Peace

Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not let them be afraid” (John 14:27).

             Peace is a rare commodity these days. The Television News and other Media outlets are filled with stories: of Wars in Ukraine and Syria; Civil Conflict in nations such as Myanmar and Democratic Republic of Congo; Mass Shootings in many cities; and Domestic Violence within families. Many individuals want something done about this lack of Peace. Diplomats are at work attempting to come up with plans to end conflicts between and within countries. Political leaders advocate for tougher measures against crime or restrictions on certain weapons. Different groups  within Society are trying to stop abusive behaviour. Although these efforts are commendable, it is essential to recognize lasting Peace requires more than Human action because it is beyond our ability to achieve.

            In this passage from John, Jesus tells his Disciples the Peace he gives them differs from that provided by the world. By doing so, he presents a new understanding of Peace and its origin.

            Christ’s forthcoming Passion and Death revealed the world’s conception of peace. Jewish Leaders thought the survival of their nation depended on good relations with the Romans which required the Death of Jesus and so made plans for it. When they brought Christ before Pilate, no specific charge was made and no evidence provided by them. Although Pilate found Jesus guilty of no offence, he allowed the Crucifixion because it pacified the crowd. The method of execution was painful and humiliating, intended as a demonstration of Roman power. Clearly, coercion and fear rather than truth and Justice were the basis of the worldly Peace associated with the Roman and Jewish Authorities. Since the likely response of his Disciples to his Passion and Death was distress and anxiety, Jesus proposed another understanding of Peace which pointed towards the future. When arrested he called for the release of his Disciples. At his trial Christ talked to Pilate about truth. Despite the wickedness he encountered (betrayal, denial, injustice and torture) Jesus never intervened for his own benefit. This suggested a Peace grounded in the knowledge of the Truth and Justice of God’s plan. It was more powerful than any based on coercion and fear. Jesus knew the Cross was not the end of his story. On Easter, his Disciples learned of the reality of a Peace which extended even beyond Death. This Peace was different from that provided by the world because it was infinite and Eternal.

            Within the Modern world, Peace is the absence of conflict. It usually results from a deal made between the disputing parties which sets the terms for Peace and sometimes addresses the causes of the disagreement. Since often there is a power imbalance between the groups making the agreement, the stronger party imposes by force its will on the weaker one when dealing with the source of the dispute. Unless both sides are really satisfied, the situation is more like a truce than genuine Peace because the latter is rooted in Justice and Truth. Catholics and other people of Faith understand this idea. Christ calls his followers to be peacemakers within their families, communities, nations and the world. At a time when polarization exists almost everywhere, this work can be dangerous as both extremes try to pull those in the middle to their side. In addition, examining the root causes of problems and finding solutions based on Justice and Truth, instead of expediency, often provokes a negative response. Yet, Jesus revealed in his Passion and Death that coercion and fear can be overcome by higher ideals. Justice requires giving each individual their due. Truth depends not on the subjective opinion of the powerful but the objective reality of what God has revealed. Genuine Peace begins when each party sees the other the way God does: individuals made in the Divine image whose needs and desires are the same. Disagreements are usually rooted in artificial divisions between groups. Justice and Truth help people recognize this reality. While Sin is something which infects Human thinking and will always exist in this life, it can be identified and remedied. With God’s guidance and Christ’s example, genuine Peace can become more present in families, communities, nations and the world. Although Human effort is required, it is something beyond the ability of individuals and communities to attain on their own and so Divine help is necessary.

            The conflicts in our world result in great suffering and often seem impossible to resolve. Many people feel unable to do anything about them. The world’s approach to Peace may provide a temporary respite but can also sow the seeds for the next conflict. Christ’s approach reminds all people a more lasting Peace is possible but requires a new way of thinking.

May 22, 2022

Old Testament

The scroll of the Prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written (Luke 4:17).

            When I was growing up, I heard a lot of stories about the Great Depression and World War II. All of the events described in the stories took place long before I was born. Most of the people in the stories were ones I had never met. Many of the places where the stories occurred were ones I had never visited. However, these stories fascinated me because they had an impact upon my life. If my grandfather had not moved from one town to another in New Brunswick, my parents would never have met. Unless my father became friends with someone in that town he would never have gotten a job at General Motors in Oshawa where I was born. If my parents had not lived in that poor place, they would not have been motivated to save every dollar they could so I would grow up in our house on Ravine Road. The experience showed me how stories about the past enabled me to understand the present and future.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus uses the Old Testament to launch his Ministry. By doing so, he indicates how these writings connect the past, present and future of God’s saving plan.

