coming Kingdom of God through his Ministry of Preaching and Baptism. Jesus foresaw the future challenges faced by his Disciples when they participated in the Mission work he started. Their message regarding Divine Providence became more credible when they carried only a few possessions and accepted hospitality. The demands of Discipleship potentially demanded the sacrifice of all things which included one’s life. Discipleship also required constant watchfulness and the recognition that all authority was a call to service. With the challenges of sharing in his Ministry clearly explained, Christ now revealed the value of foresight. A decision was necessary. It required a great deal of thought for the cost of Discipleship was high. Once committed a Disciple had no easy means of escape. Foresight was an essential quality for all Disciples.

            Catholics and other people of faith understand the value of foresight. Since they believe their existence in the next life is influenced by their decisions in this one, the ability to anticipate the future and prepare for it is important. In addition, since their Religious Traditions are rooted in Divine Revelation and generations of collective reflection upon it, the Wisdom which exists within them enables Believers to place current situations into perspective. Foresight requires the ability to distinguish between the trivial and significant in daily experience and Faith assists this process.

            Consider the recent Covid 19 Pandemic. Most Religious Traditions have faced plagues in the past. Their responses to such events have often included caring for the sick but also looking for the reason why they happened. When the plague is perceived as a type of Divine punishment, sinners must be identified and penalized. At a time when racial and Religious tensions are rising, scapegoats are easily found. As recent events have shown, this tendency still exists today. Some groups were accused of causing or spreading the virus without any evidence. Hindsight instructs believers about the terrible consequences of taking this approach: suspicions which lead to a lack of cooperation and makes the situation worse. Foresight lets the faithful see other opportunities: recognizing everyone as members of God’s family leads to collaboration which keeps everyone safer and shortens the crisis.

            As Jesus revealed in this passage, he wanted his disciples to be forward looking. The past provides the experiences from which to learn through the benefit of hindsight. The present offers the challenges to which those lessons can be applied. The future supplies opportunities to create a better world if acquired knowledge is used in the right way to anticipate and prepare for them. Like the disciples, we have a big task ahead of us in responding to the problems the world faces like climate change or food insecurity. By using hindsight to learn lessons from the recent Covid 19 Pandemic and foresight to anticipate the future, Catholics can contribute to help promote the Common Good.

September 4, 2022

Fire

Jesus said “I came to bring fire to the earth and how I wish it were already kindled” (Luke 12:49).

             One summer holiday, when I was a boy, our family drove through a region of northern New Brunswick which two weeks earlier had been the site of a forest fire. All you could see for miles around was the black of burnt trees and grass. But in a few places, there were green shoots of new plants beginning to come through the soil. The experience reminded me of how fire can be an agent of change on the earth.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus uses fire as an image of the effect his presence can have on the people who hear it. By doing so, he warns old beliefs and relationships may be lost so that new ones can come into existence.

            Writers in the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament associated fire with the Divine presence. God appeared as a smoking pot and torch when Abraham offered his sacrifice at the ratification of the Covenant. The Divine presence took the form of a burning bush when Moses encountered God on the mountain and learned about his Mission to the enslaved Hebrews. In the desert, God led the Israelites as a pillar of fire in the night. When Moses went up the mountain and received the Ten Commandments, the people perceived God as a devouring fire. Ezekiel witnessed God as a great cloud with flashing fire, while in the midst of the creatures of his vision, were burning coals of fire. Daniel, in his vision, observed a stream of flames which came from the Son of Man. On each occasion God’s presence, signified by the image of fire, foretold a change which ended an old set of ideas and relationships and enabled the creation of new ones. Jesus expanded on this Tradition when he described the impact of his Gospel on the lives of those who heard it. As a fire purified metal, so his message burned off imperfections in how people comprehended the Jewish Law. His teachings challenged existing social and religious norms. Acceptance of his new ideas required the death of old ones. However, many individuals rejected Christ’s message because of its radical nature. This meant the possible end of close relationships, even those within families. Jesus understood the full consequences of discipleship. Tensions between those who rejected and accepted his Gospel were inevitable. Yet, as with a forest fire, the new life which came after the destruction of the old created a more vibrant world.

