Children

Herod sent and killed all the children in and around Bethlehem who were two years old or under (Matthew 2:16).

            Whenever a charity is trying to raise money or a television journalist is covering a war, natural disaster or famine, their presentation often contains scenes of suffering children. These images drive home the tragic effects of some event by appealing to our emotions. Children are vulnerable and require protection. The viewer wants to help them. Yet, this vulnerability is what makes them an attractive target for tyrants. If you want to force adults to comply with a demand, threaten their children. Another way is to manipulate children to turn against their parents before the young realize what they have done. In wars, famines and extreme poverty it is often children who suffer the most: the last to get medical care, food or shelter. They are reduced to begging or being exploited to survive. They are considered expendable.

            In this text from Matthew, King Herod kills all children two years of age and under living in and around Bethlehem in an effort to eliminate the “infant king of the Jews”. By doing so, he indicates how even children were not protected from his ruthless desire for power.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament children were perceived as both a blessing and a burden. Besides the joy associated with new life, they embodied the next generation of the family and extended God’s covenant with it into the future. Children also represented a source of labour for the household and support for parents in their old age. Many children within a family was considered a sign of divine favour. Like widows, orphans received some protection from the Jewish Law and God was especially concerned about them. However, caring for children was an enormous responsibility. During difficult times, like a war or famine, a child was another mouth to feed. Although they were expected to obey their parents, intergenerational tensions frequently arose, especially among the elite. Absolom rebelled against his father, King David, and tried to seize the throne. Yet, the vulnerability of young children was recognized across the generations.

            Matthew’s account of Herod’s killing of the children of Bethlehem highlights the contrast between his power and their vulnerability. Historians tell us Herod was ruthless in his dealings with anyone who appeared to threaten his power. He killed numerous members of his immediate family (wives, sons and daughters-in law) who had plans to replace him in the future. Herod also brutally crushed the efforts of Jewish nationalists to drive the Romans from their territory. Since his family was only half-Jewish, he used construction projects like renovations and additions to the Jerusalem Temple to win support from the people in Judah. The arrival of the wise men from the East and their search for an “infant king of the Jews” would have caught his attention. Once he found this child, another threat to his power would be eliminated. If vulnerable children who were in no way connected to this situation had to die in the process, it mattered little to Herod. Their defencelessness made it easier for him to accomplish his plan. The story of the “slaughter of the innocents” fit perfectly with Herod’s personality and behaviour.

            During this Covid 19 Pandemic, the contrast between the experiences of the powerful and vulnerable is also conspicuous. While many professionals and those in positions of authority can work remotely from the relative safety of home, the clerks who stock shelves in crowded grocery stores, the cleaners who work in Hospitals or Long-Term Care Facilities where the virus is extant and those employed at Fast-Food Restaurants which allow take out orders face increased risk of contracting the virus. They often do not have cars and must rely on public transportation where the chance of transmission is higher. Many do not live in single family homes but crowded high-rise buildings which are frequently not well cleaned or maintained. What is usually forgotten is that many of those who suffer because of these circumstances are children. Even if children are less likely to get the virus, a parent with Covid 19 will have difficulty providing the necessities and proper care for them. The number of cases of the virus and deaths caused by it is far greater among the poor and racial minorities than other Canadians. While many companies report high profits and pay dividends to their shareholders, these children are forgotten.

            This pandemic may provide Catholics and other people of faith with an opportunity to think more carefully about how our society treats the weak (especially children). Child poverty and food insecurity existed long before Covid 19. These issues can be addressed by our society through both government programs and private charity. On the individual level, a donation to a food bank or soup kitchen is at least a first step. It is also essential to listen to the hopes and fears of those who need our help and treat them with respect. They must know we see them as human beings and not just a social problem. If we do this, children whose experience in life is difficult will be reassured they are valued and can look forward to a better future.

            Children do not exist to make us feel sentimental or to be exploited. They are made in the image and likeness of God and must be treated that way. Although the power imbalance between the weak and strong is not as extreme as it was in the story of the “slaughter of the innocents” it is an obstacle which Catholics must work to overcome.

December 28, 2020

Witness

Jesus said to his disciples, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).

            There is a story about a young man who wanted to go to university. Since his family was poor, getting the money to pay for his education was a problem. His marks were average so his chances of getting a scholarship were not good. Although he worked part-time throughout High School, he was not able to save much money. If he took out a student loan, his father would have to co-sign it which would put another financial burden on his family. What he did not know was that his father was aware of his desire to go to school and had for years been working overtime at his factory and putting the extra money aside rather than spending it on himself. When the young man completed High School, his father told him the money was there for him to go to university. Clearly, this sacrifice was an effective way for the father to show his love for his son.

            In this text from John, Jesus teaches his disciples people will know they are his disciples by the love they have for one another. By doing so, he shows such devotion is a powerful witness to their faith.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament love was associated with several qualities.

One characteristic was the desire to be in relationship with the beloved. A second feature was an intense and lasting affection for that person. Another element of love was the showing of mercy or compassion towards a loved one. These qualities could exist in different relationships such as between a husband and wife, parent and child, relatives or friends. They were also identified with the bond formed between God and the Jewish people. Actions made love real. Jacob’s desire for Rachel was indicated when he agreed to serve her father Laban for seven years. Jonathan showed his love for David by protecting his friend from Saul’s anger. Joseph’s intention to extend mercy to his brothers so overwhelmed him it required him to leave their presence. These expressions of love had an effect on the one who initiated them, the recipient and those who witnessed them.

            John’s account of Christ’s teaching about the New Commandment identified the power of its public witness. Within the Jewish tradition, the command to love one’s neighbour had already been established. Jesus added a sacrificial quality to this love when he inserted the phrase “as I have loved you”. When he washed the feet of his disciples Jesus provided them with an example of this kind of love by sacrificing his dignity. Even Jewish slaves were not required to wash the feet of their masters. He would supply them with a more powerful sign of it when he sacrificed his life on the cross for the sins of humanity. Only in this way could the fullness of God’s love be expressed. These examples set a new standard for Christ’s disciples. As he sacrificed everything for them, so now they must offer up everything for others through concrete actions. The value of this kind of love would be recognized by the one giving it, because it tested one’s commitment to the beloved; receiving it, because it made one feel esteemed; and those who witnessed it because it demonstrated a willingness to place the good of another ahead of one’s own interest. It was this public dimension of sacrificial love which would provide non-believers with an effective witness to the Christian faith.

