Sunday, July 29, 2012

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

It's all about trust. That is the true lesson of these miracles. Do you trust in God or something else? There are moments in life when answering that question is the only challenge that matters. Yes, it is easier to put our faith in the tangible. But where has that gotten us? Look at the problems of modern society. What sort of faith gave them birth? And what would it mean to truly trust Love instead? For to do that is "to live in a manner worthy" of our lineage as true children of the One Parent.

Sunday, July 22, 2012

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Who is your shepherd? There are so many to choose from today, especially here on the internet. With this vast jumble of voices, it is easy to see how the flock has become scattered. It is time to tune them out, all of them, so that you can listen to the One that really matters; the One so deep within life that it sounds like a mere whisper; the One so powerful that when you do hear it, it feels like the sun itself is exploding inside of you. "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want."

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

"I was no prophet." I was just a stupid teenager, who heard God say, "Go, prophesy to my people." How I have struggled to follow that one simple command. Some days I wish he gave me the powers of the Twelve. Driving out demons and curing the sick would certainly get people's attention. But that is not what she wants from me. Nor is it the kind of attention they want from you. They desire more, something deeper and grander. You will not find it from those who earn their "bread" by spouting fiery words. It will appear when you least expect it, under the most ordinary of appearances, and entirely free for the taking. Will you welcome this gift into your home and your heart?

Sunday, July 8, 2012

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

"You shall say to them: Thus says the Lord GOD! And whether they heed or resist - for they are a rebellious house - they shall know that a prophet has been among them." I feel the prophet's burden, for it is my own. I am often discouraged lately. God has shown me the most wondrous gift, and yet it seems like nobody cares. The voices of corporate religion are too many and too loud. The world just keeps on spinning, oblivious to anything I might have to say. Why should they care? I am but one insignificant person. What could I possibly add that thousands of others have not already said? But then I remember that I do not speak on my own behalf. I speak because I have been spoken to. And my insignificance is my reward, "for when I am weak, then I am strong."

Sunday, July 1, 2012

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

"He gave strict orders that no one should know this." Televangelists everywhere must be shaking their heads at the thought of Jesus trying to prevent this miracle from becoming public knowledge. What kind of preacher turns down free publicity? One who serves our Parent, rather than their own business interests. Jesus is not stupid. He knows he cannot resurrect every dead child, and yet he also cannot refuse anyone who approaches him with true faith. His only choice is to attempt to hide his success. This will never work, of course, but it does teach us about Jesus' character. What kind of God heals without demanding homage? Would you follow such a God?