            Christ’s Teaching about the nature of his presence on earth confronts some Modern ideas about Christianity. Many individuals see Jesus as a social reformer who preached tolerance, love and peace. While he taught these ideals, he also placed them within a set of religious principles. Christ forgave sinful behavior but never tolerated it. He indicated love was not a sentiment but to will the good of another. The peace he offered would ultimately be found in the next world not in this one. These principles are inseparable from his ideals, despite the fact many people, including some Christians, would like to believe it is possible to detach them. Jesus taught he was the way, truth and life not a way, truth and life. His Teachings are like a fire which seeks to destroy sinful activities and purify human behavior. They challenge the Relativistic thinking which is common within our Society which doesn’t like ideas which lead to conflict. Christ’s Disciples understand such conflict is inevitable and healthy because it leads individuals to the truth. The fiery nature of Christ’s Teachings destroys the obstacles which inhibit growing closer to God and allows the shoots of a new understanding of life and how it should be lived to appear in the world.

            Among the ways Catholics can help Christ’s presence on earth to grow is to develop the ability to have a good Religious argument. People are ready to argue about anything today. They will express their opinions about politics, sports or movies and how such areas impact their daily lives. However, when it comes to Religion, they are silent. Why? A respectable argument about Religion, like that on any other subject, involves expressing your beliefs about something which is important to you and listening to another person’s view. As the conversation develops, you go deeper into the matter and learn from each other. Mutual respect is important. The purpose of the argument is so you better understand the other person and vice versa. If you convince the other person to agree with you; fine. If not, agree to disagree and stay friends. Jesus used this attitude; so should we. Let how we argue about Religion allow the fire of his presence to remain on earth.

            Fire can be a potent agent of change in our world. Faith in Christ can have a similar effect if we harness properly its potential.

August 14, 2022

Evil

Jesus asked them, “Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans?” (Luke 13:2).

             Several years ago, a parishioner told me about her sister who was dying of cancer. “All her life”, she told me, “my sister was a good person. She went to Mass on Sunday, helped around her parish and was a loving wife and mother. Now, she is lying in a hospital bed, dealing with a lot of pain and waiting to die. Yet, I know individuals who are not religious, lead less respectable lives and are perfectly healthy. Somehow, it just doesn’t seem right”. Like this parishioner, a lot of people’s faith is challenged by the existence of evil in the world.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus warns his disciples not to make superficial connections between sin and suffering in the world. By doing so, he teaches them an important lesson about the complexity of evil.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, evil was a complicated idea. As indicated in Genesis, evil originated with a deliberate and known action against God. Its spread throughout Creation made it a universal experience for humans and led to the destruction of nearly all life on earth. Stories like Saul’s disobedience to God’s command to destroy the Amalekites and David’s adultery with Bathsheba and murder of Uriah the Hittite stressed the direct connection between evil and its consequences. However, others stories such as that of the Maccabean Martyrs and the suffering endured by Job, a righteous man, disputed this linkage. Jesus used this second approach on the connection between evil and its consequences in his conversation with the crowd and his disciples. Those killed by the collapse of the tower (natural evil) or executed by Herod (human evil) were likely no more or less guilty of evil than the people around them. Although a just God punished evil and rewarded good actions, the process by which this happened was a mystery. A person’s judgment about evil used limited human knowledge. God’s judgment utilized unlimited Divine Wisdom. In addition, it was possible some apparently evil consequence was part of a plan for the achievement of some greater good by God. This meant human judgments about the links between evil deeds and their consequences were sometimes wrong.