            During the Easter Season, Catholics have an opportunity to ponder how well their actions demonstrate their commitment to a sacrificial love for others. During Lent, individuals frequently make sacrifices, like not eating desert, as a penance for their sins. Yet, they do so grudgingly and the effectiveness of its public witness is limited. Other people will gladly give up the last piece of desert to allow someone else to enjoy it. Their attitude presents this act of sacrificial love in a far more positive light. During Holy Week, we recall the events surrounding the Passion and Death of Jesus, the perfect example of sacrificial love. At Easter, we remember the hope and joy which accompanies his Resurrection. Christ’s disciples are called to share the good news of what these events mean for humanity. They can do so successfully through the smallest sacrifices when they are done with a positive attitude. Placing the good of another person ahead of one’s convenience or comfort is counter-cultural in our individualistic society. It gets noticed for this reason. Yet, it follows the example of Jesus who even forgave his executioners as he was dying on the cross. It demands great commitment and attention to the small events in life to make this practice part of one’s routine and not dependent on one’s mood. Although our sacrifices may not be as great as Christ’s, when offered in a positive spirit, they can have a powerful effect.

            One way to assist Catholics in achieving this goal is to focus on the dignity of the person being helped. For many individuals, charitable deeds often consist of providing financial support or volunteer hours to a worthy cause. When the money comes from their excess income or spare time, the sacrificial element of the action is reduced. It can make the person being assisted seem anonymous. By contrast, when the money comes from not going out to dinner or the time from choosing to work in a soup kitchen rather than playing golf, the deed becomes more personal and likely to get noticed. It enables the giver to develop a relationship with the person helped. It is a tangible sign the dignity of those in need are more important than our own wants. In this way, we give public witness to this distinctive quality of Christian love.

May 19, 2019

Character

Simeon said to his mother Mary “This child is destined for the falling and rising of many in Israel” (Luke 2:34).

            There are certain points in History that are turning points, whether for a nation, parish or individuals. When a nation goes to war, there is usually one battle where the tide turns leading to victory or defeat. In a parish facing a major crisis, there is a moment when the community unites behind a plan to overcome it or falls apart. During a rough patch, a married couple has to choose whether they are still committed to each other or go their separate ways. These turning points are character defining moments. They decide the kind of nation, parish or individual a community or person really is despite how it is perceived by others or itself.

            In this text from Luke, Simeon tells Mary her son will be cause of the rising and falling of many in Israel. By doing so, he foretells how an individual’s character will be defined by that person’s response to Jesus.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament there were several religious leaders whose character was determined by how they responded to a crisis situation. King David, at the height of his power, committed adultery with Bethsheba and had her husband killed in battle. When the prophet Nathan confronted him about the crime, David had a decision to make: deny and further cover up the sin or admit it and seek forgiveness. By choosing the latter, he defined himself as a person of integrity and humility. After Queen Jezebel threatened to kill Elijah, the Prophet fled to Mount Horeb where he encountered God who told him to return to Israel. Elijah had to make a decision: remain in the safety of the wilderness or obey God and risk death. His choice to do the latter defined him as an individual of courage and fidelity. Jeremiah preached against the idolatry and unjust social conditions which existed within Judah during his lifetime. The response of the political and religious elites as well as the people was resentment, ridicule and even an attempt to kill him. Finally, the prophet even considered no longer proclaiming God’s message. He is faced with a decision: avoid further hostility or continue his mission. By choosing the latter he defines himself as a person of toughness and perseverance. In each case, it was an encounter with God under adverse conditions which defined the character of these leaders.

            Luke’s account of Simeon’s meeting with Mary suggested how an individual’s response to Jesus was also a character defining moment. After he had worked all night and caught no fish, Peter was asked by Jesus to set out on the sea again and let down his nets. Peter was faced with a decision: remain at the shore or obey an itinerant preacher who knew little about fishing. After he chose the latter and landed a large catch of fish, he understood his unworthiness before Jesus. Then the fisherman left everything and followed Christ. By his decisions, Peter defined himself as a person who was trusting and modest. When he met Jesus, the rich ruler was likely convinced his situation was secure: he had followed the Jewish Law all his life and had wealth and power. His piety and earthly success were linked. Yet, when Jesus challenged him to give up his wealth to gain Eternal Life, he became sad because this link was destroyed. He had a decision to make: trust in the security which comes from either earthly or heavenly things. His choice defined his character as someone who was possessive and self-interested. When the Jewish leaders brought Jesus before Pontius Pilate, the Roman knew the evidence presented to him was insufficient for a conviction. Yet, urged on by their leaders, the crowds wanted Jesus crucified. Pilate had to make a decision: uphold the Law or give in to the crowd. His choice demonstrated his character to be someone who was unjust and susceptible to pressure. In all three situations, Simeon’s prophecy that the character of an individual was defined by an interaction with Jesus proved correct.

            This Covid 19 pandemic will probably be a turning point in our History. It will define our character as nations, parishes and individuals. Medical researchers have displayed ingenuity and persistence in trying to produce an effective vaccine as quickly as possible. Health care workers have exhibited courage and professionalism in caring for patients while putting their own safety at risk. Ordinary people have demonstrated concern and altruism by checking in on their elderly and vulnerable neighbours. Yet, there are some who have shown no regard for the common good by disregarding measures which would limit the spread of the virus. Others have promoted false information which has undermined the efforts of medical experts to teach people about Co-vid 19. Another group has tried to make money during the pandemic by hoarding critical supplies or selling ineffective remedies. These actions define the character of the individuals doing them for good or bad. Our parishes and nations are also confronted with some important decisions. Do we allow our Covid 19 fatigue and desire to get things back to normal prompt us to forget about the health measures or continue to look out for each other? Do we care for those who have suffered economic hardship during the pandemic when they lost their jobs or businesses and assist them to recover or leave it up to “market forces”? Do we protect the vulnerable in our nation like those who risk exposure to the virus by stocking shelves in grocery stores or clean the rooms in Long Term Care facilities and get rewarded with low pay, no benefits and little job security, both now and after the crisis, or do we eliminate social programs so we can cut taxes? The decisions we make over the next months and years will define our character for generations to come.

            Turning points with their character defining potential don’t happen very often. When they do, we need to ask ourselves how we will respond to Jesus through our decisions and what they say about us.

February 2, 2021

Fixed Views

(The Jews) were saying, “Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, ‘I have come down from heaven?’” (John 6:42).

            Most people base their opinions on some supporting evidence. Whenever they encounter new information which undermines their view, they will frequently adjust their thinking. Yet, for some individuals, their opinions are so entrenched that even undeniable evidence will not change their minds. Instead, they rely on the information they have used in the past to support their view without admitting it has become obsolete. This prevents any alteration in their opinion and leads to a silo mentality where the individual cuts off any interaction with those who think differently.