            The Jewish Scriptures/Old Testament from which Christ read were a collection of Sacred texts written over a period of eight centuries. These texts included: the Law (which outlined its content and how it came to the Jewish people); the Historical Books which recorded the central events in the History of the Jewish Nation after its settlement in the Promised Land); the Wisdom Writings which applied the insights of Scripture to everyday situations; and Prophetic Literature which provided warnings about the existence of Sin within Society and messages of Hope during difficult times from messengers from God. Each of these sets of Writings connected the Jewish people with their past. Yet, since the issues raised in them were perennial, they also spoke to the Community about their present and future. When Jesus read from the Prophet Isaiah, he not only reminded those in the Synagogue of what God stated centuries earlier. As people under Roman occupation and ruled by a Political and Religious elite primarily concerned about its interests, the text probably spoke to the frustrations and Hopes experienced by ordinary Jews. Christ’s promise about the fulfillment of this Prophecy raised expectations about their future. As he continued his Ministry, Jesus often communicated his Teachings with references to ideas and images found in the Old Testament. Luke also used citations from the Hebrew Scriptures when he interpreted the meaning of Christ’s Teachings and actions. Through these texts composed centuries earlier, Luke revealed how Jesus stressed the connections between God’s deeds in the past, present and future.

            Our Society has experienced change in quantity and quality on a massive scale over the past generation. One of the consequences of this development has been a lack of appreciation of the past. New versions of products come out so often people are unable to distinguish between a significant advancement and a minor improvement. Obsolete objects end up in garbage dumps while old ideas are disregarded without a second thought. Innovation is more highly valued than Wisdom accumulated over centuries of experience. Yet, many of the most basic problems faced by Humans are recurrent. Bad communication is more frequently due to a lack of empathy than poor Technology. During the 1960s, a time of turbulent change in the world and Church, Vatican II reintroduced Old Testament Readings for most Sunday Masses. Many Catholics found the Old Testament texts unsettling and had difficulty connecting them to their Faith in the Modern world. However, these stories which often need some explanation are those of our Religious ancestors. They identify issues, concepts and practices which are fundamental to our Faith. When properly understood they are as relevant to our present situation as they were at the time of Jesus. We are where we are with God today because of what these individuals did millennia ago.

            It has been decades since I heard those stories with which I grew up. Yet, they are seared into my memory and my life. I am the product of those past events, people and places. Whenever I read the Old Testament I realize those events, people and places have also shaped me.

January 23, 2022

Offerings

But Jesus said to the Disciples “You give them something to eat”. They said, “we have no more than fives loaves and two fish unless we are to go and buy food for all these people” (Luke 9:13).

            Some time ago, I was talking with a young man who was having difficulty concentrating during Sunday Mass. “Every week I try to focus on what I am doing but my mind starts to think about problems at work or one of my kids begins getting restless and I get distracted”, he stated. I responded by asking him what he thought he offered to God each time he came to Mass. “Not much”, the man answered. “But, what if God thinks the fact you are there with your kids and are attempting to pay attention is enough”, I replied. “Maybe instead of offering God perfection, all you need to give is yourself as you are and He will do the rest”.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus feeds a crowd of five thousand men with the five loaves and two fish provided by his disciples. By doing so, he demonstrates offerings which may appear inadequate to humans may be sufficient for God.

            The Jewish Law had stringent regulations about offerings made in the Jerusalem Temple. It prohibited the use of blind or deformed animals for use in Ritual Sacrifice. The Law prevented offerings made by Priests who suffered from certain disabilities. In addition, each Priest purified himself from Sin before a Ritual Sacrifice because this action removed any Spiritual flaws from the oblation. These rules highlighted the connection between the effectiveness of an offering and how close it came to perfection. During his Ministry, Jesus changed the emphasis from external to internal factors. It was those things which came from within a person (motivations or values) which influenced his or her relationship with God and the effectiveness of any Religious action. When the Twelve heard Christ’s comment about the hungry crowd, their reply was reasonable. The five loaves and two fish (likely their supper) was an insufficient amount of food for such a large crowd. Yet, they offered it anyway. The apparent inadequacy of their offering, combined with the limited enthusiasm with which they made it was sufficient for Jesus. He fed the crowd with the loaves and fish and there were twelve baskets of food left over. Christ proved there were no limits on what was possible for any offering made to God.

            Our Society places a high value on perfection. Many people spend a great deal of money and time to achieve the “perfect look”. They notice the tiniest flaw in a product and refuse to buy it. These individuals will complain loudly about the slightest inconvenience while being served in a business. This high standard causes many people to feel disappointed when their best effort doesn’t achieve it. While most individuals know it is unlikely they will ever attain perfection in any endeavour, the pressure to do so can be intense. Catholics and other people of Faith struggle with the expectation to be perfect. Sadly, some think God will not love them unless they become Spiritually perfect. Yet, this passage reveals Jesus is comfortable with Human imperfections. He realized the offering made by the Twelve was completely inadequate. But, when it was combined with his power it could do extraordinary things. In the same way, God does not expect those at Mass to always have perfect attention all the time. Christ was Human. He knows how the Human Mind works. It gets distracted easily by thoughts about tensions at work, family problems or past mistakes. Sitting still during Mass is a learned behaviour. Some children have a hard time doing it. Do you think Jesus didn’t have to deal with crying babies while he was Preaching? When we offer to God our true selves, warts and all, our relationship with him grows because it is based on authenticity, one of the most essential qualities he expects from a Disciple. The Mass provides us with an opportunity to encounter Christ in a Material way: we receive his Body and Blood. This Physical contact reminds us he shared our existence with all its imperfection. Every time we join in that Celebration, we offer up our entire selves: our experiences; problems; doubts; limitations; and unite them with him. In return, we receive the reassurance thar what we give him might be imperfect but sufficient and the Graces we need to keep going in a challenging world.