            As the ability of humans to understand and explain how the universe works has grown, so has their confidence in their capacity to solve mysteries. The reality of evil and its consequences are now explained as the result of unjust social conditions, unhealthy psychological development or proof of the meaninglessness of life. For Catholics and other people of faith, it poses awkward questions. How can a just God allow evil? How can a loving God permit suffering? The lack of a simple answer to such questions challenges their faith and weakens its credibility in our Secular Society. However, the Secular responses to the reality of evil also have their flaws. No credible blueprint for a perfectly just society has ever been produced. An evil act requires the perpetrator to know it is wrong and intend to do it which an unhealthy psychological development inhibits. If there is no meaning to life, why are people searching for it? Experience teaches everyone that life is complicated and simple answers are often wrong. Jesus taught his disciples they must learn to be comfortable with the reality that evil is a mystery beyond human understanding. Yet, they do not stand helpless before it. They can reduce the suffering caused by it. With their knowledge of right and wrong they can often stop it before it happens. From their past experiences with evil, they can place it into perspective to see if some good can result from it. These responses require people of faith to recognize their need for God’s help whenever they are faced with evil and be open to it.

            As the woman whose sister was dying of cancer learned, evil is often a powerful force we can neither understand nor control. I wanted to give a simple answer to her question “Why?” but that would have been dishonest. However, in a way she made some sense of it. The woman went to visit her sister almost daily so she would know she was not alone. She made sure all the family was there when her sister died. She proved the mystery of evil cannot overpower the ability to do good.

March 20, 2022

Dumb Ox

 Jesus said to the Eleven, “Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole of creation” (Mark 16:15).

             Since the time I started publishing my blog a few weeks ago, a number of people have asked me why I named it the Dumb Ox Society. The “Dumb Ox” was a term used to describe St. Thomas Aquinas (it was not meant as a compliment). I am neither as brilliant nor as holy as him. But one of the things which attracted me to Aquinas when I studied his ideas while I was in the Seminary was the expansiveness of his thought. He wrote not just on Philosophy and Theology but examined such topics as Law, Politics and Economics. He seemed interested in everything. In a world of hyper-specialization (especially in academia) perhaps he can teach us something.

            In this passage from Mark, Jesus tells his disciples to preach the Gospel everywhere. By doing so, he reveals his message to be inclusive rather than exclusive.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, there existed a tradition of thinking which viewed the outside world with suspicion. When the Israelites came into the Promised Land, they were told to drive out the people already living there and not intermarry with their neighbours (because they worshipped other gods). It was the Solomon’s marriage to foreign women which was seen as the cause of the introduction of pagan religions into Israel which eventually led to the division of the Jewish people into two kingdoms. After the Greeks conquered their territory and attempted to force Jews to adopt pagan ways, Judas Maccabaeus began a military campaign against them and their Jewish supporters. There were good reasons for the Jews to be suspicious of outsiders. They were a small nation often threatened by powerful neighbours such as Egypt, Assyria and Babylon. Northern Israel was conquered by the Assyrians and the entire country was taken over by the Babylonians. The Jews were slaves in Egypt for centuries and a large portion of them were exiled to Babylon for a long time. Throughout their history, extinction was seen as a real possibility for the Jewish people.

            Yet, there was also a more inclusive strand of thought within these Scriptures. According to Genesis, through Abraham all people, not just his descendants, would receive God’s blessing. Isaiah wrote that one day all nations would come to the Lord’s House in Jerusalem to learn from God and as a result universal peace would be established. In the Book of Jonah, God is merciful to the people of Nineveh (capital of Assyria, Israel’s enemy) when they repented. Jesus expanded upon this inclusivist strand by associating with outsiders in Israel. Christ touched a leper, which made him ritually impure according to the Jewish Law, ate dinner with a tax collector (Matthew), his friends and other public sinners and cured a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, which angered the Pharisees. He also ministered to people outside the boundaries of Israel including the daughter of the Syro-Phoenician woman because of the mother’s faith. When Jesus sent out the Twelve, he placed no limits on where they went or to whom they ministered. Finally, before he ascended into heaven, Christ instructed his disciples to proclaim his Gospel to all people. It was not to be confined to those of one religious tradition, language, nationality, race or culture. The message was universal or catholic in the real sense of the term.