            In this text from John, Jesus encounters some Jews who are so convinced they know his origins that nothing will alter their thinking. By doing so, they demonstrate how clinging to old information cuts them off from developing a deeper relationship with God.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament conversion was frequently associated with changing an individual’s or group’s orientation towards God. One impediment to this alteration, often called “hardness of heart”, was entrenched attitudes about religion and society. During the time of Amos, prosperity and security had convinced Israel’s religious and political elites, idol worship, the political appointment of Priests and unjust social conditions were acceptable. Each of these practices was a clear violation of God’s Law. When they were challenged by the prophet during his clash with Amaziah, the Priest of Bethel, the latter’s reaction implied a dependence on existing information: this was the king’s sanctuary and Amos lacked the qualifications to disturb the status quo. Amaziah completely ignored the undeniable truth of the prophet’s charges. Amos warned of the disastrous consequences of such infidelity and was proven right by later events. It was the fixed views of Amaziah and the elites which made conversion impossible and cut them off from God.

            John’s Bread of Life Discourse offers another example of the power of such entrenched opinions; in this case about Christ’s identity. After he fed a crowd with five loaves and two fish, the people wanted to make him king by force. When Christ asserted he was sent by God and the crowd must believe in him, it demanded a sign which was greater than Moses providing manna in the wilderness. After he proclaimed he was that sign, the bread descended from heaven, they refused to recognize him. When Jesus claimed to have come down from heaven, the people said they knew his origin because they were acquainted with his parents. In each case, the entrenched opinion of the crowd was that Jesus was a human leader who only operated within earthly limits. All his actions and teachings to present new information about his origins was rejected by the old data that the Messiah would be the one who would drive the Romans out of Israel, the supplying of manna by Moses was the greatest possible sign of God’s providence and that Jesus was simply the son of Joseph. Their rejection of new information made it impossible for them to understand Christ’s true origin, identity and mission and draw closer to God.

            Within our highly polarized society, many individuals have developed entrenched views about many subjects. They call any information which challenges their opinions “fake news” and only obtain data from sources which confirm their thinking. When confronted with new evidence which is undeniable, they repeat the old information upon which their thinking is based without looking at it critically. This approach has led to the rise of conspiracy theories where only a few people know the real truth while everyone else believes the lies told to them by sinister elites. In some cases, these theories can endanger the lives of particular individuals and groups. They also undermine the fabric of society which makes working to solve common problems impossible.

            Sadly, this tendency also exists within the Church. Entrenched opinions about issues such as the Latin Mass or Vatican II have divided our faith community into factions who denounce the thinking of those with whom they disagree. People only converse with individuals who share the same views. Information is only obtained from sources who confirm their opinions. New data is viewed with suspicion. The desire for unity within the Church is equated with conformity to the faction’s outlook. This inclination leads to a form of Gnosticism within the Church where only a spiritual elite have the full truth revealed by God.

            However, Christ and prophets like Amos constantly challenged entrenched thinking. God is a mystery which humans will never completely understand. New experiences and information will prompt questions and new ways of thinking about what God has revealed. Conversion is not a one-time event where people come to believe in God but a life-long process of growth in their relationship with Him. Fixed thinking can be an obstacle to this development. Factions contradict the Catholicity of the Church. Not all new ideas bring us closer to God; but some will do so. The Church has been most effective when it has listened to and debated them before they were either accepted or rejected. Conversion can benefit from conversations which include different views.

            Entrenched thinking makes individuals comfortable. New information can threaten this comfort. But, sometimes growth can only take place when we consider it and allow God to guide us to a closer relationship with Him.

August 8, 2021

Certainty

Jesus said to his disciples, “I will ask the Father and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you and he will be in you” (John 14:16-17).

            A while ago, I was talking with a parishioner about how Church teachings have evolved over the years. “In the past”, the man said, “everything was black or white. The Church taught a Catholic should not attend Protestant services and you never went to one. Today, we frequently go to Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals in their Churches. Is there nothing certain, anymore?” I replied by noting that as the Church interacts with the world it obtains insights about what is true. It uses these insights to better understand what Jesus taught. The end result of this process is that its teachings evolve so they can better convey with certainty the truth about God.

            In this text from John, Jesus tells his disciples the Father will send them the Advocate, the Spirit of the truth, who will abide in them. By doing so, the Holy Spirit will ensure they know the truth about God with certainty.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, the truth about God was more often gained though life experience than abstract reason. The Jewish people were sure of God’s love for them because of the peace, prosperity and well-being they had encountered over the years. However, there was a moral dimension linked to these blessings. God’s Law revealed the principles which had enabled them to sustain their favorable situation. During the time of Hosea, when the people disobeyed the Law, the prophet warned of dire consequences. Fidelity to the Law and certainty about the truth behind it was required in order for people to know God and receive his blessings. God’s desire for their happiness was indicated by his gift of the Law and the sending of prophets to remind them to be faithful to it. Knowing the truth about God with certainty was connected to life experience.

            John’s account of Christ’s teaching about the Holy Spirit reveals how it will help people to know the truth about God through their life experience. Earlier, Jesus had taught his disciples they should love each other as he had loved them. They had experienced Christ’s love for others through his many teachings and miracles. Yet, they were unaware his forthcoming death on the Cross would be the greatest sign of his love. Their experience of that event would likely confuse them and shatter their faith. While the world would see it as proof Jesus had failed in his mission, the Advocate would enable his disciples to perceive the crucifixion as the way humanity would gain redemption from sin and enter Eternal Life. They could be certain Christ had accomplished his Father’s plan. After the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples at Pentecost, it lived within them. Under its guidance, they would come to know more clearly the truth about God revealed by Jesus. As they interacted with the world and faced new situations, like the growing numbers of Gentiles entering the Church, the Advocate would ensure they responded appropriately.

            Easter is the season Catholics become more aware of how it takes time for things to reach completion. During the late winter, a tree often looks dead with its branches and trunk hardened by the cold. In early spring, it looks a little more alive when buds start to appear on the branches. As the weather gets warmer, the buds sprout into leaves and birds fill the branches. In the same way, our faith grows slowly both individually and collectively. Our understanding of what Christ taught evolves when we read Scripture, study the Catechism, reflect on our life experiences and pray. As the tree can’t change without the help of the sun, so we need the Holy Spirit to guide us.

As the Church has interacted with the world over the past decades, experiences of daily life have indicated Catholics and Protestants worship the same God and share many beliefs and practices. The Advocate has helped the Church recognize being an authentic Catholic need not exclude the possibility of joining with Protestants for important religious celebrations. While there are some limits to participating in such events, like the inability to share the Eucharist, they need not stop an expression of Christian unity. The Church’s teaching evolves so that knowing the truth about God with certainty remains connected to the lived experiences of the faithful.

