Beginning and End

This last day of 2019 could be the occasion of looking backwards as well as forwards.  Our Gospel for today is the Prologue of John's Gospel ( Jn 1:1-18)... a profound, philosophical, theological and spiritual meditation on the Mystery of the Incarnation, looking at the LOGOS being expressed in the flesh and "pitching his tent" among us..."And the Word (Logos) became flesh/ and made his dwelling (pitched his tent) among us. (Jn 1: 14).  He who is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, is one of us, knows us and loves us to our core.  Yes, on this day we review 2019 and try to generate hope and confidence for 2020.  We end one year to start another.  Jesus did the same and reminds us by his Presence among us, that he is always at our side and is the foundation for our hope in a better future, not only in our personal life, but in the lives of ALL.  May we find strength, comfort and courage in having HIM as our Beginning and our End.
A happy and blessed New Year to All.
Bro Rene

The Sixth Day

This is the sixth day in the Octave of Christmas.  Six days ago, we celebrated the birth of Jesus, an event so great that the Church recognizes it for a week as ONE DAY, the Octave of Christmas. We have seen that suffering and death are part of the message of Christmas in the martyrdom of St. Stephen and of the Holy Innocents. We took a good look at the Holy family yesterday, and today we hear of the "ancient' widow, Anna, and the return of the family to Nazareth.  Anna spent her days and nights in prayer ad fasting, using the time and the gift of life as a widow to concentrate on drawing closer to God.  She was rewarded by actually seeing the child whom she knew was the One to bring redemption to Israel...and all of us.  How do we fill our days?  With prayer and fasting?  What would we be like if we did...even just a bit?  Would we have a clearer picture of Jesus in our lives, in the hearts of others and amidst our daily busyness?
Then the Family settled eventually in Nazareth, (in Matthew, we read of the sojourn in Egypt first) where Jesus grew and became strong, filled with wisdom and touched by the favor of God. A model family,  As an old country saying puts it:  "If there are more mothers like Mary and more fathers like Joseph, there will be more children like Jesus."  Amen!!! (Magnificat, December 2019, p. 446)
Bro Rene

Faith, Love and Obedience

The Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph stirs up several themes stemming from the refugee crisis of 65 million displaced persons so prominent in headlines and in our thoughts, as well as the disarray in millions of families as this fundamental foundation stone of society struggles to remain intact.  Right from the beginning, the Holy Family was displaced by a fearful, jealous, immoral king, and forced to flee to a foreign land for safety.  Who would have expected such a demand on the family of the Son of God?  Yet, in becoming human, God experienced all aspects of the human condition, even to "exile", temporary though it was. Even in such a dramatic situation, God's care was evident:  an angel warned Joseph in a dream, and Joseph and Mary immediately responded, obediently in faith, trust, as love binding them closer to their heavenly Father and to each other.  Again we see growth coming from crisis. What an example for us, as we use our imaginations to fill in the details. Rooted in the faith that God guides every step of the way, the Holy Family eventually returned to Nazareth for a respite before the next dramatic chapter when Jesus began his pubic ministry and fulfilled the purpose of his coming among us. May our faith, love and obedience grow to the point of bringing us through all the unexpected events of life to our final Amen, Alleluia.
Bro Rene

The Slaughter of the Holy Innocents

More martyrs.  Following the trend set on December 26th, the martyrdom of St. Stephen, two days later we celebrate the atrocious slaughter of boys two years old and younger from the Bethlehem region by the angry and fearful King Herod.  He was afraid of losing his throne, his power, to this "newborn king" announced to him by the Magi.  When they did not report back to him as to the whereabouts of this child as he had requested, his wrath let loose, and he who had ordered the murder of two of his own sons, had no qualms about slaughtering these innocent children, who never knew Jesus nor saw him in action, but nevertheless died in his place.  Yes, "Rachel weeping for her children, and she would not be comforted, because they were no more." (Mt 2:18).
We weep over the untimely death of any child, and in today's world, those numbers are staggering.  In 2018, 6.2 million children age 15 and younger, died, and 5.3 million were under the age of 5. Many are not victims in place of Christ, but simply victims of the same fear and lust for power that motivated Herod. The sickness of our world, believe it or not, has been healed by the death and resurrection of Jesus. If each one of us put our faith into practice from the depths of our hearts to the minutest of our actions, the power of the resurrection would surely over-power the forces of evil that seem to have control, but don't.
Bro. Rene 

Love and Respect

Today we honor St John the Evangelist, the "Beloved Disciple" by recounting the scene at the empty tomb when he outran Peter to arrive first, but then waited for him to catch up with him and be the first to enter. (Jn 20: 1a, 2-8).  Being young and having more leg and wind power than Peter, it's no surprise that he outraced him, but also, we can get a sense of his great love for Jesus spurring him on to run as fast as he could, after all, he was the man who would lay his head on the breast of Jesus, so great was their mutual love. And that love was what motivated him to run so fast, take Mary into his home, and spend the rest of his long life spreading the message of love in his Gospel, three letters and the Book of Revelation.
And we see another aspect of John's love:  respect...Peter was older, and the designated leader of the Twelve...He should go first.  John defers to him out of respect...a virtue that seems to be losing ground in our current society of insult and violence May we foster both love of God and neighbor and their corollary, respect, in our families  with our friends and colleagues, and with those who may not get along with us.
Bro. Rene

A Stark Reality

From the peace and glad tidings of Christmas to the brutal stoning of Deacon Stephen, the first Christian martyr!  What a stark contrast in just one day,  but also a reminder of the stark reality that the Babe in the manger would soon be nailed to a tree and that all his followers are to expect similar treatment:  "You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved." (Mt 10: 22).  Our salvation, though "purchased by Jesus, " is not automatic.  There is a necessary commitment and a transformation of heart that must take place in us as well.  St. Stephen, totally following in the footsteps of Jesus, shows us the way we are to walk, whether it be "death to self" or even physical death. By his life and words he loudly proclaimed the Son of God, made no bones about it, and suffered the crushing of his bones to stand by him. (cf. Acts 6;8-10; 7:54-59). 
With the glitter of Christmas lights and decorations, bundles of discarded wrapping paper perhaps still around the house along with trays of cookies and plates of delicious left-overs, let us not forget that pain and suffering are also an essential part of the Christmas package.
Bro. Rene

Bethlehem, The House of Bread

After three and a half weeks of Advent preparation, we arrive at this day when 2000+ years ago, the tiny town of Bethlehem, "the house of bread" welcomed the child who would indeed become the Bread of Life, our Savior and the nourishment of our souls. His first bed was the manger, the feeding trough of the animals that found shelter in the cave where this child was born.  He remains on our altars to feed us weekly, even daily, if we so choose. Today is dedicated to celebrating that wondrous event when the Son of God became bone of our bone, flesh of our flesh, a mystery so far-reaching that we cannot fully comprehend it.  "Yet, the Word did become flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory a of the Father's only Son, full of grace and truth." (cf  Jn 1: 14). Let us take some time amidst the family activities and merriment of this day, to pause by the manger, to worship, and thank Jesus for this great act of love.
Bro. Rene

The Canticle of Zechariah

In one of the most beautiful canticles in the New Testament, one which finds a place daily in the Official Prayer of the Church, Lauds, Zechariah, father of John the Baptist, loosed from his nine month muteness, sings the praises of God, his merciful and loving care and a a mighty savior who sets people free sin.  He sings of his son, John, who will prepare the way for the Savior. (cf. Lk 1:67-79). Take time to pray this poetic canticle slowly with  Zechariah, even commit it to memory so that it becomes part of your every day prayer and thinking.  This is the story of our salvation  in 12 verses, a fitting gift on which to ruminate the day before Christmas.
Bro. Rene