            In this passage, we are reminded that while the world strives for perfection in this life, we can live without it. Jesus accepted his Disciples’ actions even when they were inadequate and he accepts our imperfect offerings. We follow him and not the world because we know perfection is not found in this life but the next one.

June 19, 2022

New Normal

Jesus said to them, “Children, you have no fish, have you?” They answered, “No.” (John 21:5).

            I am someone who likes routine. Each day I get up at the same time. I eat pretty much the same thing for breakfast. I go for a walk about the same time every day. The television shows I watch, clothes that I purchase, kind of books I read haven’t changed much in quite a while. Many people think I am boring. But, I like it that way. This approach to life helps me to stay organized, focused and productive. My routine enables me to establish a “normal” which I find comforting. Yet, there are times when my routine is disrupted and I have learned to deal with it. Sometimes, these disruptions become permanent like when I learned I was diabetic and had to alter my diet. Adjusting to a “new normal” means acquiring a new way of thinking and acting.

            In this passage from John, seven Disciples encounter the Risen Jesus while fishing on the Sea of Galilee. The event starts the process by which they learn about their “new normal.”

            During Christ’s Earthly Ministry, his Disciples: followed him; heard his Teachings; and witnessed his Miracles. This was their “normal.” After the Passion and Death of Jesus their “new normal” looked bleak. They expected persecution by the Jewish Authorities and so hid behind a locked door. When Jesus appeared to them on Easter Evening, this outlook underwent a radical change. As he: expressed words of Peace; showed them his hands and side; gave them a Mission; and breathed the Holy Spirit upon them; they realized their relationship with Jesus was not over. His re-appearance to Thomas one week later reinforced the reality of Christ’ Resurrection. Their “new normal” combined Hope with uncertainty. These experiences probably overwhelmed them and Peter sought comfort through a return to his “old normal”: fishing. When this attempt failed (they caught no fish) the Risen Christ’s appearance led them back to their “new normal.” While this “new normal” eventually led to Peter’s death it was the right direction for his life because he fulfilled God’s plan. Christ knew his Disciples needed time before they adjusted their thoughts and actions to this “new normal” and so he was patient with them.

            Most of us look fondly on the “old normal” of the world before the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It isn’t that the suffering of the refugees fleeing the conflict is much worse than that of people trying to escape from the wars in Syria, Yemen or Myanmar; it’s just that so many more Canadians are related to the victims. The Economic costs of the sanctions imposed by the West and assisting the refugees are rising. Ukraine also borders several nations who are members of NATO which Canada has pledged to defend if they are attacked. The possible spread of the war into them and use of Chemical or Nuclear Weapons by Russia has many people concerned. The stability and Peace associated with the Post-Cold War “old normal” is fading quickly. The “new normal” appears unsettling. Over the coming years, our Faith in ourselves and God’s Providence and Hope for the future will be tested. Catholics and other people of Faith have experienced the temptation of going back to the “old normal.” Familiar ways of thinking about how God acts in the world or Spiritual Practices bring comfort and security. Yet, God constantly pushes them into situations where the old ways don’t work. It takes a while to come up with new understandings of where God is leading them and additional time to become comfortable with the “new normal”. When single people get married or a couple has their first child, the “old normal” is not coming back. But as he was beside the Sea of Galilee, Jesus comes to reveal to them the “new normal” is where they belong because God wants them there. It is a test of Faith but they can pass it.

            As a person who likes routine, it is hard for me to get used to any “new normal” whether it is something different for breakfast or the International Order. As someone who lived through the Cold War, I have experienced the tensions we are likely to encounter in the coming years. I am more comfortable with the “old normal” of the past thirty years than what likely lies ahead. Yet, turbulent times have often caused me to grow in ways I did not think was possible. During those periods, I became more aware of God’s presence and my need for him. Both individually and collectively, the “new normal” will take some time to understand and accept. As I struggle with the challenge, I know I am not alone. Somehow, that make it seem less overwhelming.

May 1, 2022

Neighbour

But wanting to justify himself, the lawyer asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29).

             When I was young, my parents told me not to talk to strangers. They did so to protect me because I was not old enough to distinguish between people who might pose a threat to me and those with whom I would be safe. One consequence of this advice was that I became suspicious of anyone who seemed different from me. I separated people into groups of those with whom I interacted and those I avoided. When I started school and got to know more people this attitude changed. I began to recognize how distinctions between people can be a good thing and what we have in common is more important than what makes us different.