            One way to acquire a better understanding of how Church’s teachings have evolved over time is through spiritual reading. Some of the greatest thinkers in history are part of our Catholic tradition. Since their writings often deal with deep and complex issues, they are not always easy to read. Many have examined the important questions of life and have discovered some timeless truths about them. Yet, each one experienced life in a particular time and place. They built upon the foundations of the past and added something to the Church’s teaching but none had reached the whole truth. This process has continued until our present time and will do so into the future. Through spiritual reading, we can identify the eternal truths about the human condition and our faith but also how our understanding of them evolves so we can better apply them to daily life.

            The confusion expressed by my parishioner is shared by many others. In the past, when the world changed less, the Church taught in a more definitive way. Black or white statements made many Catholics comfortable. However, the changes happening in our world today are more fundamental and rapid. For this reason, the Church is usually more nuanced in its teaching. By doing so, it strives to teach with certainty the truth about God while recognizing how changes in the world influence human understanding and experiences. The Advocate ensures that as Church teachings evolve, they follow God’s plan.

May 17, 2020

Celebrations

The disciples asked Jesus, “Where do you want us to make the preparations for you to eat the Passover?” (Matt. 26:17).

            When I was younger, I used to look forward to Easter. One of the things I enjoyed most about it was all the preparations we made before the big day arrived. There were decorations to put up, special foods to buy and prepare and putting all the candies in the Easter Basket. It goes without saying, this Easter will be different. I am sure it will also be true for our Jewish friends celebrating Passover. There will likely be fewer decorations, more modest meals and less candy in Easter baskets in most homes. Besides, there seems little enthusiasm to celebrate in the middle of a pandemic which is causing so much suffering and death.

            In this text from Matthew, Christ tells his disciples to go into Jerusalem in order to make preparations for a Passover Meal. By doing so, he sets in motion the events leading up to the Last Supper.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, Passover was the most significant religious celebration of the year for Jews. For a people whose land was occupied by the Romans, the story of God liberating them from slavery in Egypt would have provided them with some hope about their future. The celebration included food and wine as well as the shared company of family and friends. Christ’s disciples would probably have looked forward to Passover that year because it would be celebrated in Jerusalem; the center of Jewish religious life. However, they likely never imagined the importance of the events which were about to occur. First, Jesus would transform the Passover Meal into the Last Supper with the institution of the Eucharist. Next, he would be betrayed by one disciple, denied by another, arrested, condemned to death by Jewish and Roman officials on false charges, beaten, nailed to a cross, ridiculed as he suffered and executed like a common criminal. Finally, after three days, he would rise from the dead and appear to several of his disciples. For Christ’s followers, these events gave the celebrations which happened around the time of Passover a whole new meaning and revealed the essential truths of their new faith.

            During this Covid 19 Pandemic, our “bare bones” Easter celebrations might be a blessing in disguise. This year we might be less distracted by all the “extras” associated with this season which, although nice, are not necessary. A simpler celebration might give us the chance to better appreciate the gift of the Eucharist (Christ’s Body and Blood) which we could receive every day before the pandemic struck and will do so after it ends. It would provide us with the opportunity to meditate more deeply on the events associated with Christ’s suffering and death recalled when we could celebrate the Stations of the Cross. In addition, it would also give us the chance to think more sincerely about the hope and joy which accompanies the promise of Eternal Life which the risen Jesus shared with his disciples, recounted when we could celebrate the Easter Vigil Mass.

            Catholics and other people of faith understand how the busyness of life can distract them from seeing what is really important. Our focus should be on what God has done for us and how we can share with others the good news of the hope and joy which Easter represents. The ability to separate the essential from the trivial (in a world which frequently cannot do so) provides us with the wisdom and strength to respond to the struggles we will face in the coming weeks and months of this pandemic. It also helps us recognize those who are struggling with hopelessness and despair at this time and support them.

            Next year, our Easter celebrations will hopefully feature nicer decorations, better meals and more candy. But, if we utilize this year’s Easter wisely, we can make that celebration more meaningful because we will have a clearer understanding of what we are doing.

April 8, 2020

Real Presence

Jesus said to (the Jews), “Very truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood you have no life in you” (John 6:53).

            A while ago, I was attempting to explain what the Church teaches about the Eucharist to a parishioner. “How can the Church expect us to believe Christ is really present in the Eucharist when the bread and wine look and taste the same before and after consecration”, the man asked. “In addition, the host does not resemble human flesh. Surely, what the Church means is that the consecrated bread and wine are a symbol of the Body and Blood of Christ.” When I said, this was not what the Church taught, he looked puzzled. Clearly, many Catholics find it difficult to accept that Jesus is really present in the Eucharist.

In this text from John, Jesus reveals to some Jews that unless they eat his flesh and drink his blood, they will have no life in them. By doing so, he supplies the foundation for the Catholic doctrine of Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament the manna eaten by the Israelites as they crossed the Sinai Desert was considered both a sign of God’s providence and a spiritual test. A number of Bible scholars think it was probably the droppings of certain trees found in the region which could be utilized as an emergency source of food. Through the manna, the Israelites were fed by God and were able to reach the “Promised Land”. Yet, it was also used as a spiritual test. The manna always formed overnight and provided the Israelites with one day’s supply of food. If kept for the next day, it became wormy and rotten. Every sixth day, an extra supply appeared so manna would not have to be collected on the Sabbath. For the Israelites, manna was not simply food but a sign of God’s continued presence in the material world. It was also a test of how much they trusted that presence would care for them.

            John’s Bread of Life Discourse contended God’s presence in the material world could be encountered through Christ’s body. The Evangelist wrote earlier God entered physical creation at the Incarnation (when the Word became flesh). This material existence would become the means by which the sinfulness of humanity would be redeemed through the death of Jesus on the Cross. Faith in Christ and what he accomplished was crucial for gaining Eternal Life. The idea Christ’s death would surpass the Exodus as a sign of God’s saving power was unthinkable to some Jews. Others were scandalized by the belief salvation could only be attained in this way. This material connection made God and sinners a part of each other lives. Redemption from sin and entry into Eternal Life had a physical and spiritual dimension. The strong language Jesus utilized to express this teaching (eat my flesh and drink my blood) tested the faith of his followers. Yet, it showed belief that God was present in the world through Christ’s body and blood, later incorporated into participation in the Eucharist instituted at the Last Supper, was a core doctrine of Christian faith.

            The Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ is an opportunity to become more aware of the importance of the Church’s doctrine on Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist. Within our modern society, people make judgments based on material perceptions. The bread and wine used at Mass does not change its appearance or taste at Consecration. So how do we know it really is the Body and Blood of Jesus? Because, at the Last Supper, he said “This is my Body” and “This is my Blood”. In the text, he talks about eating his Body and drinking his Blood. He does not say this is a symbol of my Body and Blood. The early Church Fathers confirm this understanding of these texts in their writings. This teaching is a question of faith which extends beyond scientific evidence. The Church’s teaching on Transubstantiation (the external qualities of the bread and wine remain the same while its substance changes) is an attempt to explain how it happens but some Catholics have questions about it. The important issue is that Christ is really present in the Eucharist (body, blood, soul and divinity). The reason acceptance of the doctrine is important is because it strengthens the belief that God’s presence in the material world is experienced in the body of Jesus.