The Birth of the Baptist

Appropriately,  we read today the birth of John the Baptist, the Precursor of Jesus, the one who came before Jesus to prepare the way for him, to lower the mountains, fill in the valleys and prepare a highway for our God-man. Even John's birth has some parallels to that of Jesus that help "prepare the way: The angel Gabriel, the same one who appeared to Mary, appeared to John's father, Zechariah to announce his birth to a couple long past childbearing age. Gabriel gave Zechariah the name for the child, John, as he gave the name Jesus to Mary. Both boys led "hidden lives" until their appearance on the public stage: one announcing the Lamb of God, the other Being the Lamb of God...
We might take this day to reflect on the many details of both births and missions and see again the cleverness of God's plan, and find assurance for his taking care of the plans we have.
Bro. Rene

Nothing to Fear

We take another look at how the birth of Jesus came about, this time from Matthew 1: 18-24. Mary, the betrothed of Joseph we found to be with child. The betrothal year meant no sexual relations between the engaged couple, and certainly not with anyone else.  Joseph was deeply disappointed, hurt and confused. After wrestling with the question, he had just about decided to end the relationship quietly, "divorce Mary quietly," (Mt 1: 19), his best option until an angel came to him in a dream and explained how the child was of the Holy Spirit and would save people from their sins. He told Joseph to take her as his wife, and so he did.
We don't have angels coming to us in our sleep with the answers for which we search, but we do have assurances all through Scripture that God watches over us, and leads us every step of the way. Reflect on Psalm 139 today...see why there is nothing to fear.  God knows when we sit and when we stand, is aware of our  inmost thoughts, hopes and dreams.  Nothing escapes him, and we cannot escape from his loving care.
May we proceed with confidence into the unknowns of this day and the days ahead, with confidence that God is watching and providing all we need.
Bro Rene

Bringing Christ To Others

As we draw closer to Christmas Day, we again focus on Mary whose "YES" made all this possible.  Today we see her "travel in haste" to visit her cousin, Elizabeth, also with child, to help her before her child is born. (Lk 1:39-45).  Mary could have sat home, relishing the astounding news of her pregnancy and the Divine Child within her, and playing the role of the" Queen Mother" to the hilt. But no, she, the Ark of the New Covenant, carries the Divine Presence to Elizabeth, whose womb-bound child leaps for joy in recognition of the Holy One within Mary.. A selfless act of Mary, the beginning of her mission to bring Jesus to others, to all of us.  She goes in haste, not wasting a moment, making the hundred mile, 4 day trip to bring Jesus to others, and she hasn't stopped since. She lays out the template for all disciples of Jesus:  bring him to others without any concern of the cost to yourself: Waste no time, sacrifice yourself, carry him to all by acts of thoughtfulness, kindness, compassion and love.  Help the souls you contact jump for joy at the encounter with Jesus living within you.
Bro Rene

Mary's Pivotal Yes...and Ours

Note:  time limited, slice thin, but powerful.

Eve said NO, Mary said YES.   What do I say when asked to enter the unknown, to take a risk, to bare my soul, to lay down my life for the sake of others?
Bro. Rene

The Importance of Silence

When Zechariah, father of John the Baptist, received the news in the Holy of Holies that his wife, Elizabeth, although past the age of childbearing, was to have a son, his disbelief imposed a forced muteness upon him until the child was born and called John. (Lk 1: 5-25). Understandably in shock at the news, he might justify his "loss of words" as we find it happening to us at some startling announcement, but this silence persisted and gave Zechariah a chance to ponder the working of God and the plan he had laid out for this child of promise. Cardinal Robert Sarah, noted theologian, points out that "In silence, not in the turmoil and noise, God enters into the innermost depths of our being....God's being has always been present in us in an absolute silence. And a human being's own silence allows him to enter into a relationship with the Word that is at the bottom of his heart.  Thus, in the desert, we do not speak. We listen in silence; man enters into a silence that is God....Silence is not an absence.  On the contrary, it is the manifestation of a presence, the most intense of all presences."  (Magnificat, December p. 288). In his imposed silence, Zechariah found God  We have been seeking ways to prepare for Christmas during this Advent.  Let silence be one of them. There is still time.
Bro. Rene

Joseph's Consternation

Today's gospel from Matthew (Mt 1: 18-25) gives us a clear picture of Joseph...torn between his commitment to Mary and puzzled by the pregnancy of his betrothed: What to do? We can imagine his consternation, perhaps sleepless nights and many prayers as he wrestled with this decision.  God, in his infinite goodness provides the solution through the message of an angel in a dream. "Take and marry Mary who is the bride of the Holy Spirit through whom she is with child." Obediently, though perhaps he did not fully understand the message, he took Mary into his home and raised the child as his own.. Dilemma resolved.
While an angel might not come to us in a dream, giving a problem time and prayer, and trusting what comes to us by night in a dream or "little voice" often provides a solution that stress and duress do not provide.  Trust that God hears our prayers, as he did Jospeh's, and turn away from consternation to peace.
Bro. Rene

The Family Tree of Jesus

Ancestry.com and other ancestor search engines are helping people today to reconnect with their roots.  In tribal societies, where records were not kept on paper, memory and constant repetition of family ancestry, particularly at weddings or funerals, kept the family tree before the eyes of its members.  It is still an important facet of life in most countries in Africa.
It is no surprise, then, that St. Matthew begins his gospel with the genealogy of Jesus. (Mt 1:1-17) He arranges it in 3 groups of 14 from Abraham to Joseph, the husband of Mary.  It's consoling to know that Jesus has a family tree, although most of the names mean nothing to us. We recognize David, and that is enough to legitimize his connection to royalty, though his kingdom is not of this world. The genealogy also affirms the humanity of Jesus, his membership in a human family with a long, established ancestry. He's not just someone who popped out of nowhere.  It helps bring us closer to Jesus, the Man, our brother, with whom we too share a family.
Bro. Rene

On The Authority of Jesus

It's hard these days to put credibility in anyone, it seems; so much has been uncovered as false or biased, in the political arena, and in the Church itself.  Where does one turn?  To Jesus, the ultimate authority, who is Truth, and cannot deceive.  His authority comes to us between the pages of a comprehensive book called, The Holy Bible, and in the teachings of the Church, guided in the truth by the Holy Spirit.The core of the Rock of Peter, remains strong and faithful to the Truth, although tarnished on the exterior by the frailty of the humans in whose hands the deposit of truth has been entrusted.  As we approach Christmas and the coming of our God to dwell among us, let us ask him to help us "keep it simple," relying on his authority, the force of his presence, consistency of his teaching, and magnitude of his compassion for all.
Bro. Rene

Rejoicing at All Times

The Liturgy calls us to rejoice on this Third Sunday of Advent, as we cross over the "hump" to Christmas despite our aches and pains and the wounds our Church and world are suffering.  John the Baptist was in prison, and no doubt rejoiced when he listened to the list of deeds Jesus sent him:  "The blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the dear hear, the dead are raise, and trhe poor have the good news proclaimed to them." (Mt 11:5).  May we use this day to reflect on the good things going on in our lives and world, and rejoice, again, I say," rejoice!
Bro Rene

Hint Of Suffering To Come

After the glorious experience of the Transfigured Jesus, Jesus casually mentioned that suffering awaited him in the months ahead: "So also will the Son of Man suffer at their hands." (Mt 17: 12). The disciples seemed to have missed the hint, focusing on John the Baptist. In the midst of Advent when we are reflecting on the coming of our God among us, we are not ready to hear about his leaving, particularly, as it turned out, so painfully.  Yet, from the beginning this was the plan, and we see it in the swaddling clothes in which the infant was wrapped.  These were the cloths wrapped around a newborn lambs, to dry them off and keep them warm  Later, John the Baptist would announce Jesus as the Lamb of God, "Behold, the Lamb of God," (Jn 1:29) the sacrificial lamb that was offered for the remission of our sins.
The Advent Season has its pressures:  our desire for time to reflect on the meaning of God With Us, the search for quiet, peaceful moments of prayer and pondering of the beautiful texts from Isaiah that flood us daily, all opposed by shopping, baking, decorating, gift shopping and wrapping, attending concerts and parties. Not "suffering" per se but undo tension, or so it would seem, that we could do without.  It might be, however, a cause for "letting go," relaxing in God a truly Advent stance, and putting into practice these words of Jesus: What I'm trying to do here is get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving....Steep yourself in God-reality, God-initiative , God-provisions.  Don't worry about missing out.You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. (Mt 6:31 The
Message)
Bro Rene

Was Blind, But Now I See

Note:  It's good to be back home after a successful operation and days of healing in the hospital.  Good to be able to cut slices of daily bread with all of you...God is GOOD!

