Daily Thoughts: While the
section of the Book of Leviticus which is our first reading today seems to be a
list of what to do and not do I think more importantly it is a reminder of how
to be a Christian, a Catholic. These commands that Moses offers the people
today are all about being a compassionate and loving person. Yes, they say what
to do and not do, mostly what not to do, but if we think about not doing things
like stealing, lying, swearing falsely, using profanity, making fun of people
with disabilities, not acting dishonestly, not gossiping, not living with hate
we can begin to see a life enriched by the presence of God. We can begin to see
a life were we love our neighbor rather than hate our neighbor.
The advancement in technology and social
media is a wonderful thing. It gives us information in an instant. It makes it
possible to communicate across vast miles in a second. It brings people and
experiences into our homes at the instants they happen. But it also enables us
to be very non-Christian without even thinking about it. We can slander,
berate, gossip, hurt and even hate others without even leaving our homes. It is
like playing a video game and yet our words, our thoughts put down on Facebook,
Twitter and all the other forms of social media can sometimes be profoundly
hurtful and un-Christian.
The first reading reminds us today that
whether we are standing in front of a person or thousands of miles away we
still have a responsibility to be a person of faith, a person of God and that
means being loving not hateful and destructive.
Jesus continues this theme in the Gospel
with the very famous phrase, "whatever you did to one of the least
brothers [or sisters] of mine, you did to me." Our words and actions
whether in the midst of people or over the internet have consequences. If we
are kind, loving and compassionate to whomever we encounter, wherever we
encounter them we will be welcome in the Kingdom!
Have a blessed Monday everyone!
Daily Prayer: Help us O God,
to be the people you have created us to be today. Help us to think before we
speak especially when our words are directed towards others. Help us to think
before we write especially when we are writing about others. Help us to act,
respond and live as people committed to compassion, life and love. Make us
aware of your presence in everyone we meet, make us aware of your presence in
ourselves. Fill us with words and actions today that bring about your Spirit of
life! Amen!
A Runner's Thoughts: Remember God
does not wait at home or at the finish line, God is constantly with us in all
things and all people. As we run, as we live, our task is simply to recognize
that fact and hold it with us and run with God!
Daily Blessing: Monday
greetings and blessings to everyone! I hope it is a happy Monday for all, if
not hang in there Tuesday will be here tomorrow!
As I mentioned yesterday evening we have
gotten off to a wonderful mission week here at Our Lady of Loreto Parish in
Waterbury, CT. There is a good spirit here and even though the masses were
lightly attended because of the snow storm the reception that I received at the
masses was great! At the end of the 11:00 am mass we walked outside and the sun
was out and you could feel the warmth. Everyone has a smile on their face! We
begin the mission in a formal way this morning with the celebration of mass at 8:00
am followed by the first mission talk. If you get a chance today please offer a
prayer for the faith community here at Our Lady of Loreto and for their
preacher!
I pray this morning for all of you out
there beginning a new work week, a new school week, a new Monday! May God’s
blessing be with you in whatever you encounter today, in whomever you encounter
today and wherever your day takes you. May God bless you with the grace of joy
to live this day willing to meet God wherever you go and in whomever you meet
including yourself! Peace in Christ’s Passion…Fr. Paul
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