One way to show our belief in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist is to consider how we go to Communion. Catholics must be in a state of grace to receive Communion. Those in a state of moral sin, married outside the Church or living together are in a situation which denies the purpose of the Eucharist (to show our connection with the Body of Christ) and so should not receive the Eucharist. While coming up for Communion Catholics should be meditating on what they are about to receive. They should make some sign of reverence before receiving it and show proper respect when doing so (either or the tongue or in the hand). After receiving Communion, they should pray quietly and thank God for this great gift. Let each time we receive the Eucharist be an opportunity to profess our belief that Jesus is really present in the Eucharist.

            Many Catholics, like my parishioner, have difficulty understanding and accepting Church teaching about Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist. Like so many beliefs within our tradition it appears to contradict human experience. However, because it is true, we get to encounter God’s presence in our world both materially and spiritually which helps reinforce our faith.

 

June 14, 2020

Blindness

Jesus said to (the Pharisees) “If you were blind, you would not have sin. But now you say ‘We see’, your sin remains” (John 9:41).

            When I was a boy, my best friend loved crossword puzzles. Although he became good at solving them, my friend admitted his biggest problem was overconfidence about certain answers. His first response to a clue made sense and had the right number of letters. Yet, as he worked on the adjacent clues, no correct answer seemed possible. It frequently took him a long time before he realized his first answer was wrong. Clearly, some ideas can become so fixed in our minds we are blind to other possibilities.

            In this text from John, Jesus tells some Pharisees their response to a miracle performed on a Sabbath reveals they do not see God working through it. By doing so, he indicates the cause of spiritual blindness is sin.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament the term “blindness” was used to describe a number of temporary or permanent conditions which resulted in the loss of physical sight. It was often caused by cataracts, senility or infections associated with poor hygiene. Since the condition made one dependent upon others it was considered a personal disaster. Although the Jewish Law forbid anyone from putting an obstacle before a blind person, it also prohibited him or her from entering the Jerusalem Temple. Blind priests were unable to exercise their ministry and animals with that condition could not be offered in sacrifice. Blindness was a punishment imposed on the disobedient by God. When Lot was confronted by the men of Sodom, the divine response was to blind them. For Jews, God alone made people blind and restored their sight. Anyone born blind suffered from God’s disfavor.

            John account of Christ’s healing of the blind man showed that spiritual blindness could be as debilitating as its physical counterpart. The disciples’ assumption the man born blind or an ancestor had sinned was a traditional way of looking at the situation. They were unable to see it as an opportunity to reveal God’s mercy. The Pharisees rejected the possibility the healing of the blind man was an act of God because it happened on the Sabbath. In their mind, God never acted beyond their interpretation of the Law. The reaction of the parents of the blind man to the healing was to distance themselves from him because they feared rejection by the community. They were unable to see the depth of God’s concern for their son. All three groups placed their expectations above those of someone in need and God’s desire to respond to it. By being closed from God due to their sin, they had developed spiritual blindness.

            Lent is the season which can help us recognize the causes of our spiritual blindness. Fear is a common feeling among people in our present society. They are anxious about the possibility of a terrorist attack, the collapse of world financial markets or the effects of global warming on the environment. Although such fears are understandable, they could also prevent us from seeing life as a gift from God. Many of us do not have to worry about being killed by a suicide bomber, spending our entire daily wage on the food required to feed our families or live with the chance an earthquake could destroy our homes in a matter of seconds. Our physical and material security and environment are gifts from God. We should be grateful for them and ready to ensure others have access to them. When we make judgments about why others don’t have or deserve them or are afraid to speak up in their defense, we indicate our blindness to the goodness and generosity of God towards us.

            During Lent, Catholics can diminish their spiritual blindness by giving thanks whenever they eat or drink something. We usually offer thanks before we sit down for a meal at home but what about when we eat in a restaurant or stop for coffee at Tim Horton’s. Is our thanks offered so quickly we do not listen to the words spoken? All we have is a gift from God. Developing this habit might lead to giving thanks at other times like arriving safely after a journey or receiving a positive result on a medical test. Our lives are not an obstacle course to navigate or a puzzle to be solved but an opportunity to see how God’s providence touches our lives every day. Yes, we face challenges and endure sufferings as well but through them we discover how much we depend on God’s help to keep going. Our first response to these trials may prevent us from perceiving how they fit into God’s plan. May our attitude of gratitude help us overcome this spiritual blindness.

            As my friend taught me many years ago, first responses can easily become fixed in our mind and remain there for a long time. Yet, sometimes they prevent us from seeing what is really occurring around us. By being open to other possibilities, we are more likely to perceive the full picture.

March 19, 2023

Bread

Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and two fish, he looked up to heaven and blessed and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples and the disciples gave them to the crowd (Matthew 14:19).

            Some time ago, I was on a mission trip to Peru. After spending most of a morning doing physical labour, our hosts invited us for lunch. As they placed the food on the table, I realized I was in trouble. The lunch consisted of: roasted llama, some noodles which were half cooked and local vegetables. I have always had to watch what I eat for health reasons and was afraid I might become sick if the meal did not agree with me. Then, the woman who was serving us brought out several loaves of fresh bread. I was saved. Although I did try some of the other items on the table by filling up on bread, I had the strength to keep working all afternoon.

            In this text from Matthew, Jesus feeds a crowd of five thousand with five loaves of bread and two fish. By doing so, he uses bread as a means to develop the relationship between God and His people.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, bread was considered a basic food but also a way to communicate important ideas. When Abraham offered bread to his heavenly visitors, a relationship was created between them. Laban and Jacob sealed their covenant with each other by eating bread together. After the covenant was sealed between God and Israel, Moses and the elders ate bread with God on Mount Sinai which marked their acceptance into God’s family. The bread placed in front of the Holy of Holies and changed each Sabbath reminded the Israelites of God’s providence and their covenant with him. In the Psalms, the betrayal of a friendship, which was represented by the sharing of bread, was lamented. Clearly, bread was associated with many of the important events which occurred in the history of the Jewish people.