St. Lucy's Day used to be considered the day of the Winter Solstice in the old Julian calendar but now, according to the Gregorian Calendar, it's December 21, and can't come soon enough.  Living in this darkness with the sun setting at 4 pm does not help to keep "spirits bright."  The darkness, however, does remind us of our own "blindness" as we let so many things unimportant, non-essential concerns blind us to the mystery and wonder of these days of preparation for Christmas.  Once in awhile we're given "light" and the scales fall from our eyes and we can sing as our own, the words of AMAZING GRACE:  "Was blind, but now I see."  May St. Lucy intercede for us so that we may see the real meaning behind gift-giving, decorations, festivities and family gatherings and appreciate the wonder of EMMANUEL, GOD WITH US.
Bro. Rene

Healing Our Blindness

When  two blind men asked Jesus for a cure, he responded with the question: "Do you believe that I can do this?" (Mt 9: 28). They answered in the affirmative and Jesus, and Jesus restored their sight, as he said, because of their faith. (Mt 9:29).
So often we are so blind that we don't even see it...(pun intended)...and even more, when we do begin to see what's blocking our vision, be it ambition, pride, or half-heartedness,  when asking for help we don't have the same faith that these two had, and our blindness continues. Again, it comes to FAITH...Jesus' question, "Do you believe I can do this?" is key to all aspects of our relationship with him.  Do we believe he knows us, is with us, loves us? Do we believe he can heal our faults and  weaknesses, forgive ours sins, and help us to become the person God created us to be?  When we approach Jesus with a full-hearted faith and trust, the scales that blind us will begin to fall off.
Bro Rene

On A Rock

God is often referred to as a Rock in the Bible:  "May the Lord be our Rock and our fortress, protect us from all distress, Amen." ( cf. 2 Sm 22:2) "There is no one holy like the Lord; there is no one beside you; thee is no Rock like our God." (1 Sm 2:2).  "He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just.  A faithful God who does no wrong; upright and just is he." (Dt 32:4).  Being familiar with the Scriptures and being a carpenter, it is not surprising that Jesus should use the analogy of a solid rock foundation for the building of a house and the building of a solid relationship with God.  If the foundation of such a spiritual life is God, then indeed it will survive the storms of life, the big and the small.  Anything less than God is sand and the "spiritual house" is doomed to collapse
Bro. Rene

Jesus Feeds the Hungry

Appropriately at the beginning of Advent, we have a picture of our compassionate, hands-on Jesus healing all who were brought to him and feeding the crowd with seven loaves and a few fish. (Mt 15:29-37). Jesus was moved inwardly, that same groaning of spirit that he experienced at the tomb of Lazarus, his friend. This picture of Jesus is comforting to us, who also come to Jesus in need of healing and hungering for food and drink. As we step back during this season to reflect on the promise of salvation, the coming of Jesus, we ready our souls to receive the healing and nourishment that Jesus alone can give.  Look at Jesus in action during this scene and know that that same concern and compassion is there for us.  He knows what we need and will take care of us, even when the odds are against us.
Bro. Rene

To The Childlike

"Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, 'I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike'." (Lk 10:21)  What does it mean to be childlike, if not trusting, spontaneous, enthusiastic, optimistic, welcoming, loving, guileless, energetic and joyful?  Without the crust of skepticism or cynicism, the childlike play freely, running with the ball no matter what people say or think of them. Talk to anyone who has been "born again", and see the enthusiasm that made Ignatius a great leader and attract-er of followers, such as Francis Xavier.  When Francis turned away from his sarcasm, doubt, and self-centredness, there was not stopping him.  He went "wild" for preaching and baptizing in India, Ceylon, Malacca and Japan...in just ten years,,,He wore himself out because he let the Holy Spirit turn him into a child for Christ...May he help us to follow that same path.
Bro. Rene

Humbly Entreating

This second day of Advent, we encounter the Roman Centurion who asks Jesus for the healing of his, and in so doing has left us a prayer that we use every time we approach the altar to receive the Holy Eucharist:  "Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed." (Mt 8: 8).  Jesus is astonished at the man's faith and humility and cures the servant at that very hour. None of us is "worthy" or entitled to receive anything for which we ask, but in God's immense love, he grants our requests because of HIS goodness,  his WORTHINESS, not ours.  May we approach God, not with fear, but with the confidence, trust, faith and humility of the centurion.
Bro. Rene

Stay Awake

Advent has begun as of 4 pm yesterday. St. Paul and Jesus both greet us with the admonition to be awake during this season:  "You know the time: it is the hour now for you to awake from sleep." (Rm 13:11).  "Therefore, stay awake!" (Mt 24: 42). Easy to say, but work to do.  Perhaps looking at this First Sunday of Advent, the beginning of the new liturgical year, we might make some Advent Resolutions as we do on New Years' Day.  What will help us prepare or hearts to receive Jesus not only on Christmas, because he has already come, but also each day?  How will we blend our wills with his?  How will we return his boundless love?  How will we see him in our neighbor, in ourselves?  What will take us a step closer to being like him?
We might begin by "slowing down"..taking our time when we do things, pray, or talk with people.  We might take little "retreat breaks" during the day, shutting off the noise around and within us, and simply pray, "Come, Lord Jesus."  We might, like Mary, ponder the events of the past year, past  Advents and Christmases, and give thanks over and over for the immeasurable blessings God has given us.  The readings for Advent, the Music, the little Advent booklets we might find, service to Lazarus House, Cor Unum or the St. Vincent de Paul Society, all of these are ways to STAY AWAKE!
Bro. Rene

Peter's Brother

Matthew's account of the recruitment of Peter and his brother Andrew has them leaving their nets and boats at the behest of Jesus to follow him, "Come after me and I will make you fishers of men" (Mt 4:19).  John has  Andrew and another disciple of John the Baptist spending an afternoon with Jesus and then telling Peter, Andrew's brother, that they had found the Messiah.  The next day, Andrew brought Peter to Jesus. (cf. Jn 1: 35-42).  Peter, James, and John accompanied Jesus to Mt. Tabor and to the Garden of Gethsemane, but Andrew was not included.  He assumed a quiet role among the Twelve, though he brought attention to the boy with the five barley loaves and two fishes in John 6: 8-9.  He seemed to avoid the spotlight and take care of practical details.  After Pentecost, tradition says he preached in Greece where he died a martyr upon an X-shaped cross, which adorns the flag of Great Britain today, since his relics were said to have been brought to Scotland.
There is a place for quiet folks behind the scenes among the followers of Jesus. Not all have to be great preachers or miracle-workers, but simply faithful care takers of details, or crumb sweepers.  If done in the spirit of St. Andrew, they might not merit a martyr's crown nor a national flag, but certainly a crown in heaven.
Bro Rene

Looking For A Sign

In his usual simple way, Jesus calls our attention to a simple sign from nature:  the budding of the fig tree and other trees...Even we know this ageless sign:  the buds mean that Spring is right around the corner, as the falling leaves signal, for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, the coming of Winter.  Signs indicate wonderful things to come, or bad, but always seem to be there.  We wonder if our prayers will be answered, or we wonder what decision we should make and wish we had a sign to help us know the answer.  It's not forbidden to ASK for a sign, and God, as he did with Gideon and so many of his Old Testament prophets and Judges will give us the sign. It's not hocus pocus but really works...Try it.  God is right there and will hear us...Believe, Trust!
Bro. Rene