            During a time when the Church and Organized Religion appear to be under attack from Secularism, it is tempting to move towards an exclusivist mindset. This means separating people into insiders and outsiders. Scientific, spiritual, social, political and economic developments are evaluated by how well they support one’s worldview. Anything which challenges one’s thinking is considered a threat to be eliminated. One clings to individuals who have the same opinions and ideas which makes one feel secure. Periods of rapid and significant change are always disturbing. However, at the time of Aquinas, the Christian worldview in Europe was also facing significant changes. People were moving from rural to urban areas. The economy was more commercial as trade increased and small industries expanded, The writings of pagan philosophers like Aristotle and Plato or Islamic scholars like Avicenna were being introduced into universities. The Church reacted by establishing the Mendicant Orders (Dominicans and Franciscans) in order to care for people where they were. Thinkers like Aquinas embraced the new ideas and identified how they could be used by our Catholic tradition. Our Church is at its best when it is outward rather than inward looking. I think that was one message of Vatican II. It can dialogue with practically every group of people when done with respect and in a sincere effort to share (not impose) the Gospel. This inclusivist attitude is also meant for all areas of human activity. The Church has an interest in all topics and can contribute something to the conversation. It has an Observatory in Arizona where astronomers from all backgrounds study the universe. It holds conferences on topics like human trafficking and cyberbullying which attract experts from around the world. It converses with those who influence culture like artists and members of the media through public events and statements. Likewise, individual Catholics should learn and interact with the world around them.

            I hope through my blog I can follow in the footsteps of the “Dumb Ox”. His view of the world was inclusivist: he embraced what he found in it and worked out how it could fit into his faith. I hope to do the same. Over time, I will try to explore many of the topics which impact our lives and show how the Gospel message is linked to them. I invite your comments because this is a journey we are all on together. I may make a few wrong turns along the way but I look forward to continuing the trip.

May 14, 2024

Duty

Then the father said to the older son, “Son you are always with me and all that is mine is yours” (Luke 15:31).

             Some time ago, I was chatting with someone who had just received an award at work for outstanding service. “I have a duty to my employer and my clients to provide them with my best effort every day” he said. “I have the same duty to be the best husband and father to my wife and kids” he added. Yet, when it came to his religious obligations he revealed a different attitude. “I know I should go to Mass but I just don’t want to get out of bed on Sunday” he said. Like many people, this man took a cost/reward approach when deciding how much sacrifice a duty requires.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus tells the story of a father who uses a different means to measure the amount of sacrifice required by his obligations. By doing so, Christ reveals another way to understand the relationship between sacrifice and duty.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, the Covenant which existed between Israel and the Jewish people supplied a model for social relationships. One of its components was the fulfilment of certain obligations by each side. God gave Jews land, security and an identity. For their part, the people satisfied their Liturgical, Spiritual and Moral duties under the Jewish Law. When they disregarded their obligations, God usually punished but never abandoned them. This example provided a lesson on the importance of commitment to duty regardless of the cost. Jesus expanded on this lesson in his Parable of the Forgiving Father. According to Jewish Law, fathers gave their sons protection, material security and moral instruction. In return, sons showed them honour, loyalty and obedience. When the younger son wanted his share of the inheritance early, he put his desires ahead of the obligation he owed his father. He further distanced himself from his duty when he wasted the inheritance in a foreign land. The son saw the cost of his obligation as being greater than the reward of personal happiness. Yet, when the father restored the younger son’s position in the family, despite all that happened, he revealed his love and commitment to duty disregarded such calculations. The anger of the older son at the apparent non-recognition of his loyalty and favorable treatment shown to his brother highlighted the calculations behind his obligations. The cost of duty demanded an appropriate reward. When he refused to participate in the celebration and disregarded his father’s plea for family reconciliation, he dishonoured him. However, the father’s response indicated his love for the older son through a recognition of his hardships but also how obligations were about relationships which frequently required sacrifices without cost/reward calculations. Through his example, the father taught both his sons a lesson about the relationship of sacrifice and duty.

