Our modern culture frowns upon weakness and vulnerability. The world tells us that to get ahead we must be strong, competent, and self-sufficient. This view is in stark contrast to our readings today, which calls us to embrace our weakness, recognize our inherent poverty, and allow God to transform us.
St. Augustine said: “It was pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men [and women] as angels.” Thus, my questions to all of you are: “Who do you want to be: a Pharisee or a tax collector? Devils or angels?” The answers are in your hearts!
Persistence in prayer is a theme Jesus returns to again and again. In today’s Gospel reading we hear about a widow keeps coming back to the judge to demand justice. Finally, because of her persistence, the judge gives in to her demand. More than a lesson about nagging, this is a lesson the echoes the words of Jesus from other passages: if an indifferent judge can be persuaded to response through persistent appeals, how much more so will our loving Father respond to his children?
As we celebrate WORLD MISSION SUNDAY, please be generous in your prayers and material support for the missionary works of the Universal Church. Jesus Christ is counting on you!
“Have an attitude of gratitude” is one of those catchphrases fit for bumper stickers and children’s books. Yet, for Christians, this is more than a catchphrase. It is a basic command of Christian life. Notice in today’s Gospel reading the ten lepers who were healed by Jesus. All ten turned to Jesus in faith with their request. However, after they are healed, only one of the ten returns to thank him for answering their prayer. What lesson should we take from the story?
let’s show to God that we’re a generation of gratitude. Let’s remember what gratitude can do to us: it “unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend.” (Melody Beattie)
The underlying theme to all three readings this week is faith. The prophet Habakkuk cries out to God with a question common to every human heart: Why does God allow evil to persist in the world? As you read these three passages, consider how God doesn’t answer the question – and how he does. Ultimately, it’s a question of faith.
Last weekend were days of joy and fun! The drizzle was a blessing! And the concluded 2019 Harvest Festival was a panorama of ONE community: leaders and staff moved as one; volunteers were amazing; and visitors were wonderful. In one shot, it’s more fun at St. Paul the Apostle Parish! For all that has been, THANKS! For all that will be, YES! See you all at the 2020 Harvest Festival!