            In this passage from Luke, a Lawyer asks Jesus who is his neighbour. Through his reply Jesus indicates how differences among people can prevent them from perceiving others as their neighbour.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, the term “neighbour” described the people with whom one lived. While the expression primarily meant other Jews, Gentiles received some security from the Law as Resident Aliens. According to Leviticus, Love of one’s neighbour was a basic principle of Religious and Social Life. The Jewish Law prohibited offences like perjury, deception in trade, Murder and Adultery for this reason. Wisdom Literature advised generosity to one’s neighbour and the maintenance of peaceful relations with them. The Prophets urged Justice towards them as well as honest decisions on their behalf. Such obligations were a Religious duty imposed by God and a means for the maintenance of Social harmony. When Christ responded to the Lawyer’s question about the Greatest Commandment, he indicated his Teachings continued this Tradition. However, the Lawyer’s second question, about who was his neighbour, separated people into those who deserved attention and those safely ignored. Among the latter group were likely public sinners like Prostitutes and Tax Collectors and the Religiously suspect such as the Samaritans. In the Parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus illuminated the artificial nature of such differences, as the Samaritan saw someone in need rather than a member of any specific group. Unlike the Priest and Levite, the risk of Ritual impurity caused by contact with a wound or the possibility of an attack by hidden robbers was of no concern. In addition, the animosity between Samaritans and Jews was irrelevant. Through the story, Christ indicated the Law allowed no such differences, which reflected God’s Universal Love for all people. It established a standard for the Disciples’ behavior in daily life.

            Our world likes to create differences between people. In Economic terms they are Poor, Middle Class or Rich. When it comes to Politics, they are Liberal or Conservative. Socially, they are Progressive or Traditional. Within the Religious sphere they are Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Atheist or another category. Once everyone is classified, they are expected to conform to a certain way of thinking and acting. Others make judgments about them based upon these expectations. Yet, such an approach is simplistic. All rich individuals do not have the same attitude towards money. Political Conservatives may not always agree about certain questions of public policy. There is a diversity of opinion among Christians about Moral issues. In addition, differences can subtly de-humanize some groups of people. While most individuals recognize the basic Humanity of everyone, which makes them a neighbour, their actions often send a different message. The refugees from Ukraine are helped quickly because they look like Canadians and may have relatives who live here while those from the Democratic Republic of Congo must wait. Such subtle differences separate others into real and theoretical neighbors. As with the Lawyer’s question, they reveal a desire to get around the Universal nature of the Commandment to Love one’s neighbour. Catholics and other people of faith must struggle against the desire to adopt the world’s definition of who is a neighbour. The Samaritan was conscious of the differences which existed within the world at that time. Unlike the Priest and Levite, the Humanity of the man left by the robbers overrode such concerns. In the same way, Catholics are called to assist those who are of a different Economic, Political, Social or Religious category. They must risk being used, misunderstood or inconvenienced by those they help. It will cost them time and money. Yet, it will also reveal they establish no differences about who is their neighbour and they truly seek to live out what Jesus taught.

            Christ’s Teaching about the Greatest Commandment indicates a key concept of our Faith. Love of God requires love of neighbour; love of neighbour demonstrates love of God. Love, to will the good of the other, demands a total commitment. It eliminates all loopholes established by artificial Human differences. This Teaching is the basis upon which the life of every Disciple is founded. Each thought and action seeks to demonstrate everyone is a neighbour.

July 10, 2022

Love

Jesus said to his disciples “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another (John 13:34).

            Some time ago, I asked a group of students to define the word Love. Most of them called it an emotion which made them happy. However, one of them considered Love to be a decision. When I asked him what he meant by the word he replied, “making and keeping a commitment”. Since keeping a commitment placed limits on one’s freedom to do other things which made one happy, I continued, was not Love something which reduced happiness? “Not, if what you Love is worth it”, he responded. Clearly, many people have different understandings of Love and how it is related to happiness.

            In this passage from John, Jesus teaches his disciples they must Love one another as he has loved them. By doing so, he establishes a new understanding of Love and its relationship to happiness.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, the description of God’s relationship with the Jewish people used terms associated with Human Love. God’s bond with David, and through him Israel, resembled that of a father towards his son. Hosea portrayed God’s relationship with the Jewish people, despite their infidelities, as similar to that of a faithful husband to his wife. In the Song of Songs, the description of God’s Love for Israel expressed the passion and intimacy experienced by a lover for the beloved. Yet, Biblical Authors also realized how far God’s Love exceeded that of its Human counterpart. One identifying quality of God’s Love was its sacrificial nature. As Jesus told Nicodemus earlier in John’s Gospel, Love for the world was the reason God gave his only Son. It was this sacrifice which gained Eternal Life for Humanity. He repeated this idea to his Disciples when he taught them the greatest act of Love was when someone laid down  their life for their friends. On both occasions, Jesus prepared others for the example he provided through his Death on the Cross. This action demonstrated his commitment to the good of others through the use of his freedom and sacrifice of his happiness. Perfect Love required a complete surrender of self to God for a higher purpose.  Christ then made his example the norm by which Disciples measured their own commitment to Love. By their sacrifices for God and others, they introduced a new understanding of the word “Love” to the world.