            Modern Society has a complicated attitude about the connection between obligation and sacrifice. On the one hand, it respects those who give up a great deal to fulfill their civic duties such as soldiers who risk their lives to defend their country. It admires those who make personal sacrifices in order to become outstanding in their professional lives, like a salesman who works weekends to win an important client for his company. On the other hand, calculations are often made about how much sacrifice is required by one’s obligation. A soldier who risks his/her life may receive a medal. The salesman who gives up his weekends might get a pay raise. However, true commitment to duty ignores this cost/reward calculation. Catholics and other people of faith know this truth. Obligations define an individual’s identity and beliefs. The sacrifices needed to fulfill their duty to God, a family member or the Community are not the most important factor in their thinking. In this passage, the father never worried about what the neighbours or those at the celebration thought. His focus was on fulfilling his obligation to love his sons and teach them a key lesson about life. This was the approach Jesus wanted his disciples to take when they carried out their duties on earth.

            As the man with whom I chatted demonstrated, the duties one takes seriously reveal a lot about one’s priorities. Obligations to one’s employer, family and Community require sacrifices and should be taken seriously. While fulfilling one’s duty to God will not result in an award from your employer, appreciation from your relatives or recognition by the civic officials, it will show whether you understood the meaning of this passage.

March 27, 2022

Discipleship

 Jesus said to the Apostles, “So you also, when you have done all that you were ordered to do, say ‘We are worthless slaves; we have done only what we ought to have done” (Luke 17:10).

             For thirty-one years my father worked at the General Motors Car Factory in Oshawa. On a day in late May 1978, the torch passed to the next generation. I received my call to work at GM as a summer student. After he heard the news, my father decided to give me some advice. “Make sure you do the little things well”, he said. “Show up to your workplace on time at the start of the day and after each break. Whatever job they assign you, even if it is unpleasant, do the best you can at it. Always respect your supervisor and the people with whom you work. If they give you a hard time, don’t respond in the same manner”. At the time, I thought he was teaching me how to succeed at GM. In hindsight, I realize it is how you succeed in life, especially as a Catholic.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus teaches his disciples about the value of humble service. By doing so, he identifies it as a defining quality of discipleship.

            During Christ’s lifetime, Disciples were individuals who sought religious teaching from a formally recognized teacher or Rabbi. They approached a Rabbi and became part of his group for a period of time during which the student studied the Jewish Law and its spiritual practices. The Rabbi often shaped the thinking of his disciple but the student retained a degree of independence. After the Disciple received a certain level of instruction, he frequently left the Rabbi’s circle and taught publicly. In time, he gathered his own group of students. Christ’s approach to Discipleship was different from that of other Rabbis. While in John’s Gospel the first Disciples approached Jesus, in the others, he called them. In addition, they were not merely students but also servants. They received instruction in the Jewish Law and its proper application to life situations but also formation in how they prepared for Eternal Life. Disciples conformed themselves to God’s Will under the guidance of Jesus and followed his example. As the passage indicated, this required the surrender of their independence. They were now humble servants who faithfully carried out their assigned tasks. In response to their request for increased faith, Jesus described its unbelievable power but then connected it to humble service. Even Disciples who had strong Faith recognized its smallness compared to God and used what they had for his service. They did their tasks with no expectation of recognition or thanks. The fulfilment of their duties spoke for itself: it revealed they understood their status as Disciples and were happy with it.

