Saturday, September 25, 2010

"What's Worth Treasuring?": Reflection for September 26, 2010; 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Today's Scripture can be read at www.usccb.org/nab

It seems that since earliest times people have had a sense of what comprises "the good life" as promoted by trends of their day. (See today's readings from Amos and Luke to see examples.) Yet in the end, many of these values are mere momentary pleasures.
As God's Word reminds us again today, life as we know it will end someday. Now is the time to look at the ways that we spend our time, talent, and treasure; now is the time to see how meanigful our priorites are.
"Godliness, faith, love, patience and gentleness" as suggested in the Letter to Timothy are good beginnings as we evaluate the direction of our lives.

To think about: Consider where and how you spend your time, talent and energy. Do you find this meaningful for you? Can you do one thing to change your focus?

To do: Find one way to put "faith, love, patience or gentleness" into practice each day.

To pray: "Make us your own.. now is the time"

Saturday, September 18, 2010

"Treasures All Around": Reflection for Sept 19, 2010; 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Today's Scripture can be read at www.usccb.org/nab



It sometimes seems that we human beings need "wake up calls" in order to prioritize and value what is really most important in life. Yes, life is fragile and fleeting. An old proverb states' "You can't take it with you."

God's Word today reminds us of this same lesson. The ways that we invest and use our time, talent, love and energy shows where our values are.

Think and Do: Be more aware of how you live; try to live with awareness of what you are doing.
Try making one small change that can help you live in the present moment more meaningfully.
Notice the gifts of life that really matter to you and to others.

Pray: "Open my eyes, Lord, help me to see".

Friday, September 10, 2010

"Seeds of Forgiveness": Reflection for September 12, 2010, 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Today's Scripture can be read at www.usccb.org/nab

Forgiveness is essential for a meaningful life. Medical studies have even shown that lack of forgiveness can make a difference in one's health.
"Refusing to forgive is like swallowing poison and hoping that the other person dies" aptly describes one effect of a lack of forgiveness; it poisons us.
God's Word today shows us reminders of forgiveness: God forgives the Chosen People; Paul experiences forgiveness; the Father welcomes home his prodigal son.
As we commemorate the 9th Anniversary of the tragedy of September 11 this weekend and remember those who died on that day, God's Word calls us to appreciate life with all its fragility and to find ways to incorporate forgiveness into our everyday lives.

We can remember when we find forgiveness difficult, that Jesus prayed "Father, (You) forgive them.." on the cross. We can do the same, asking God to forgive when we are unable to do so.

Saturday, September 4, 2010

"Really Wise": Reflection for Sept. 5, 2010, 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Today's Scripture can be read at www.usccb.org/nab

Decisons, decisions, decisions.. life is full of them. Some are almost spontaneous; some require thought, consideration, and true wisdom.

God's Word today reminds us that we need to be aware of our decisions and seek God's help in making decisions. Rather than relying on ourselves or on others who may know no more than we do, we need to turn to God and to people we trust as we make some decisions.

Of course, we can also learn from our mistakes. So, as God's Word reminds us, we can continue to learn.

As another school year begins, we can also pray for young people to grow in true wisdom.