Thanking God

 In the United States, this day is dedicated to thanking God for the blessings we receive daily and often take for granted.  Stemming from a tradition dating back to the first settlers in Massachusetts who celebrated a successful year along with Native Americans, setting aside ONE day for an official thank you has become a national event.  Families gather around a traditional meal and gratitude, and the recognition of God's generosity are the theme for the day.  No matter where we are, it helps to pray in thanksgiving, for we thus acknowledge that without the help and grace of God, we would have very little, or nothing.  The following prayer by Fr. Herbert Yost, CSC,  puts the appropriate words on our lips and in our hearts:

God of abundant generosity, source of all blessing, on this celebration of Thanksgiving, we call to mind the blessings of this year. Many of us have much to be thankful for—loving relationships, good health, meaningful work and time to spend with family and friends. Bless all those who go without these gifts today, especially the poor, sick and lonely. May we share what we have been given with others, mindful that all that is good comes from You.
Please accept our feelings of gratitude and make those feelings our prayer of thanksgiving. We ask this in the name of Jesus the Christ, and through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Happy Thanksgiving..
Bro. Rene

The World That Will Never End

We continue today with Luke's description of the "Eschatological Discourse" of Jesus, the passing away of this world as we know it. (Lk 21:12-19) This has been a hot topic for centuries, with groups periodically appearing with the "definite date" of the end of the world, mistakenly taken so seriously be some that they have divested themselves of all belongings to be ready for "the end." The words of Jesus, are, however, a stark warning that we have not here a permanent kingdom, and the time will eventually come, in the life of each of us, and for the whole world, to move onto the next world.  Yes, we are to make every effort to help bring this world to its best possible state, but we also must be aware that the World That Will Never End, heaven, is our final goal.  Let us not forget that, especially as we accompany each other along the way.
Bro. Rene

Nothing To Fear

St. Marcellin Champagnat, who lived in a time of turmoil, from the Revolution of 1789, and through the revolution of 1830, in the clutches of poverty, borrowing and begging, would constantly remind the brothers to fear nothing for we have God as our defender.  In that same light, Jesus admonished his followers there was nothing fear, even though the temple be destroyed, nations rise against nations, famines, earthquakes, and plagues ravish the world. (Lk 21:5-11). The important thing is to trust and keep focused on him.  How true for us in the age of unrest and division in which we live..  God is faithful and ever remains our defender.
Bro. Rene

Two Coins Are Enough

When the rich poured their hefty gifts into the treasury, they did not receive any recognition nor accolade from Jesus, but a poor widow who gave two small coins has been immortalized as the model of generosity. (Lk 21: 1-4). Why?  Because she gave from her poverty, not from her abundance. This kind of giving says that love  does not count the cost, and that trust assures that in some way these coins will be replaced.  It's not  uncommon for a double-sized gift to appear out of the blue when one has given the last coin. The "coin" might not be just money, but time, advice, a kind word, a smile, a hand shake, a hug...something that on the surface is just "a small coin", but to the recipient, a treasure. No "coin" is too small when given with love and trust.
Bro. Rene

Christ Our King

The Solemnity of Christ the King, which we celebrate today, was introduced by Pope Pius XI in 1925 as a means in counterbalancing the drift toward secularism which was already making sharp inroads into traditional Christian beliefs and practices.  If it were needed then, how much more NOW?  The Gospel for today is not very regal, on the contrary, it presents the King of Kings hanging on the cross in a "discussion" with the two thieves hanging on their crosses besides him. (Lk 23:35:43). Yet it is fitting for the feast, for that death on the cross was the ultimate sign of the love the King of the Universe has for us, and the door to our salvation and entrance into the Kingdom of God.  It was a dramatic way of saying, "I love you."  He has left us with a mission to spread that love and will come again at the end of time to establish that Kingdom of Love in its definitive form.  It is up to us to carry on the mission, to ward off the powers of evil that still work so diligently to counteract our task by attacking us from within and without. Let us continue to work for our King, the King of Love and of the Universe, and tell him over and over again, "I love YOU!"
Bro. Rene 

Lookkng Ahead

Today's readings deal with our life here and our life hereafter. (1 Mac 6:1-13) and (Lk 20:27-40).  In the first reading, a defeated King Antiochus falls into depression and eventually death, looking back at his life and the crimes he has committed as the reason for his "punishment", defeat and death in a foreign land. A terrible way to make one's exit, but as one has lived, so one dies.  On the other hand, Jesus answers the question of multiple marriages on earth and what happens to them in the next life. Jesus answered (for the record) that there will be no marriage then. The point is, that we use our time here to "become the best version of ourselves", keep the Law of Love, meditate on it and live it, stay focused on the future while doing our best here, remember that our salvation comes through Jesus, not ourselves,  and leave the rest up to God. 
Bro. Rene

Cleansing of the Temple

We read today of an angry Jesus cleansing the Temple of merchants and money changers: "My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves" (Lk 19: 46).  It was a just and righteous anger reflecting the sentiments of the Psalmist, "The zeal for your house consumes me."  (Ps 69 10 ) and we might easily chime in when we look at the corruption being daily exposed in the Church. But before pointing the finger at the institution, it might be better to look closer at ourselves and find the thieves and money changers in our own hearts.
Bro. Rene

Totally Dedicated

Note:  A phone call just before the deadline prevented this slice from being posted yesterday.  It appears today as a bonus

Today's Memorial of the Presentation of Mary in the Temple highlights several facets of Mary's life for our contemplation today.  Although the presentation is not found in the Bible, it has become part of our tradition stemming from the Protoevangelium of St. James, an apocryphal work of the 1st century. According to the story, Mary is born to Anna and Joachim, and elderly couple,  similar to Abraham and Sarah, and Zechariah and Elizatbeth, recalling the special intervention of God in her birth...for a purpose:  to be the Mother of God.  She is presented in the Temple, yet later becomes the Temple of the Holy Spirit from which comes the Son of God.  She is totally dedicated to God her whole life and particularly from the moment of her "FIAT"...let it be done to me when Jesus is conceived in her and shares in his role of Savior of the World.  The grace of salvation comes to us to us through this totally dedicated woman who also serves as a model of dedication to us as dedicated disciples of Jesus.
Bro. Rene

Every Coin Counts

We have been conditioned to make sure we "get our money's worth."  Ask any shopper.  Today's Parable of the Gold Coins (Lk 19: 11-28) fits right into that kind of thinking, but it's not just about money, it's about the gifts or talents God has given us.  Some have received in abundance, others lesser amounts, but the point is they all have to be used. Hiding them out of fear not only spoils God's plan, but kills us and hurts those around us.  We do not know nor cannot measure the effect of our presence alone has on others, nor of something we say and don't even remember afterwards.  The slightest thing, a simple "hello" can make a difference in someone who's feeling isolated or unappreciated.  God does not want us to compare our stock of talents with others, or to hide it but to use whatever "coin" or gift he has given us, and let the results be determined by him.
Bro. Rene

The Beauty of Conversion

We reflected on the story of Zacchaeus not too long ago, but it comes up again in today's Liturgy. (Lk 19: 1-10) as an example of how conversion is a consequence of our longing and God's merciful grace.  Our efforts alone won't bring about the change of life and closeness to God we desire, for "all is grace".  It's God's gift that converts us; we simply prepare our hearts for it by longing from the depths or our soul for that tranquil union which entices us to keep yearning. St. Augustine spent at least 20 years searching for Truth with his mother's prayers watering the soil of his parched heart. When the moment Truth overpowered him and Beauty overtook him, he yielded in tears and turned his long search into a blending of his will, heart and soul with God's and experienced a joy and beauty that until this moment had eluded him.  Zacchaues had a similar desire which took him up a tree above a jeering crowd, so he could simply see Jesus.  Then grace descended upon him with the  self-invite of Jesus to dine with him. The floodgates of repentance and conversion opened, moving him to come up immediately with a plan of action for his new-found joy.  A moment of Beauty as we see a man born again.  Let us pray for our own on-going conversion as well as for those who are searching for it that we too may "walk in beauty."
Bro. Rene