            Within our Society, humble service is something expected of others but not of one’s self. At a restaurant people will complain about the service yet when they are expected to provide it will often have excuses like “it isn’t my job” or “I am too tired”. Service requires humility, the willingness to put the demands of someone else ahead of your own. It will be inconvenient, open yourself up to the possibility that others will take advantage of you and rarely be recognized or appreciated. Humble service is a noble idea but totally unrealistic in the tough, competitive world in which we live. Catholics and other people of faith understand the challenges which come with it. Yet, their Faith calls them to live it out anyway. There is only one recorded case in Scripture where someone thanked Jesus for a healing: the Samaritan Leper. His teachings were frequently met with scorn and ridicule by the Religious Leaders of his day and likely indifference by many in the crowds who followed him. Christ died on the cross for the sins of those who inflicted pain on or ridiculed him. He had the power to destroy his opponents but never used it. Although he asked that the cup of suffering be taken away, he willingly drank it. Despite all the challenges he faced, he never wavered in his task to fulfill his father’s Will. In all these ways, he lived out the standard of humble service taught in this passage. Discipleship involved more than perceiving what Jesus revealed and how to apply it to a given situation. It meant being formed in his image and living out humble service whatever the cost.

            As my father taught me many years ago, doing the little things well is important to be a success in life. It defines your character by showing the extent to which you are prepared to go to serve others humbly. Through humble service, revealed in many small ways, Disciples identify who they follow and how much they are committed to him.

October 2, 2022

Detachment

 Jesus said, “Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again” (Luke 6:27).

             When I returned from my first Mission Trip to Brazil, I was determined I was going to make some serious changes to my lifestyle. During the trip I saw people whose standard of living was far lower than mine yet were happier and more faith filled than myself. “How can I get what they have?” I asked myself. The answer, I was certain, was to get rid of most of my possessions. Over the next week I went through my stuff to determine what I would keep and which items I would throw away. By the time I finished, I was disappointed at how many things were still left. Yet, the process triggered a new insight. Those people in Brazil were happy because they had all they needed. Although they knew most people in Brazil had more possessions than themselves it didn’t bother them because they detached themselves from the desire for more stuff. Their goods were reminders of how God cared for them. They attached no other meaning to them. The insight prompted me to ask myself what meaning I attach to my stuff. When I went through my things a second time, this question made it easier to part with more items.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus instructs his disciples to give to those who beg and not ask for what was taken from them. By doing so, he teaches them how detachment is an essential quality for a disciple.

            According to the Jewish Law, the relationship between a person and his or her property was complex. It prohibited theft and covetousness towards the goods of others. Since it was God who gave the Promised Land to Jews, its continued possession within a family was critical. This need led to the practice of Levirate Marriage where a man married his deceased brother’s wife in the hope of the birth of an heir. The return of property to its original owners was one of the main requirements of the Jubilee Year. Such sections of the Jewish Law reinforced the attachment of individuals to their property. Yet, other provisions in the Law placed limits on one’s control over one’s goods. After the collection of crops from a grainfield or vineyard, any remaining stalks or fruit were left for the poor. It also required generosity towards those in need with no regard for one’s personal benefit. Christ’s Teaching expanded upon this latter element of the Jewish Law. Since all property originated with God, claims of ownership were never absolute. Detachment was the realization of God’s sovereignty over all Creation. Hatred of one’s enemies, retaliation as a response to an assault and the restoration of seized goods indicated a worldly attachment to life and goods. Security and prosperity were under one’s control. However, Disciples put their trust in divine providence. Attachment to God meant detachment from the world and its way of thinking. It was this attitude which distinguished Disciples from other people.