            Our Modern world tends to measure the value of Love by what it does for the individual. When Love is thought of as an emotion, its worth depends on how it makes a person feel. Yet, emotions constantly fluctuate. If the pleasant feelings disappear, does Love end? In addition, the motives behind Loving actions become tentative. When a husband does something thoughtful for his wife, does he really want to make her happy or just enjoy the benefits which come from her good mood? If this need for personal happiness is taken even further protective actions might be introduced. Love becomes a 50-50 proposition where one’s contribution is determined by what one receives in return. Pre-Nuptial Agreements prior to Marriage become a simple exit strategy when one’s expectations are not met. Catholics and other people of Faith understand the short-sightedness of this approach to Love. Genuine Love requires being other-centered. God gave up his Son solely for the Salvation of Humanity. Jesus died on the Cross in obedience to his Father’s Will and to gain Redemption for sinners. This is the foundation of the Catholic understanding of Love. It is a serious commitment which must be carefully considered before a decision is made about it. This commitment comes with a high price tag which may incur the loss of one’s life. In a world which measures value by what something does for me, it sounds like nonsense. However, for those whose standard is that of Christ, it is the way to Eternal happiness. What they Love is worth the commitment.

            Thomas Aquinas once said, “to love is to will the good of the other”. In this passage from John, Jesus gave his Disciples a new understanding of Love and its connection to happiness. His future death on the Cross would cause him much pain. Yet, this suffering would be tempered by the knowledge that through it the way to Eternal happiness would be opened for those whom he loved. For those who follow him, the happiness which comes from Love is associated with what benefits others.

May 15, 2022

Lord's Prayer

Jesus said to his disciples “When you pray, say ‘Father, hallowed be your name. Your Kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us. And do not bring us to the time of trial’” (Luke 11:2-4).

            Some time ago I was offering Prayers at a Funeral Home. Shortly after I began, it became obvious most of those present were not interested in what I was doing. Only a few people knew the responses. Many looked at their cell phones or stared off into space as I preached. Yet, when I started the “Our Father” everyone joined in the Prayer. Clearly, there was something about the Lord’s Prayer which resonated even with people who were marginally Religious.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus teaches his Disciples the most important Prayer in the Christian Spiritual Tradition: the Our Father. By doing so, he provides them with a crucial lesson about Prayer in their lives.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, Formal and Informal Prayer was a central part of daily life for Jews. Formal Prayers marked the opening and closing of every day. On the Sabbath, Jews offered special Prayers in the: home; Synagogue; or Temple. Major feasts such as Passover had their own set of established Prayers, frequently taken from the Old Testament. For personal or specific needs, the people offered Informal Prayers. These Prayers reflected a Belief God heard Human petitions and responded to them. They also trusted in certain Divine qualities. As revealed in Genesis, Abraham’s intercession on behalf of Sodom assumed God’s mind could remain open to other possibilities. It also implied Divine Justice avoided the punishment of the Righteous with the wicked. Jesus expanded on these principles in the Lord’s Prayer. God was a Father whose holy name and Kingdom were open to all individuals. His concern for the Material needs of his children (like bread) and their Spiritual ones (such as Forgiveness) demonstrated his openness and responsiveness to Human supplications. His Justice required the practice of mercy toward others from those who received it from God. In addition, Divine Assistance protected one during times of trial. In his lessons after the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus emphasized the importance of persistence in Prayer which implied God’s Providence, even when delayed, always arrived and exceeded Human expectations. Clearly, Christ illustrated Prayer kept Disciples connected to God in every situation they faced in life.

            Christ’s Teaching of the Lord’s Prayer highlights how it can bring a person in almost any situation closer to God. Our Society’s efforts to make Religion a private matter frequently causes Christians to feel isolated from one another. The “Our Father” reminds them they remain part of a Community. In a world where power is identified with money, connections or force, Christians often think they have no influence on it. The Lord’s Prayer is a reminder they are the precursors of God’s final triumph on earth. Within a Society which views individualism and self-sufficiency as the way to attain Material security, Christians may be tempted to look out for themselves first. The “Our Father” is a reminder trusting in Divine Providence yields much better results. Living in a world which sees the need for forgiveness as a sign of weakness, Christians may be tempted to deny their sinfulness. The Lord’s Prayer reminds them of their need for God’s forgiveness and to extend mercy to others. This ability to connect with the lived experience of so many people makes this Prayer a core element in the Spiritual Life of all Christians.

                By meditating on the words of the “Our Father” Catholics can deepen their appreciation of this Prayer. Prayer is meant to connect us with God. It involves offering up whatever a person is experiencing at that moment. Meditation on the words of the Lord’s Prayer can help one place that experience into a proper context. After coming to a decision about something, reflecting on the words “your will be done” helps determine whether it fits into God’s plan. Upon recognizing a need, pondering on the words “Give us this day our daily bread” reminds us of the source of all we need. When dealing with a difficult person, contemplating the words “forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us” recalls the standard by which we obtain God’s forgiveness.

Such meditation enables us to make God a greater part of our daily lives. Let how we pray the “Our Father” demonstrate our ability to appreciate its Spiritual richness.

            As my experience at the Funeral Home indicated, the Lord’s Prayer still has the ability to reach people who seem disconnected from the Faith. This ability is why it has such an important place in our Catholic Tradition.

July 24, 2022

Light

Jesus said, “I have come as light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me should not remain in the darkness” (John 12:46).

            At this time of year, light is something we take for granted. When I go out for my daily walk, I see more people: cutting the grass; preparing their garden for planting; and gathering the dead branches lying on their lawn. The warmer temperatures combined with the longer sunlight after Supper gives individuals the chance to do chores that have been postponed since last Fall. Living in Canada, where six months from now it will be dark by 5:00 PM helps us appreciate the gift of this extra light.