"Lord, Please Let Me See

The prayer of the blind Bartimeus, "Lord, please let me see" (Lk 18:42). could easily be ours.  Some of us might need physical sight, yes, but the rest of us seek to know God's plan for us, how best we can use the marvelous gifts of grace he has given us: our humility, tenderness, compassion, patience, endurance, strength, insight, presence, desire to help others and love. What is God's plans for our best use of them? Our plea will not go unheeded, though the answer may not be as swift as was granted to Bartimeus. He called out so loudly and persistently that others rebuked him and tried to shush him, making him shout all the more until Jesus noticed him. Like his, may our prayers be as strong and persistent that we too may SEE.  Bartimeus, help us to pray as you did.
Bro. Rene

Patient Endurance

The Gospel selection for today warns of persecution and violence (Lk 21:5-19) and concludes that "By your perseveance you will secure your lives." (Lk 21:19).  Persecution was not simply something back in "Roman Times:, nor in 16th century Japan and England, not 19th century Korea and Vietnam, but goes on even today.  Since 2003, 500,000 Christians have been forced out of Iraq, many were slaughtered before they could leave.Suffering and pain come in the footsteps of Jesus,  who endured rejection and death himself.
In light of this "bigger picture". what is a back ache or upset stomach? Even more serious setbacks, such as job loss, or untimely death, all become part of the Patient Endurance Picture that we need to move ahead in this "Beautiful World" described by Louis Armstrong, or in this "vale of tears" mentioned in our beloved Salve Regina (Hail Holy, Queen). Saint Nilus of Sinai calls  Patient Endurance "The queen of virtues, the foundation of virtue, a haven of tranquility.  It is peace in time of war, calm in rough waters, safety amides treacher and danger.  It makes those who practice it stronger than steel." (Magnificat  November 2019 p. 265).  Dear God, grant me the grace of patient endurance, when I think I can't stand one more disappointment or trial.
Bro.  Rene

Persistance Pays Off

Today's thin slice of bread focuses on the need to persevere in prayer, even though the answer seems to be hidden under a rock.  The classic example is the twenty year prayer of Monica for the conversion of her son, Augustine.  How many of us would persevere for twenty years?  Yet, the conversion came, and it ways mighty.  He became a bishop for the next 40 or so years.   She died soon after his baptism, her mission in life accomplished.  Sometimes the wait is that long, other times the answer comes at the most unplanned time, such as on a walk when grace floods in and overflows with tears...of joy, of realization that God has been there all the time.  Gratitude of huge proportions follows... Moral:  STAY WITH IT, for we know not the day nor the hour when the answer will come.
Bro. Rene

Fair Warning

The words of Jesus concerning "the day the Son of Man is revealed" (Lk 17:26 ) serve as a fair warning that complacent eating and drinking, buying, selling planting and building, the ordinary things we do each day can easily be disrupted.  Jesus was speaking about his Second Coming, but remind us, as we so often experience, that a stroke, heart attack, accident or surprise stage four cancer diagnosis are possibilities that don't hold high priority status in our daily comings and goings. A popular stance used to be:  "Live each day as if it were the last day of your life."  Without dwelling on the morose, or arousing unnecessary fear, it is good and wholesome to remind ourselves, that truly we "know not the day nor the hour", so living the best we can at any given moment will keep us prepared for the surprise "intrusion." Jesus gives us this paradox which could and should serve as a cardinal principle in our lives:  "Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses it, will save it." (Lk 17:33)   The more we "die" to self, the more we live in God.
Bro. Rene

Where Is The Kingdom Of God?

When the Pharisees asked Jesus when the Kingdom of God would come,  he answered, "The coming of the Kingdom of God cannot be observed, and no one will ever announce, 'Look, here it is'; or, 'There it is.' For behold the Kingdom of god is among you.'"  (Some translations read, "within" you.) (Lk 17:20)
The Book of Wisdom sheds some light on what makes the Kingdom alive among or within us:  When we see "the spirit of Wisdom, intelligent, holy, unique,/ Manifold, subtle, agile, clear, unstained, certain, / not bashful, loving the good, keen,/ unhampered, beneficent, kindly,/ Firm secure. tranquil,/ all-powerful, all-seeing,/ and Pervading all spirits,/ though they be intelligent, pure and very subtle", we have a clear description of what life in the Kingdom is meant to be. Peaceful, quiet ( no noise stimulating or annoying us at every turn), free of anxiety, worry or stress...a world we long for and can have if we but put the skids on our busyness and take time during each day to STOP, REFLECT,  DELVE INTO THE DEPTHS OF OUR SOUL and  give the spirit of Wisdom a chance.
Bro. Rene

Gratitude

We meet the Ten Lepers again today in the gospel passage that never grows old,  as neither does gratitude.  (Lk 17: 11-19).  How often do we say "I can never thank you enough." or reiterate that sentiment in our prayer when God has graced us with a surprised or asked-for favor?  Yet, only ONE of the TEN returns to thank Jesus for his life-changing cure. Jesus assured him that in addition to his cleansing from leprosy, his salvation was assured. "Stand up and go; you faith has saved you." (Lk 17: 19).  Notre Dame graduate, David Boudrot sums up the effects of gratitude even on a simply human level:
Recent research in positive psychology has turned our attention to the role of gratitude in our overall wellbeing. Gratitude helps us note and appreciate positive experiences, build strong relationships, deal with adversity, improve our health, increase our resiliency, and view the future more confidently and optimistically. When that gratitude is directed to God, our intentions move beyond our own wellbeing toward the well being of others. Gratitude is an essential Christian tool for orienting ourselves towards the kingdom of God with hope, longing, and joy. (Faith ND reflection, Nov 13, 2019).
May we bond with the one leper who said thanks, and never let ingratitude separate us from the God whom we cannot thank enough.
Bro Rene

Humble Service

Jesus give us a dose of humility in today's brief gospel passage, one that fits right into our Marist love of doing good quietly.  The role of the servant is to serve the will and needs of others.  Any one who lives or works with others knows that there is no limit to service.  Day after day, time after time, we repeat the same little tasks, attending to details no one else seems to notice, and receiving no thanks for our un-noticed efforts. Jesus tells us, we are "unprofitable servants, having done what we were obliged to do." (Lk 17: 10).  And so we are.  Do we deserve accolades for doing what we are supposed to do? When did God die and we take his place?  Indeed, we are not worthy of anything; it is all gift. May we go about our daily duties with love and this humble recognition of who we are, then joy will abide.
Bro. Rene

Wisdom

The Book of Wisdom begins with call to justice and integrity:  "Love justice, you who judge the earth;/ think of the Lord in goodness, and seek him in integrity of heart;" (Wis 1:1).  Jesus warns us of the opposite:  to beware of leading others, particularly the young into sin. (Lk 17:1).  A just life, a life of integrity, charity, forgiveness and faith, demands commitment and discipline, not just momentary warm feelings, and certainly not self-seeking.  It is a God-centered life, based on a loving relationship with him which gives us the courage, fortitude and strength to live for God and neighbor. We have examples throughout our history of saints and soldiers, laymen and religious who have lived this way, such as St. Martin of Tours, whose Memorial we keep today, or the countless men and women who have served in the military to preserve our freedom and values, whom we honor today.  A selfless life, is possible.  The bar is set high; we can reach it with the help of God and one another. This is living out wisdom, not just talking about it or wishing for it.
Bro. Rene