            Within the past generation, the attitudes many individuals have towards their possessions have become more complicated. There was a time when an automobile was considered primarily a means of transportation. Although the wealthy usually bought different models from the rest of us, most people looked at such practical things as gas mileage, reliability and maintenance costs when making their purchase. Now a car is a fashion statement. Individuals are concerned about such things as: how they feel while driving it; the impression it makes on others; and the number being sold. In addition, many people treat their automobile like a member of the family. Today, the meaning attached to any possession is determined not by any kind of objective standard but the personal feelings of its owner which can rapidly fluctuate. This trend makes it difficult for a Catholic or any person of faith to practice an attitude of detachment. It is our faith which gives us a way to measure the value of any object. Our faith also reminds us that all we have comes from God and Divine Providence will supply our needs but not always our desires. People who adopt these ideas go against the current of our individualistic and materialistic society. They stand out and are often ridiculed for it. Yet, it is because they recognize the true value of their possessions that they can become detached from them. They know what they need and are grateful to God for it. What they don’t need they don’t have to need.

            Those people in Brazil taught me an important lesson. It is we who attach meaning to our possessions. Our faith can help us decide whether that meaning makes sense. How we respond to that decision says a lot about what type of disciple we are.

February 20, 2022

Contracts

 Jesus said, “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13).

             Most people are familiar with contracts. If you want to rent an apartment you will likely have to sign a lease. This contract will define the specific terms of your relationship. You will pay your landlord a fixed amount of money and in return you get to live in the apartment. Details about who is responsible for doing certain maintenance tasks will be spelled out. The contract will last for a certain period of time with the possibility being renewed in the future. If one party does not live up to his/her side of the deal neither will the other one. Disputes are settled by an outside body often a Court or Rental Board. Contracts are quid pro quo agreements which insure what each party will get out of it. Since contracts are so common in daily life, they frequently shape how people think about all relationships including those which involve love.

            In this passage, Jesus teaches his disciples about sacrificial love. By doing so, he presents a different way of viewing relationships which takes a covenant rather than a contract approach.

            According to the Old Testament/Hebrew Scriptures, the relationship between God and the Jewish people was in many ways not like a contract. The terms of the relationship were broad as indicated in Lev. 26:12 “I will be your God and you will be my people.” The relationship was not to be for a fixed period of time  When the Jewish people violated the terms of the relationship by worshipping other gods or disobeying the Divine Law God did not terminate it. No outside body had the authority to settle disputes between the parties. Rather than a contract, the relationship was a covenant. It was unlimited, eternal, unconditional, transcendental and based on total love. Jesus outlined how this kind of relationship is lived out by saying “love one another as I have loved you” and “No one has greater love than this to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” He was about to demonstrate this kind of love through his Passion and Death on the Cross. In this way, his disciples and all humanity would be redeemed from their sins. By sharing everything with his disciples revealed to him by the Father about this redemption Jesus removed all limits which existed in their relationship. The effects of this redemption were eternal. They were not conditional on the actions of the disciples. They went beyond the ability of humans to affect the outcome. They were done totally for the good of the other for the sake of the other. By doing so, Christ indicated to his disciples how they were to follow a covenantal rather than contractual model of love.

            Experience teaches us about the value of a contract type of relationship. We know what is expected of us and the other party. We know our interests are protected because if the other side does not fulfill their obligations we can terminate the relationship. We know if we are harmed by the actions of the other party we can seek redress and perhaps compensation through legal action. However, the most important relationships in our lives rarely correspond to this way of thinking. On their Wedding Day, no couple can know what the future holds. They can try to do everything possible to build a happy life together but such things as illness or economic setbacks could keep them from doing so. As they get older, both husband and wife will change and become different individuals from the ones they were on their Wedding Day. Tensions and disagreements will arise about important issues which will test their commitment to each other. As some married friends of mine have told me, success depends not on a fifty-fifty deal but a one hundred-one hundred commitment to make it work. Similarly, parents who welcome a new child into their family have no idea of what kind of person he or she will become. The mother and father could be good role models for their child, stress the importance of self-discipline, perseverance and hard work and raise him or her in the faith yet have their son or daughter reject everything which they believe. As their child gets older, external factors like social media could influence his or her behaviour more than the parents. Since there are few guarantees or certainties in life, no realistic contract could ever be created for either Marriage or being a parent. This means for the most significant relationships in our life, a covenantal approach is superior. Like Christ, our love should not be limited, temporary, conditional, worldly and partial. Although our secular society may scoff at such a suggestion, the evidence appears to indicate the alternative is failure, heartbreak and frustration.