            In this passage from John, Jesus teaches some Jews “I have come as light into the world”. By doing so, he uses a metaphor which stresses how he can help people see the truth about God.

            During Christ’s lifetime, light was a valuable commodity. Since the sun was the primary source of light for people, most of their activities occurred during the daytime hours and few left their homes after dark. Those who travelled at night were dependant on torches or lamps which made them vulnerable to bandits and other threats. Indoors, the only illumination available came from a fireplace or lamp. Old Testament Writers recognized the importance and scarcity of light and often associated it with Wisdom and Holiness. As light guided one safely to a destination, so Wisdom and Holiness brought one through life to eternal happiness. When Jesus told the crowd he came as light into the world, he indicated acceptance of him and his message recognized the difference between Knowledge and Ignorance. Acceptance identified a perception of the truth which led to Eternal Life with God. Rejection revealed a preference for ignorance which led to Eternal Condemnation in the Final Days when the fullness of truth was disclosed. As light ended darkness; so truth expelled ignorance. The truth Jesus revealed depended not on Human Wisdom or Political power but Divine authority. Since like darkness, ignorance and evil were a common experience, the light of truth often seemed weak and fragile. Yet, because truth came from God, falsehood and Sin were no match for it. Its power was infinite and eternal.

            During this Covid 19 Pandemic, Catholics and other people of faith comprehend how the light of truth can overpower the darkness of ignorance. Sin and falsehood have never gone out of fashion. The bad guys often get away with murder. As the number of Covid 19 Cases and Deaths rise and tensions around the world with them, the temptation to hide in the darkness and ignore the light of truth becomes even stronger. Catholics and other people of Faith know there is right and wrong. They know they will be held accountable for their deeds. They know the truth which God revealed will prevail in the end. As Catholics, we know Christ taught us to love our enemies and pray for our persecutors. He told us we must: feed the hungry; cloth the naked; visit the sick and imprisoned; and fight for what is right. He never said we could use Covid 19 as an excuse for not doing so.

            When Jesus lived on earth, he was the light which came into the world. Now that he has returned to his Father in Heaven we are that light. Do we appreciate this great gift? Can people see it burning within us? If not, we need to re-kindle that light so the darkness and fear which has accompanied the Virus doesn’t overwhelm our world.

May 6, 2020

Lethargy

The people spoke against God and against Moses “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food an no water and we detest this miserable food” (Num. 21:5).

            Whenever I arrive at a new Parish assignment, I always feel a rush of energy. There are: new people to meet; new things to learn; and new chances to contribute something to the Parish. There is a freshness about the situation which gives me energy. As time goes by, (regardless of the assignment) things start to become routine. Problems arise which I had not anticipated. Soon, everything becomes a grind and it requires a lot of energy just to keep going. The freshness and enthusiasm I once had is gone. One thing I have learned from these experiences is it often takes something dramatic to jolt me out of my lethargy.

            In today’s passage from Numbers, the people grumble “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in this wilderness?” By doing so, they reveal how quickly they have forgotten all the things God had recently done for them and succumbed to lethargy.

            Throughout the Exodus Story, God demonstrated repeatedly his concern for the Israelites. Their liberation from slavery in Egypt was the result of the Miracles God worked through Moses. When the Egyptian Army trapped them by the Red Sea, God parted the waters and enabled their escape. After the people complained about the lack of meat for food, God sent large numbers of quail which they caught and ate. At Meribah, when the Israelites grumbled about a lack of water for themselves and their flocks, God met their needs when Moses struck the rock with his staff. However, despite these signs of Divine Providence, the routine and hardships caused by their trip across the desert dissipated the energy and freshness they likely felt when they first left Egypt. It led to rebellions and complaints similar to the one in today’s passage which were directed at God and demonstrated their short memories. God’s reaction, the poisonous serpents, jolted the people out of their lethargy. They recognized their lack of trust in God was a Sin and repented. In return, God provided some relief: anyone bitten by a serpent and who gazed at the bronze serpent on the pole was saved. Yet, the presence of the serpents (God never killed them) was a reminder to the people lethargy and complacency were problems which required constant attention.

            During this Covid 19 Pandemic, lethargy has become a real challenge for many people. In the first few days, they adjusted to the disruptions which resulted from the need for self-isolation and closing of non-essential Businesses. With extra time on their hands, some started their Spring Cleaning or did chores around the house they had been postponing for a while. Others watched a lot of television or Netflix. As time passed, things changed as they became restless being cooped up in the house. Whatever energy they had with all this extra time was gone. They started going to the store for non-essential items and visiting family or friends despite the warning from Public Health Officials against doing so. Then, they would be jolted out of their lethargy. Someone they knew was admitted to Hospital because of the Virus. The number of Covid 19 Cases and Deaths in the province or city increased dramatically. All of a sudden. the Pandemic became real for them in a way it wasn’t previously.