Encouraging One Another

As we approach the end of the Liturgical year in two weeks on the Solemnity of Christ the King, we begin to prepare our hearts for the "End Times".  Today's gospel passage raises questions about life after death.  What happens to us? (Lk 20: 27-38).  Jesus does not elaborate much beyond saying that there is life after death, and that in some way we will be "like angels" and children of God"  Is Jesus implying that we need not spend too much time imagining our future, but rather use our time and gifts NOW to give hope and encouragement to others, and to lighten the burden that we experience daily through our worries and stresses?
Paul wrote this to the Thessalonians who were also wondering about the future:  May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting encouragement and good hope through his grace, encourage your hearts and strengthen them in every good deed and word.  (2 Thess 16-17). What difference can I make in my attitude and in the life of someone else, if I make encouragement my goal today?
Bro. Rene

God's Temple

We the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, AKA St. John Lateran, we honor the Mother Church of the Roman Catholic Faith, a large and beautiful basilica dating back to the time of Emperor Constantine, the first emperor to grant freedom of worship to Christians.  The building came to him as part of his wife's dowry and sections of it include the original building. It was used by the Pope as his seat. Additions over the centuries have enhanced it, making it a showpiece of art as well as a place of worship. It is still today the Pope's official church as Bishop of Rome.
One might look on it as a sign of the temple of the Holy Spirit, our bodies...made of many parts, enhanced over the years,subject of attacks and pillaging, and always in process of rebuilding. Both buildings and bodies need attention, care, renovation and renewal, if they are to preserve their beauty and endure the ravages of time.  Our Annual Feast reminds us of this beautiful temple as well as that even more beautiful temple, our body, in which dwells the Spirit of God. Because of this, may we treat it with utmost care.
Bro Rene

Prudence

The Parable of the Unjust Steward might cause us some confusion unless we take some time to delve into it.  We wonder why the unjust steward's master praises him for feathering his own future nest by lowering the debts owed his master without his knowledge or permission.  The master commended him for his cleverness, even though he was cheating him.  (Lk 16:1-8).  Obviously he was not commended for his deceit, but for exercising prudence in looking after himself.
How prudent are we in caring for ourselves?  Do we overstuff ourselves with the wrong foods?  Deprive ourselves of sleep and family time to make "the extra buck?" Neglect exercise to insure mobility and prevent excess weight gain?   And speaking of neglect, how about prayer, Sunday worship, and service to others?  How about even simple acts of kindness?  The virtue of prudence can help prevent or resolve problems in our lives if we use it.  The unjust steward has a lesson for us.
Bro. Rene

Finding the Lost

Yes, when we lose things, St. Anthony immediately comes to mind, not Jesus, but today's gospel passage, (Lk 15:1-10) gives us two parables of the three in this chapter, which remind us that God himself, like a shepherd leaving the 99 to find the one lost sheep or a poor woman searching for a lost coin, will not give  up until what is lost is found. Jesus, the good Shepherd, reflecting  God's persistence, makes every effort to bring back that one lost sheep.  Francis Thompson in his poem, THE HOUND OF HEAVEN, goes to great lengths to describe the determination of the "Hound" to bring back the stray. This might be comforting to some, but scary to others, or causing others to ask, "Does this really happen, since I see to many 'lost' or straying far from the flock?"  We do not see the whole picture, and need to trust that if Jesus said it, it happens.. Free will might prevent a happy ending in every case, but rest assured, God is making every effort to gradually, if not dramatically, retrieve the lost.
Bro. Rene

Discipleship Requirements

Here are a couple of startling thoughts on Discipleship:

"...everyone of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple."  (Lk 14:33)

"If we do not have love in our hearts,
our words will have little meaning.
If we do not truly enjoy our faith, nobody is going to catch the fire of enjoyment from us.
If our lives are not actually centered on Christ, we will not be Christ-bearers for others."
Madeleine L'Engle
Bro. Rene

Excuses

"Blessed is the one who will dine in the Kingdom of God." (Lk 14:15).  Despite this happy prospect, Jesus went on to explain how people made excuses not to attend.  Human nature seems to be like that:  Something precious is offered to us, and we turn away to the paltry. Jesus doesn't force us, but we shortchange ourselves.  Free Will.  What we turn down, he offers to others.  May we have the wisdom, and, if necessary, the guts, to accept the invitation that comes our way...daily we are asked to attend the feast which might mean giving  up and old habit, or something we cherish, but in the end no comparison to a seat in the Kingdom.
Bro. Rene

Vocation Awareness Week

We are asked to consider God's Call and to help others hear that call as well.  The basic call is to holiness, to be a saint...one who simply gives over his life to God and allows God to complete the work begun even before we were conceived.  It's a life-long process, but we find encouragement in saints such as St. Charles Borromeo, who at first appeared to be learning and speech impaired.  He diligently set his mind to improve his speech and methodically achieve a Doctorate.  Working for the Church, as Cardinal of MIlan, he lived the Gospel, reformed the clergy and was instrumental in the  success of Council of Trent.  He serves as a model for all who think they "can't make it."
Bro. Rene

Never Too Late

Today we read the story of Zacchaeus, a despised tax collector, whose curiosity to see Jesus made him climb a tree from where he received a life-changing directive. (Lk 19:1-10) Not only did he see Jesus, but later dined with him in his own home and so moved, made major revisions in his dealings with others.  What power lies in contact with Jesus.  We don't have to climb a tree, but we can ask Jesus to come into our homes, our hearts and transform our behavior to match as much as possible the re-formation of Zacchaeus. He wasn't afraid of what others thought, as evidence by his perch in the tree; neither was he ashamed to admit his bad behavior and rectify it.  If he could do it, why can't you and I?
Bro. Rene

Remembering Our Deceased Loved Ones

Note: yesterday was Slice  3333!

Fittingly, our Scripture passages for today are filled with hope to balance our sorrow as we honor our many deceased family members and friends. "The souls of the just are in the hand of God and no torment shall touch them." (Wis 3:1) "Hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out inot our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us." (Rm 5:5)  "For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life, and I shall raise him up on the last day." (Jn 6:40).  Those who have gone before us, even if delayed for further purification, are in a safe place, "a better place," as the current expression goes.  We need not fear for them, but do need to take the opportunity today and this Month of the Holy Souls, to remember and cherish them, as a means of healing our sorrow and reminding ourselves that one day we shall follow them. Remembering, cleansing, preparing and giving thanks are fitting themes for the dark days of November, but may we find consolation, courage and hope as we look forward to Eternal life with God and with our loved ones and all the saints.
Bro. Rene

All Saints: A Call To Holiness

The Church celebrates the Solemnity of All Saints, to honor the host of disciples of Jesus who have lived according to his teachings and through miracles obtained through their intercession, have demonstrated that they are indeed in heaven.  Over the last 60 years we have seen a vast number of these faithful declared saints, many of whom were in the news during our lifetimes.  St. John Paul II canonized over 1,000 saints; Pope Benedict XVI, 45 and Pope Francis, another 45+. to show us in this age of doubt and indifference that holiness is possible.  Our gospel passage today is the Beatitudes, "Blessed are the...."  or in another translation, "Happy are the...." (Mt 5:1-12a).  What brings blessedness and happiness?  Living our lives with the compassion of God and with his love that desires the good of others. Through the prayers and witness of these who have lived this way, may we make it our goal to follow in their footsteps, for we are all called to holiness, to sainthood.
Bro Rene

All Hallow's Eve

Today's Gospel finds Jesus expressing his sadness and frustration over the cold reception and lack of response Jerusalem gave to his work there.  We see his tenderness as he laments, "Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how many times I yearned to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were unwilling!" (Lk 13:34). Almost like mourning the death of a loved one.  Appropriate for the Eve of All Saints, All Hallows, as it was once known, and as an introduction to the month of the Holy Souls.  Both occasions see us gathering to celebrate the dead, some who are with God in heaven, and others, needing further purification before they can enter the fullness of their heavenly reward.  As with so much of our experience, joy and sorrow mix.  So with the costumes and candy of Halloween, and the triumph of the saints, there is the sorrow of the loss of our loved ones.  May we take some time today in the next two days to sip from both cups...and, as always, give thanks to God.
Bro. Rene