            While contracts do have their place in their lives, Catholics should avoid adopting them as the model for all relationships. A covenantal approach, when looking at their most important relationships, brings us closer to Christ and ultimate happiness.

May 4, 2024

Conclusions

 While Jesus was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried into heaven (Luke 24:51).

             Every story has a beginning, a middle and an end. The purpose of the conclusion is bring a sense of completeness to the narrative. Not only is there a resolution to the struggle within the story but the Author’s message becomes clear. All loose ends are wrapped up and the characters move on with their lives in a new direction. For these reasons, it is crucial that a story has a solid conclusion. Yet, whether the narrative is fictional or not life continues for those involved in it.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus explains to his Disciples why he suffered and rose from the dead and then ascends into heaven. By doing so, he provides a fitting conclusion to Luke’s Gospel and its explanation for Christ’s identity and Mission.

            During his narrative, Luke recorded many occasions which pointed towards the Suffering and Resurrection of Jesus. In the Jerusalem Temple, Simeon revealed to Mary her son was a sign who faced opposition from many. Christ predicted to his Disciples his Death and Resurrection on three occasions during his Ministry. He also stated his trip to Jerusalem was necessary because it was there that opponents killed the Prophets. Luke also noted after Jesus arrived there, the Chief Priests, Scribes and Elders desired his death. Yet, the reason behind Christ’s Death remained a Mystery. The Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament recorded few instances of the Death of a Prophet. There was also no apparent Scriptural evidence for the Death of the Messiah. It was likely for this reason, Jesus interpreted Biblical Texts, like the Suffering Servant Songs in Isaiah, to his Disciples before he concluded his Earthly Mission. Once this was completed, Christ ascended to his Father in Heaven where he rightfully belonged until he returned at the Final Judgment. The Ascension was a decisive moment in the History of the Early Church because it signalled the glorification of Jesus as he concluded his Earthly Mission and passed it on to his Disciples.

            Experience teaches us the conclusion of one story is often the start of another. Within our Society, people like to impose artificial boundaries on time to make events more understandable. The Second World War began in September 1939 and ended in 1945. However, for the people of China, it started years earlier in 1931. Stories are constructed by individuals around how specific events affect them. For this reason, stories which attempt to connect all people across all time are rarely told. However, this is what Luke’s narrative about Christ tries to do. The story begins with the conception of Jesus and how it fulfilled a promise God made to the Jewish people centuries earlier. Luke also indicates how the lives of all people, not just Jews, would be altered by Christ. The narrative extends beyond his Life and Death to his Resurrection and Ascension. But, the story is about more than his time on earth. Its meaning can only be known by understanding how Jesus changed the future of Humanity by his Death and the course of History when news about it spread across the world. For this reason, Luke wrote Acts of the Apostles to bring the story of Jesus to a more complete conclusion. Yet, Catholics and other people of Faith know stories from Sacred Texts do not end there: they must be lived out in the present time. The narrative of Jesus and what it means for his followers continues in how they perceive the world, interact with it and prepare for what follows it. This story will continue until the end of time. The Ascension is not just an event in History but a key to understanding the meaning of everything for all people for all time. Christ returned to Heaven to indicate the one Christians follow is God who gave us a Mission which is now ours. The conclusion of the story is still a future event but we must prepare for it.

            The story of life is full of beginnings, middles and endings. There are many times when it is difficult to tell into which category an event falls. As this passage indicates, the Ascension of Jesus was the conclusion of one part of the story of God’s plan and the start of another. Until this plan is completed the story continues and we are part of it.

May 29, 2022