            Matthew’s account of the miracle of the loaves and fishes continues this connection. The reaction of the disciples to the large crowd of hungry people was reasonable: send them away so they can buy food. Yet, Jesus recognized a chance to satisfy their physical and spiritual hunger. As God’s love for the Israelites was demonstrated when they were fed with manna in the desert, so Christ’s actions fulfilled the same needs. By taking the loaves, looking up to heaven, blessing, breaking and distributing them to his disciples, Jesus indicated the miracle was more than just a humanitarian gesture. It developed a relationship between God and the crowd as well as among the members of the group. He used these same actions with bread at the Last Supper to institute the Eucharist, which made him present to his disciples after his Passion. Jesus saw bread as the medium through which a deeper bond between God and his people could be established.

            Christ’s feeding of the crowd with bread and fish foreshadowed how the Eucharist would become a recognized sign of unity within the Church. At the beginning of every Mass a group of individuals assembles to express their faith. Each person brings to the celebration their own joys and struggles. These individuals may belong to different economic classes, ethnic backgrounds or language groups. Although the specific needs of each person may vary a great deal, they are united by a common hunger for God. They also live within the same physical environment given to them by God. The Eucharist communicates God’s love for all of them and how they are called to care for one another. Furthermore, the Eucharist is being celebrated somewhere in the world at almost every moment of the day. It can be offered in any language or culture. Since the time of the Last Supper, it has been celebrated continuously. For these reasons, it is the ultimate sign of the universal nature of the Church and its mission. It unites all Catholics into a community which is fed by Christ.

            Participating in the sign of peace at Mass is one way we can express our understanding of the unity which comes from sharing the Eucharist. Although we gain little physical strength from consuming the host, the spiritual power it brings is great. The Sacramental graces we receive join our efforts with those of Jesus and the rest of the Church and reinforce our resolve to live as his disciples. By exchanging the sign of peace with our neighbors before receiving the Eucharist, we reveal our desire to promote harmony within the faith community which intensifies our personal and communal witness to our beliefs in the world. As we all share a common need for food such as bread, so we have one for God and each other which is satisfied by the Eucharist. Through our participation in the Sign of Peace, we show our understanding of how we are fed by it.

            As a sign of hospitality, the meal I shared with that family in Peru indicated their desire to form a deeper relationship with me. Since it is the closest thing to a universal food, the bread we shared crossed whatever cultural boundaries might have separated us. The Eucharist achieves the same result. Our attitude towards it should reflect its ability to bring us closer to God.

 

August 2, 2020

Bishops

Jesus summoned his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out and to cure every disease and every sickness (Matthew 10:1).

            Some time ago, I was talking to a woman about a recent papal statement. “I like how the Pope teaches in such a clear and forceful manner”, the person said. When I noted the Canadian Bishops had issued a Pastoral Letter on the same issue, she was unimpressed. “What the Bishops say doesn’t really matter”, the woman replied. Clearly, there are Catholics who fail to appreciate the special role Bishops play in the Church.

            In this text from Matthew, Jesus called his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits and to cure every disease. By doing so, he started the process of forming Bishops as leaders in the Church.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament Israel’s leaders were often seen as chosen by God. It was God who prompted Moses to anoint Aaron and his sons with oil and establish the Jewish Priesthood. God also revealed to Samuel that Saul and later David were to become kings of Israel. Prophets such as Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel received their commission directly from God. This divine sanction gave them confidence when they faced doubts and a reply when their credentials were questioned by opponents. Such leaders were perceived as God’s instruments on earth whether they offered sacrifice in the Temple, led Israel into battle against its foes or warned the people about idolatry or unjust social conditions. While some of Israel’s leaders were corrupt, God insured salvation history unfolded through them.

            Matthew’s account of Christ sending out the twelve apostles stressed their leadership role within the community. While Jesus had many disciples, these twelve were specifically identified by name and earlier had heard a number of his teachings and witnessed his miracles. This meant their testimony and ministry came from a personal experience of Christ’s authority. In addition, they were the ones Jesus called to undertake the mission and were given the power to do so. The directions they received told them where they were to go and to whom they would minister (the community of Israel). Through this small group of dedicated leaders, Christ’s mission would be expanded to touch the lives of more people. Later, the authority to bind and loose, first given to Peter, was expanded to include the larger community which implied its leaders, the Twelve. As time passed, the Twelve and their successors the Bishops, became the solid foundation on which the Church was built after Jesus returned to his Father.

            The important role Bishops play within the Church was clarified during Vatican II in the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church and the Decree on the Bishops. These documents taught a Bishop is not simply a branch manager who implements within his Diocese whatever the Pope decides. His authority comes directly from the Apostles although it is exercised in communion with the Pope and other Bishops. His role is to apply Church teaching to the specific situation of his Diocese. He is also to respond to issues particular to his local Church. Through the Synod of Bishops, established after Vatican II, these local leaders are to contribute their observations and ideas about broader issues to enable the better governance of the Church. While a Bishop’s or Conference of Bishops Pastoral Letter does not have the same authority as a Papal Encyclical, it is still part of Church teaching and deserves careful consideration.

            Nevertheless, many Catholics and non-Catholics in our modern world do not appreciate the role of a Bishop as a Church leader. When they want to know the Catholic position on some issue or learn what is happening in the Church, they frequently obtain their information from a statement by the Pope or a High Vatican Official. Bishops are the clergy who do Confirmations and deal with local complaints. While our Church needs the sense of unity and order provided by the Pope, it is also a community made up of many nationalities, languages and cultures. Bishops help make Church teaching connect with the local environment. Every institution must respond to issues on multiple levels in an integrated way. Bishops are an important part of this process. They have access to local situations which can help the universal Church better understand the world to which it ministers and the 2,000-year tradition which gives a better perspective on them.

            Visiting the website of a Diocese, Regional Assembly or National Conference is one way to better appreciate the Bishop’s role within our Church. When an important issue arises which involves the Church, many Catholics obtain their information from secular news media. Some of these stories contain factual errors; fail to explain the reasons behind a Church teaching or have an anti-Catholic or anti-religious bias. Although Catholic media outlets can provide more reliable information, most websites of a Diocese, Regional Assembly or National Conference contain the actual documents issued or statements made rather than summaries or interpretations so people can draw their own conclusions. Either individually or collectively Bishops are responsible for providing Church teachings accurately.

            Sadly, many people, like the woman I described, don’t value the Bishop’s role. Perhaps if they better understood it, this attitude would change.

June 18, 2023

Birthday

Mary gave birth to her first-born son and wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a manger because there was no place for them at the inn (Luke 2:7)

            When I was a boy, my birthday was a big deal. I spent the weeks before it thinking about what my parents might buy me for my birthday present. In case they might not know what to get me, I made helpful suggestions. As I grew up, birthdays became important milestones in my life. At 16, I could get a driver’s license. After I turned 18, I could vote. Later, they were a reminder I was getting old, so I paid less attention to them. Now that both my parents have died, birthdays have become an occasion to reflect upon how the years pass quickly and ordinary events become more meaningful.