Entering Through The Narrow Gate

We all carry too much baggage:  haunting memories of past deeds, fears of "being discovered",  anxieties over our ability to do an assigned task, a false sense of unworthiness, etc.  With these on our backs and in our carry-ons, we'd never get through the narrow gate unless one by one we put them down, or let them go.
Asking Jesus for help to do this will lighten our load and free us to squeeze through...or, even better, let him pull us through.  Without his him, his grace, his help, our baggage will keep us from enjoying the freedom he desires for us and that awaits us on the other side of the gate..  May we begin today by asking him to unburden us and pull us forward.
Bro Rene

Small Seeds

Jesus uses the mustard seed and yeast to explain how the Kingdom of God is to develop. (Lk 13: 18-21) "Small beginning, greater ends", wrote Donovan for one of the songs in the Franco Zefirrelli classic, Brother Sun, Sister Moon. We know from our own experience that seeds eventually surprise us with large plants, or a mound of dough, given time and warmth, will double in size.  So too with our faith, simple and childlike at the beginning, but stronger and more pervasive as we grow up. Communities, Congregations, organizations often begin with small numbers, and then increase beyond imagination. Two young men in the small village of LaValla in southern France were the foundation stones of the Marist Brothers, now 3,400 strong in 83 countries of the world. May we continue to cultivate and nourish the seed of Faith planted in our hearts and help the Kingdom of God to expand as our faith touches the hearts of others.
Bro. Rene

Montagne Day

Our Gospel passage for today, the Feast of the apostles Simon and Jude, recalls the calling  the Twelve Apostles and fittingly applies to the event that triggered the foundation of the Little Brothers of Mary, AKA the Marist Brothers.
Father Champagnat, newly arrived curate in the parish church in LaValla, was called to the bedside of a dying 17 year old, believed to be Jean-Baptiste Montagne.  Appalled by the boy's lack of knowledge of the Faith, Fr. Champagnat gave him a quick catechism lesson to prepare him to meet God, which he did later that day.  Determined from that event to put his plan to start a congregation of teaching brothers, he recruited two young men from the parish to help him in the task of making Jesus known and loved.  They moved into a house renovated by Fr. Champagnat himself on January 2, 1817, just about two months after this encounter.
Jesus chose twelve , Marcellin chose 2, but the ripple effect has reached billions. We pray and hope that we might help contribute to this "tsunami" by responding generously to the call to discipleship we might be hearing in our hearts.
Bro. Rene

Pray With Humility

Humility is often :"forced" on us as we time and time again find ourselves not meeting our own standards, not even able to get to bed when we wanted. We continually face the reality that we "are not in charge.  As we look at the contrast between the Pharisee and the Publican in today's Gospel, we see what true humility is: a full acceptance of our need for mercy, for we are indeed, incomplete, imperfect, and yes, sinners.  (Lk 18: 9-14).   We cannot list all the "good" that we do, for it might be done for the wrong reasons, out of pride, or self-satisfaction, or even self-aggrandizement.  But to say, quietly, "Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am a sinner," turns everything over to God; He will raise us up rather than we raising ourselves up.
Bro, Rene

Time to Repent

Repentance is a constant theme with Jesus and the Church sets time aside for it at two major periods in the Liturgical Year:  Advent and Lent, but it is also something recommended for Fridays, to commemorate the death of Jesus on Good Friday...a death that freed us from our sins and gave us the opportunity to be "born again", and as time goes by, to return back to God over and over again after we fail, regress, sin. The parable of the fig tree graphically recounts God's mercy and the need for time " to get it right." (cf. Lk 13: 6-9).  Jesus is not really talking about a fig tree and fertilizer, but US and the need to nurture ourselves, renew ourselves, turn from sinful ways, in a word, repent. May we have as much patience with ourselves in this repetitive process as he has with us, and may we never despair about eventually bearing the fruit we were intended to bear from all eternity.
Bro. Rene

The Signs Of The Times

"Red sky at night, sailors' delight", a familiar adage indicating tomorrow's weather, not so much used now with Doplar Radar and "Acu-weather" taking over; all still underscore our efforts to read the signs that will influence our future activities. This was as true in the time of Jesus as it is in our time and he uses it to scold the hypocrite who are so good at reading the weather signs, but not the signs of the ills in their lifestyles. 
We too could take a scolding in this as well. 
A recent survey has indicated a huge decline in church attendance, baptisms, first holy communions, and confirmations, provoking the question, "How did this happen?"  The indicators have been there for years, but we failed to see them; now it's very late, but not too late to reverse the trend;  When Chesterton was once asked  "What's wrong with the world?" he answered, "I am."  Yes, the reversal starts with me. How can I live my life better?  What needs to be changed in me?  Starting there will have an inevitable ripple effect.  Let it not be just words, but deeds...TODAY!
Bro. Rene

Cleansing With Fire

Jesus spoke with passion about his desire for the fulfillment of his mission, "I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already burning!" (Lk 12: 19). He was weary of the excuses he found justifying inaction, indifference, division and even hostility, even though his own words sound violent;  He set the stage for weeding out those less than passionate about living a life of love, compassion, forgiveness, hospitality and service. If it took fire to cleanse and purify, then let it be done, separating the pure metal from the dross.
As we look into our own history and hearts, do we find that fire or would we be those needing elimination, or at least a wake-up call?
Bro. Rene

Much Wil Be Demanded

"Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more." (Lk 12:48).  Scary, if not discomforting words. People whose lives seem to be on the endless receiving end of requests, asks, even demands begin to deduce that they must be one of those people so gifted that much is being demanded of them.   With the bar is set that high, the question arises, "How will I ever meet these endless demands?"  The answer is as close as the Jesus who is with us at all times.  "I can do all things through  Christ who strengthens me." (Phil 4:13). To test this, keep track of the many "to do's" on your list in the morning.  Formidable.  Look back at the list as you put your head on the pillow.  Somehow, most or all were done.  Never thought it would happen, but it did...time and time again.  Nothing to fear or let overwhelm us.  With Jesus we can do it all.
Bro. Rene

Staying Alert

Wedding  parties go long, in some countries, all through the night.  Those waiting for their boss's return from such a celebration might be fighting off sleep till dawn.  Jesus used this fact in his warning to stay alert, to be ready for the Master's Return.  (Lk 12: 35-38).  Words well taken when papers are full of sudden deaths, by car accident of shooting.. Medical reports from routine tests can reveal life-changing news.  Better to be ready than be taken by surprise.  Fidelity to prayer and good works, even when nothing exciting is going on, is a solid way to keep alert and be ready.
Bro. Rene

Not In Big Barns

Jesus is very clear that our future security is not in big barns. (Lk 12: 16-21).  In the Post-Christian era, where God has been forgotten, churches, schools are emptying and more energy is put into beautiful homes, yachts, cars  travel, and fine food, our hunger and thirst for God has been replaced  by these "big barns" we substitute for God.  Death eventually intervenes, and our hearses are not accompanied by U-Hauls. We certainly can't take any of our "treasures" with us.  No, says Jesus, our real treasure is in "what matters to God". (Lk 12:21). At Mass today, we prayed after communion:  "Grant, O Lord, that benefiting from  participation in heavenly things, we may be helped by what you give in this present and prepared for the gifs that are eternal."  Without an eye on eternity and the things of God, we are bound to be crushed when our "big barn" collapses.
Bro. Rene

Waiting

As our culture grows more impatient daily, despite Instagram, Twitter, drone "same-day" delivery, or maybe because of these, we expect everything to be FAST...from food to answers to our prayers.  When we have to wait, we become rattled,  lose our peace and tumble into the complaining pot. But who hasn't had to wait, even with the fastest technology at our beck and call?  Can we learn something from waiting, particularly when our prayers seem to get lost in some storage bin, and no response is immediately forthcoming? Today's Gospel, (Lk 18:1-8) give us some insight into the answer.  If the unjust judge eventually broke down to grant the widow's persistent pleas, how much more will the God of Love and Compassion grant our requests?  Justice will be done, prayers will be answered, says Jesus, but also asks: "When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?" (Lk 18:8) Will he instead find impatience and a missed opportunity to grown in faith?
Bro .Rene