            Medical Experts tell us our present situation is going to continue for a while. The number of people who get the Virus or die from it will likely continue to rise. School closures have been extended. States of Emergency will not end as soon as was hoped. They are now talking in terms of months or years before things get better. Catholics and all people of Faith know the challenges of maintaining the energy and freshness in their Spiritual Life. Praying can just become saying the words. In Confession, the same sins get repeated again and again. Charitable actions are seen as a duty. It is so easy to become complacent. As the Israelites discovered, every once in a while God jolts us out of our lethargy and complacency through some harsh experience. Perhaps Covid 19 is for us what the poisonous serpents were for them: a wake-up call.

            As people of Faith, we have hopefully developed the discipline to recognize when we are becoming lethargic and complacent in different parts of our life. This discipline will then give us the energy and freshness to serve others at a time when it could save them and our Faith Life.

March 31, 2020

Late

The thief said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luke 23:42).

            When I was growing up, I had a friend who was five minutes late for everything. Some of the Teachers at school nicknamed him “Better late than never.” However, despite his tardiness he never failed to show up for any commitment. It was just that he was five minutes late.

            In this passage from John, one of the criminals asks Jesus to remember him when he comes into the Kingdom. By doing so, he indicates that it is never too late to be saved.

            During Christ’s lifetime, groups of people in Israel revolted against Roman Rule on a few occasions. The rebellions were usually a response to high taxes or some oppressive action taken by the Government against a local Community. These revolts frequently involved a few hundred individuals led by someone local and always ended in failure. Barabbas and the criminals killed with Jesus likely participated in such a rebellion. Some Jews probably saw Jesus as the leader of a similar kind of Movement. While one thief sought earthly rescue from his situation, the other’s concern went beyond himself. Christ’s execution was unjust. He was no criminal. Although the Good Thief’s Theology was likely incomplete it recognized the truth when presented with it. As he awaited death, he appealed for mercy from Jesus. He was a sinner and acknowledged it. In his response, Jesus revealed it was never too late for Salvation.

            Modern Society has an ambiguous approach to punctuality. People expect others to be on  time but ask for patience when they are late. They do not like to wait in line and often walk away after only a brief time of doing so. Schedules pack too many events into not enough time. While it is convenient when things occur on time it is more important they actually happen. Catholics and other people of Faith understand Life operates according to God’s timetable not their own. It often takes longer than they like for things to occur. They may get nervous that maybe what they want to happen never does. However, the important things always occur because they are part of God’s plan. The Good Thief in today’s passage was probably in the last moments of his life when the most important event in it happened: better late than never.

            Perhaps my friend knew something it took me years to learn. The most important thing is to show up. If Jesus can wait so can other people.

April 10, 2022

Laity

After this, the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go” (Luke 10:1).

            When I was a boy, the Priest did almost everything during Mass. He offered the prayers, read the Scriptures, distributed Communion and made the announcements by himself. The only other people who had a role to play in the Liturgy were the Altar Boys who served the Priest and Ushers who took up the Collection and gave out Bulletins when Mass was over. However, after the Second Vatican Council, everything changed. Parishioners did all the Readings except for the Gospel, offered the General Intercessions and helped the Priest distribute Communion. They also started helping with Baptismal and Marriage Preparation, organizing Parish Spiritual events and visiting the schools. While some Parishioners were resistant to this change, the majority accepted it because they recognized the Priests needed the help and there were all these talented people in the Parish who wanted to help them. Since that time, the role of the Laity in Parish Ministry has grown and is better understood and appreciated by the whole Community.

            In this passage from Luke, Jesus sends out seventy Disciples ahead of him to help in his Ministry. By doing so, he foreshadows the role of the Laity in the work of the Church.

            During Christ’s lifetime, within the Jewish Community there existed a number of clearly defined roles. Priests offered sacrifice in the Jerusalem Temple. Levites performed a number of Religious and Administrative tasks which at one point included the: collection of taxes, control of admission to the Temple; and provision of those items required for Worship Services. Rabbis were those who: provided Religious Instruction’ the Interpretation of the Law; and led Religious Worship in the Synagogue. Scribes produced copies of the Law and frequently provided some Interpretation of it. However, the vast majority of Jews fell into none of these categories. Their participation in the Spiritual Life of the Community consisted mostly: of observance of the Law; reception of Religious Instruction; and supplication of Sacrificial Offerings. In addition, one’s role in Judaism depended upon one’s ancestry. Priests and Levites belonged to particular family groups. For this reason, Christ’s approach to Ministry challenged Traditional ideas. Normally, Disciples sought out Rabbis for their Religious Instruction. According to Luke, Jesus called the Twelve and later the Seventy. His first Disciples were fisherman who likely had little Religious formation and no connection to the families of Priests or Levites. When his Followers fulfilled their obligations to the Jewish Law, they observed not just correct procedures but also the proper “Spirit”. Disciples also participated in the active process of Evangelization which differed from the passive nature of the Ministerial roles in Judaism because within it Conversion was not very common. Thus, Christ introduced a new understanding of the roles in Ministry when he sent out the Seventy on their Mission.