            In this text from Luke, Mary gives birth to Jesus and lays him in a manger because there was no place for them in the inn. By doing so, God enters human history in a very ordinary way.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament a child’s birth was believed to be a blessing from God. It fulfilled the divine command to be fruitful and multiply, extended God’s covenant with a specific family for another generation and gave the parents a source of support in their old age. Although stories were recorded about how the birth of important individuals within Israel’s history were foretold to their parents and God appeared to these leaders as children, the accounts contained few details about what occurred after they were born. After birth, the baby was usually washed, rubbed with salt and wrapped in bands of cloth to strengthen the spine. News about the infant’s birth was then sent to the father who frequently named him or her. If the child was a son, he succeeded to his father’s authority in the family and was circumcised after eight days.

            Luke’s story of Christ’s birth highlighted the ordinary way God entered human history. After the evangelist placed the event within its historical context by identifying the Emperor and Governor of Syria, he indicated why Mary and Joseph were in Bethlehem when Jesus was born: registration for a future tax. Far from their relatives and in makeshift accommodations (probably the basement of the inn or a nearby cave where animals were kept) Mary gave birth to her child. The event was told simply. In the account, the only supernatural element was the appearance of angels to the shepherds who were the first learn about the birth. However, this ordinary event had an extraordinary meaning. Earlier, the angel told Mary her son would be great and called Son of the Most High. In the field, the angels revealed he would be a Saviour, Messiah and Lord. This birth was a turning point in human history and all generations would reflect upon its meaning.

            Christmas provides the faithful with a chance to contemplate how this event has impacted their life. During his time on earth, Jesus would have experienced many of the difficulties which are part of the human condition: hunger, thirst, exhaustion and pain. Christians can draw strength from the fact he knew personally many of the hardships they endure. While he never committed sin, Christ would have experienced many of its effects: oppression, injustice, betrayal and death. The faithful recognize he can empathize with their plight. They also understand that his birth was followed by his earthly mission, during which he made God’s presence real to people through his teachings and miracles, his Death, which redeemed humanity from its sins and his Resurrection which opened the way to Eternal Life. The birth of Jesus has impacted the lives of Christians in many ways.

            Yet, this season is also a time to consider how Christ embraced the ordinary limitations of the human condition. Until the moment he was conceived in Mary’s womb, the Son of God had infinite power and glory. At his birth, he became a helpless infant completely dependent on his parents. He was born when the Roman Empire was at the height of its power and his birthplace in Bethlehem made him one of its subjects. Jesus could have been born at another time or in a different place but did not. Why? Perhaps he wanted to show from the outset of his life that he welcomed the fullness of ordinary human life. He experienced the power of human love through his parents. Jesus would have slept, eaten food, drank water and earned money as a carpenter. By doing so, he indicated the ordinary events in life, which are often dismissed or taken for granted, have a deeper spiritual meaning: they connect us with him.

Birthdays, including that of Jesus, can be a time of reflection. They link us with the past and are a reminder that our future is fast approaching. However, they can also help us appreciate the present and that, as Christ showed through his birth, the ordinary events which comprise life have more value than we realize.

December 25, 2019

Bethlehem

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us” (Luke 2:15).

            When I was in High School, a teacher once told me learning something important usually required changing your attitude. “Convince yourself quadratic equations are too complicated and you will never understand them”, he said. “However, the moment you think they can be figured out everything snaps into place”. While modifying our attitude is a complex process, a personal experience can help make it happen.

            In this text from Luke, some shepherds go to Bethlehem to discover more about what the angels revealed to them in the field. By doing so, they make it the place from which news about Christ’s birth starts to be shared with all people.

            Within the Hebrew Scriptures/Old Testament, Bethlehem was associated with the lives of many important people in Israel’s history. Rachel, the wife of Jacob, died near the town and was buried there. Elimelech, the father-in-law of Ruth, was a citizen of Bethlehem. David was born in the town and was anointed by Samuel at a sacrifice offered there. After Solomon’s death and the division of the Kingdom, Rehoboam made Bethlehem a fortified city within Judah. Prior to the birth of Jesus, the town’s importance derived from its connection with King David. Isaiah’s prophecy about the coming of a future Messiah indicated this individual would be a descendent of David. Micah specified Bethlehem would be the birthplace of this person. Yet, the shepherds likely knew little about the town’s religious importance. Bethlehem was a place they passed by as they moved their flocks between pastures.

            Luke’s story of the shepherds’ encounter with the angels changed their attitude towards the town. They were told a saviour, who is the Messiah, was born there. Their decision to learn more about this event by going there was sparked by their personal experience of what the angels revealed. Upon finding the child in the conditions described by the angels, the shepherds shared with Mary and Joseph the message they had received. The long-awaited Messiah had arrived in Bethlehem as Micah had predicted. This profound news had to be told to others. The shepherds probably shared their story with anyone who would listen. Its impact on them was indicated by their amazement. While only part of God’s plan about Jesus was revealed to them, the shepherds became the first heralds of the Christmas message: the significant lesson they learned that night through personal experience.

            Although the shepherds and those with whom they interacted knew of the birth of Jesus, most of the people in Bethlehem were likely unaware or indifferent to the news. Some of those who learned about the event likely forgot about it after a few days. They were busy doing other things in their lives. In a way, this Christmas Season, our secular society is a lot like Bethlehem. There is so much to do: decorations to put up; presents to buy; and dinners to plan. Yet, all these activities focus on the social dimension of the holiday. This leaves little time to recall the reason why Christmas is celebrated at all. Once it is over, everyone starts focusing on Valentine’s Day.

            Christians can be distracted by all this activity. It is often difficult to keep one’s attention on the holiday’s spiritual dimension. The shepherd’s message has been passed down to us in the Scriptures. Through his birth at Bethlehem, our Saviour became one of us. This event will lead to our redemption from sin and allow us to enter Eternal Life. Personal encounters with Christ have enabled the faithful to understand the significance of this message. Such experiences direct their attention away from the distractions found in our society and towards recalling the true meaning of Christmas.

            Like the shepherds, Christians need to share with others the spiritual meaning of Christ’s birth. Many are reluctant to do so for fear of offending non-Christians or those with no faith. For others, it is so personal they have difficulty sharing it with another individual. Yet, the future of all humanity was changed by it, whether people choose to accept this truth or not. Although we respect the right of people to ignore the spiritual meaning of Christmas, this does not imply we should not promote it by our actions and words. Like the shepherds in Luke’s account, we have personally experienced Christ’s presence in our lives and so understand the meaning of his birth. We are called to share it with all those who will listen.

            During this Christmas Season, we not only remember what happened in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago, we live it. Many people may not understand or believe in the importance of the birth of Jesus; but we do. For this reason, we need to keep the spiritual dimension of this holiday alive and well in our world.

