Merton’s words remind me of the chief
priests and elders in the Gospel today. They always had a lot to say to and
about Jesus. They constantly questioned him, trying to catch him in a “slip of
the tongue.” Yet, in today’s Gospel they were left speechless.
I have always thought these religious
leaders were not bad people. They were just fearful people. They were people
afraid to stop long enough to listen, to hear and to recognize God’s gift in
their midst because it might mean they would have to change.
Perhaps our reflection today might be to
ask ourselves if we are willing to stop and listen. Each day we encounter God
in many ways. Are we like the chief priests and elders afraid to listen to, and
acknowledge God’s presence? Are we afraid that if we do we might have to
change?
Advent can be a busy time, lots of
things to do before Christmas. Do we dare stop the rush and take some time to
listen, to hear, to recognize God’s presence? Let’s hope so because if we do
this just might be one of the greatest moments in our life!
Have a great day everyone!
Daily Prayer: Loving God,
teach us to take the time listen today. Help us to recognize your presence in
our life. Guide us in your way of truth and love always. Amen!
Runner’s Thoughts: “If we push on,
we begin to feel a vague, tingling sense of who, or what, we really are. It's a
powerful feeling, strong enough to have us coming back for more, again and
again.” (Adharanand Finn) Doesn’t this quote speak about life and faith also?
Doesn't speak to God’s presence in our life?
Daily Blessing: I hope this
finds you all well and energized for a new day. If not hang in there and I will
pray that things get better as the day goes on. I began an Advent Mission
yesterday at Nativity of Our Blessed Lady Parish in the Bronx. It is a small
parish but one of spirit. I ask that you pray for the faith community at
Nativity over these next three days that their wonderful spirit might be
renewed and strengthen. I would also ask you to remember their preacher that he
will be able to proclaim to them the Good News! By the way if you are in the
area of the northeast Bronx come and join us tonight at 7:00 pm.
At mass this morning I was struck by the
closing prayer and so I will adapt it as our blessing today – Loving God,
through the gift of your presence during this new day in our lives help us as
we walk amid passing things to always love the things of heaven and hold fast
to what endures. Bless us all with your gift of hope that we may bring your
presence to whomever we meet and to every place we go! Amen! Blessings to all
today, travel safely and enjoy the gift of this day. Peace in Christ’s Passion…Fr.
Paul
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