Dear Friends in Christ,
Vocations: When we think of vocations, many of us first think of priesthood. This is certainly understandable given that we have a shortage. If we are thinking solely of the ordained priesthood, however, our thinking is too narrow. There are times when observing a young person engaged in ministry, I wonder if there is a future priest. I shouldn’t wonder. I am observing someone called to priesthood. All of us are called to priesthood and when we think of vocations our first thought should be of priesthood, although not necessarily to ordination. Observe our altar servers. Imagine their future service in the Church. Observe the young who serve in the choir or as Eucharistic ministers or lectors. Imagine their future service in the Church. Look beyond the young. Observe all those who serve. Look also to those who serve in non-liturgical ministries. See the many faces of priesthood.
Reflection:Saul’s attempts to kill David have made him an enemy. An officer tells David, “today the Lord has delivered your enemy into your hand”. His words are true. David would have been fully justified in taking the life which God has indeed placed in his hands. David chooses to do the unexpected. Rather than exact just punishment, he forgives. He chooses an act of honor and love, even at the continued risk of his own life. God fills our lives with such opportunities. We can choose to condemn those who have hurt us, those who have failed to love us. We can judge, and rightfully claim some measure of justice. Christ calls us beyond justice, to allow our actions to be guided by a spirit of love and forgiveness. We live within the embrace of each other’s arms. We choose between crushing the breath of our enemies and healing their pain with the gentleness of a touch.
1. Remember your reaction to a time when you have been mistreated. What changes would you make?
2. Consider the judgments we place upon others. Are they just? Are they loving?
Prayer:Father, give us your wisdom that the judgments we make may be true and just. Give us also your love and compassion, that the forgiveness and love we offer may come from the heart.
Father Jim