            Within our Modern Society, roles have been changing in various ways. Women are now doing jobs in Society that have been traditionally done by men and vice versa. The roles of father and mother in families have become more flexible with many tasks shared between parents. In many companies, work has become collaborative with the roles of supervisor and subordinate more blended. As was mentioned earlier, roles in the Church have also changed as the Laity take on some roles which in the past were reserved for Priests and Bishops. This has given the Church access to a greater pool of talent and experience in order to address the problems it faces in these times. While this change in the role of the Laity has been important there is another equally vital one which is often overlooked. The Church’s Mission is to establish the Kingdom of God in the world. Laypeople interact with that world on a regular basis. They can accomplish the Church’s Mission by how they fulfill their roles: at work; in the marketplace; and at home. If their actions are shaped by Catholic Teachings whether about: the dignity of all individuals; the demands of Justice; or personal Morality they make Jesus present in our Secular world. The difference that exists between how Catholics think and act and the rest of the world will often generate hostility. But it demonstrates there is another way to address the issues of our time and might start some interesting conversations. It also shows Religious Beliefs are not extinct and can contribute to the Common Good. By living out their Faith in daily life and offering their talents and experience in the more Traditional Ministerial roles, the Laity can make the Church thrive in the future.

            The changes in the role of the Laity in the Church since Vatican II have been a blessing. In both Traditional Ministries and interacting with the world, Laypeople have provided a wealth of ideas and service from which all Catholics have benefitted. In the future, there will probably be additional changes concerning roles in the Church. Whatever challenges the Church faces in the future, the talents and experience of the Laity will help meet them.

July 3, 2022

Judgments

The Scribes and Pharisees said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery” (John 8:4).

            There was a time when Adultery was a big deal. It was judged a serious offence because it usually ended relationships and damaged individuals. Yet, within these judgments there existed a double standard. If the action became public knowledge, the woman’s reputation was often ruined. If it resulted in a pregnancy, she had to raise the child on her own with little help from the man, her family or friends. While the action might injure the man’s reputation, in time he could move on with his life. Today, few people see Adultery as a serious offence. The two participants are treated in roughly the same manner. Although many people judge the offence is victimless, the hidden emotional damage done to those affected by it can be significant. Clearly, judgments about actions like Adultery can sometimes be as wrong as the action itself.

            In this passage from John, the Scribes and Pharisees bring a woman caught in the act of Adultery to Jesus for judgment. By doing so, they provide him with an opportunity to teach an important lesson about the damage caused by sinful judgments.

            Within the Jewish Law, Adultery was any Sexual activity between a married or betrothed woman and a man other than her husband. It was a serious sin equivalent to idolatry. Since the Law treated the wife as the property of her husband, Adultery was a sin committed against him. Punishment for those guilty of the offence was death with the first stone thrown by the wronged husband. Since knowledge of the identity of the father of each child insured a legitimate heir for the family property, the Law served a key Social and Economic function. The Law also judged a betrothed woman seized by a man within a town as guilty because she raised no alarm whereas if the incident occurred in the country, it regarded her as innocent and the man as guilty. Clearly, while the Law recognized the gravity of the offence its judgment placed the woman at a distinct disadvantage.

            When confronted by the Scribes and Pharisees, Christ was likely aware of the precarious situation faced by any woman accused of Adultery. His initial silence provided an opportunity for the consideration of some questions. Where was the man who also committed the offence or the husband; the one most injured by it? Clearly, the Scribes and Pharisees had no interest in Justice. The woman was a weapon in an attack on Jesus. In his reply, Jesus showed their corrupt motives and actions forfeited any right to judgment. Their use of the Jewish Law and the woman for their own purposes were also serious sins. By their withdrawal from the scene, they conceded their position was indefensible. They too were sinners. Yet, as Jesus made clear to the woman, judgment involved Justice and Mercy. It required a recognition of the gravity of the sin and a firm purpose of amendment in return for Forgiveness. Correct judgment neither trivialized the offence nor the humanity of the sinner.

            Lent is the Season when Catholics are invited to consider their judgments about Serious Sins. The flood of stories in the Media about murder, theft and adultery frequently desensitizes people to the gravity of such offences. Social Commentators attempt to rationalize these actions. In spite of efforts to trivialize such activities, the Church teaches they are always wrong for two reasons. First, even with apparently “victimless” sins like Adultery and Fornication, individuals are hurt by them. Trust is essential for any serious relationship. When it is violated, people are harmed even if they try to hide the damage. Catholics understand they are called to love others which implies a commitment to do no harm. Second, all Serious Sins hurt the perpetrator. Individuals are made in the image and likeness of God. They are not prisoners of their instincts but have the capacity to reason right from wrong and Divine Grace to strengthen their resolve to do good. Any Serious Sin prevents a person from living up to their potential. While all Catholics sin, they know when they do so they become someone other than their true selves: an individual in a love relationship with Christ. Despite what Society might think, a Serious Sin is a serious injury to others and us.

            During Lent, we have the chance to reflect on how we understand Sin and our judgments about it. We need to see Sin as serious business. Yet, we must also perceive its Human dimension. When making judgments about it, we need to avoid the temptation to pursue our own agendas. The woman caught in Adultery committed a Serious Sin. The Pharisees saw her as a weapon to be used rather than a Human Being. Our judgments about Sin should focus on the damage caused by it to the victim, perpetrator and the Community before determining how it conflicts with the Law.

April 3, 2022