December 25, 2021

Baptism

In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan (Mark 1:9).

             When I was six days old, I was baptized at Holy Cross Parish in Oshawa, Ontario. It was at that moment I assumed my identity as a Roman Catholic. Since that time, I have tried to live out and better understand what that identity means. When I was young, my parents took me to Mass every Sunday. We ate fish instead of meat for supper on Fridays. I went to Holy Cross and John F. Kennedy Elementary Schools instead of the public school near our house. At university, I lived at the Newman Center at the edge of the campus of Queen’s University for two years. As time passed, I became more conscious of how my baptismal identity has made me similar to but also different from other people.

            In the text from Mark, Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. By doing so, he begins the process of establishing his identity as the one called to redeem sinful humanity.

            Since an account of this event is recorded in three of the Gospels, it is very likely to have happened. Yet, it raises an awkward question. If John’s Baptism indicated conversion from sin, why did Jesus, who as Son of God was sinless, receive it? In response to this dilemma, Matthew included the story of John trying to dissuade Jesus from being baptized for this reason. Perhaps Mark was attempting to convey the message Baptism was about more than being cleansed from sin. It included taking on a new identity. Jesus was about to start his earthly ministry. Its ultimate goal was the redemption of sinners. He would experience all the burdens of the human condition, including the effects of sin, without being touched by it. During his ministry, he would encounter oppression, corruption, illness, betrayal, suffering and death. The identity Jesus embraced at his Baptism indicated how he shared with all people experiences of the harm caused by sin but his immunity from it gave him the power to redeem them from it.

            As each of us continues on our faith journey, we pick up new dimensions of our identity. Yesterday, after getting my test results back, I found out my identity includes being a Covid 19 patient. While I have tested positive, I seem to be asymptomatic: I do not feel sick in any way. In fact, I feel exactly the same way I have felt for the past few months. I have been in self-isolation since January 1 when a woman to whom I gave Communion at Christmas told me she had tested positive for the virus. I am now staring at remaining in self-isolation for another ten days. When people ask how I feel I tell them I am bored out of my tree.

            This development makes me similar to some individuals (Covid 19 patients) and different from others (the rest of you). Yet, my particular situation makes me different from many Covid 19 patients. The virus has killed over 15,000 Canadians and caused immense suffering to a lot more. It feels a little awkward being placed in the same category as these people. I can’t imagine what it must be like to be a family member, friend or caregiver of one of them.

            What this development has indicated to me is how we are all in this pandemic together. We are more similar to each other than we realize. None of us lives in a bubble safely protected from what is going on around us. We are all fragile and vulnerable. Our lives could be changed fundamentally in a matter of hours. Death may not be an event which will occur in the far future. These realities make a lot of people uncomfortable. They have altered how individuals perceive me, talk about me and treat me since learning about my test result.

            Yet, how I respond to this situation will probably make me different from others. I must realize there are more important things to think about then my situation and rights. I have a duty to protect the people in my Rectory, Office and Parish. My Baptismal identity is a reminder that like Jesus I will experience the effects of sin: the symptoms I develop; the uncertainty about not knowing what will happen next; the confinement of remaining in my rooms; the inability to get things done; and the lack of knowledge about when life returns to normal. Each of these things I offer to God and trust that somehow, they are part of his plan.

            I draw some comfort from the fact that at his Baptism, Jesus expressed his solidarity with the human condition and me. He embraced the effects of sin and then destroyed its power when he died on the cross and redeemed me from it. Perhaps, one of the unexpected consequences of my getting Covid 19 is a better grasp of my Baptismal identity and that of Jesus.

January 10, 2021

Baptism of the Lord

Now when all the people were baptized and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened (Luke 3:22).

            A while ago, I read a story about some parents who were explaining to their son why he was baptized. They stated how Baptism washed away Original Sin, made him a member of the Church and allowed him to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit. After they finished, he inquired “Was Jesus baptised?” When they answered yes, he asked “Why?” At that moment the parents decided it was time to invite their Parish Priest over for supper.

            In this text from Luke, Jesus is among a large group of people who are baptized by John. By recording the event, Luke indicates the action occurred without explaining its meaning.

            Christ’s Baptism was among the most certain events which occurred during his time on earth. Each of the Gospels either recorded or implied the action. Although Matthew noted John’s hesitation about the event, Jesus stated it fulfilled all righteousness and so the Baptist complied. None of the Evangelists supplied any justification for the action. Yet, they each described some of what happened to Jesus after the event: the heavens opened; the Holy Spirit descended and a voice from heaven called him “my Son”. Perhaps the clear establishment of Christ’s identity as the “Son of God” was the reason for his Baptism. Since Jesus was divine and knew it, the event likely happened for the benefit of later disciples who learned about him through the Scriptures. His first disciples, who had no contact with Christ, learned about this part of his identity from his teachings and miracles. For those with no earthly experience of Jesus, this event made clear his divinity at the very start of the story about him. This certainty provided his followers with a firm understanding of their own identity. Their faith came from a divine rather than human source.

            The Baptism of Jesus helps us understand our own baptismal identity in two ways. First, when we are baptized, we are joined to his Death and Resurrection. Christ’s Death demonstrated that human life was intended for more than earthly existence. He sacrificed it for a greater good: the salvation of sinners. His Resurrection revealed that death was not the end of human existence but led to Eternal Life. Every baptized person becomes “another Christ” who makes their union with him present to the world by how they live out their life. They strive to promote the greater goods of truth and justice and prepare for the life to come. Second, at our Baptism, we are linked to the mystery of the relationship between Christ and his Father. The announcement by the voice from heaven “this is my Son” reveals the close bond between the two. Although Jesus submitted to his Father’s will, there were times when this seemed difficult for him, such as in the Garden of Gethsemane. It is natural for humans to inquire why it was the Father’s will that Jesus had to die. They find it hard to accept certain things which cannot be understood. Through Baptism we enter into a deeper relationship with Jesus and his Father. As we cannot fully understand the dynamics of the bond between them, we cannot completely grasp the forces acting on our relationship with either one. The Sacrament gives us the graces to at least cope with this situation. It is a reminder we are those who can live with the unknown.

            Like the parents in the opening story, we express our faith in the form of propositions. By doing so, it becomes easier to understand and communicate to others. However, propositions do not express the fullness of our beliefs. Baptism does wash away Original Sin, makes us members of the Body of Christ (the Church) and lets us receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Yet, it requires us to abandon our earthly way of understanding life and death as well as accept the mysteries of faith we do not comprehend including the bond between Christ and his Father. Baptism allows us to become comfortable with things propositions cannot express. It gives us an identity which is distinct from the rest of the world because we see it differently.

January 9, 2022