On-Going Persecution

When we hear "persecution", we most likely think of the 300 year period of the intermittent Roman persecutions and martyrs, but today's Memorial of St Jean de Brebeuf,. Isaac Jogues, Rene and the five other North American Martyrs that persecution, as predicted by Jesus, would continue from his own time until the Second Coming. It is acknowledged that the 20th century was the bloodiest of centuries because of the two world wars, but it is not as widely known as the century of the most martyrs. Even today, persecution, direct and indirect goes on, a call for us to realize that our faith, if lived as it should be, is not a private affair, but public, and as such is open to ridicule and persecution. Would we be singled out for persecution by our zealous living of our faith, or would our half-hearted, lackadaisical practice of the faith provide the cover for us to escape?
Bro .Rene

Harvesters

Even at the time of Jesus, there weren't enough laborers for the Kingdom he was trying to establish. (Lk 10:1-2) We might find some consolation in being assured that we are not alone, although today the shortage seems much more acute and affecting larger numbers as parishes and schools close or combine, and the ranks of traditional "harvesters"  grow thinner.  Jesus told his followers to ask the Master for more workers, and so must we, as well as be ready  to step up to the plate ourselves, doing whatever we can to bring the Good News to others by our actions and words.
Bro. Rene

Using Our Gifts Well

In today's Gospel, Jesus continues to scold the  Pharisees for not using the gifts with which God has blessed them.  God's gifts are intended to be accepted, lived and used to bless others. In his letter to the Colossians, Paul writes ,"Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience....Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony." (Col 3:12, 14). Wouldn't our families, our cities, our world be better if we made  these virtues, these gifts, the template of our lives?  When we know someone who has integrated these gifts into his or her life, we feel such peace, such strength, that nothing seems impossible, even living this way ourselves.
Bro. Rene

Heavy Burdens vs. Merciful Love

Today's heavy-handed "woes" to the Pharisees and all who impose heavy burdens of guilt and demanding religious practice (Lk 11:42-46) demonstrate his desire for merciful love, which in the 17th century was made very clear and tangible through the devotion to his Sacred Heart fostered by a cloistered nun, St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, and her spiritual director St. Claude de la Colombiere. . Jesus appeared several times to St. Margaret Mary with his flaming heart visible on his breast as a sign of his immense love for all of us,  Images of the Sacred Heart adorn homes, schools, and churches, many of which bear the name, Sacred Heart. Devotion to the Sacred Heart helped reform the Church in France and around the world, as emphasis was placed on the love and mercy Jesus has for us. The practice of attending Mass on nine consecutive First Fridays, is still held dear, and followed faithfully as a way to recall Jesus's love and to spread it to others. May we use today to spread that mercy and love rather than impose unbearable burdens on others.
Bro. Rene

Giving Alms With A Clean Heart

Jesus proposed that giving alms would clean the inside as well as the outside of the person, for it is easy just to wash the outside of a cup, while leaving the tea stains or coffee grounds on the inside. 
Giving alms can be done superficially or out of guilt, but not with the love that purifies the act and cleanses the heart. To be effective, almsgiving or any good deed needs the foundation of a pure heart, the right reason for the act. As Fr. Richard Gula wrote: "Almsgiving corrects greed when we start from within to reach out beyond self-interest. Connecting hearts and hands in doing corporal works or mercy brings us to the deepest dimension of God's law of love." (Give Us This Day, October 15, 2019, p. 161).  When we see our hands as the instruments through which God blesses the world, as St. Teresa of Avila said, we are working out of  God's love, which alone gives worth to all things."
Bro. Rene

Reluctant Prophets

When God calls us to do something out of the ordinary, we naturally balk and look for excuses to escape his invitation. We're not alone in this.  Recently,we've been reading about Jonas and his reluctance to carry out God's wish that he preach repentance to the people of Nineveh. Isaiah and Jeremiah, two of the greatest prophets, expressed their reluctance  to follow the call:  "I am a man of unclean lips," (Is 6:5)  "Ah, ah, ah, I cannot speak for I am but a child" (Jer 1:6). Saul had to be knocked down and confronted byJesus himself before he took up his vocation.  Where would WE be if their reluctance had prevailed?  We can find all kinds of excuses, but Paul said it best when he wrote, "The weak things of the world, God has chosen to confound the strong and the foolish he has chosen to confound the wise: (1 Cor. 1:27). We grow in our faith as gradually we learn  that being "stretched" beyond our limits (I can do all things in him who strengthens me  Phil 4:13) we can  live more compassionate lives, and be able to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, be companion to the prisoner, comfort the brokenhearted.(cf.Mt 25).  When and how can I put aside my reluctance and accept my call?
Bro. Rene

Gratitude

How often as toddlers to teens did we hear our parents remind us to say, "Thank You"? It was ingrained deep enough to last a life-time, but still we might not express our gratitude enough to God for ALL his gifts, taking most of them for granted, or even as "entitlements." Students simulating the plight of the refugees on our southern border during the LaValla Weekend at the Marist Brothers Center for Spirituality in Esopus, New York, had the opportunity to be deprived of their shoes, and be supplied with cheap flip-flops for the day.  At the debriefing, one student said he never gave thanks for having his own shoes, until they were replaced with the flip-flops.  Sometimes we have to be shocked into the realization of how blessed, and at the same time, how ungrateful we are.
The ten Lepers in today's gospel (Lk 17:11-19) were quick to ask Jesus for a cure, but only ONE returned to say thank you...Are we that one, or one of the other nine?  Might be a good idea on this Sunday "day of rest" to take stock of our blessings and say thank you for each one.  That should occupy a good part of the day!
Bro. Rene

Hearing and Observing

One day while Jesus was speaking a woman called out to Jesus to express her admiration not only for his words, but for the mother who nourished and raised him: "Blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nursed." (Lk 11:27).  A beautiful compliment that would swell pride and joy in any mother, who are often the unsung heroines hidden behind the scenes. Yet Jesus replied, "Rather, blessed ar those ho hear the word of God and observe it." (Lk 11:28). In living and obeying God's word we too are blessed and might be considered mothers who nourish and bring up others in the faith. What an honor, one that comes from time spent listening to and pondering the Scriptures, reflections and homilies composed by others, or imitating the good actions of others.  We learn from others and become teachers ourselves through our example.  Blessed indeed are we.
Bro Rene

A House Divided

"A house divided cannot stand", a wise old adage that has proved itself true time and time again.   Today's gospel passage finds the crowd accusing Jesus of using the power of Beelzebul, to cast out demons...using the power of evil to cast out evil...a contradiction.  Jesus refutes them and asserts that it is by the power of God that he drives them out, but warns that the insidious demons don't stop at being ejected, but continue to prowl for other prey. (cf. Lk 11:15-16).
In our own lives, resisting temptation seems to bring only temporary peace, before the next onslaught occurs. It is a never-ending battle, but calling upon Jesus, simply by repeating his name over and over is effective in downing the devil, but more so, a life lived with a conscious effort to be AWARE of his abiding presence in and around us is a sure guarantee of victory.  Bound to Jesus in a loving relationship we prevent our house from being divided, rather, it keeps it whole and invulnerable.
Bro. Rene

Believing And Asking

How often does our daily prayer consist of a list of requests?  We always seem to be asking God for something, and rightly so, for he is the supplier  of  all needs, the giver of all gifts, and likes to be asked, especially when we do so in faith.  "The Lord is good to those who hope in him,/ to the soul that seeks him." (Lam 3:25). Hence, today's word of Jesus about the man begging his friend for bread at midnight, his persistence, and final compliance with his request.  "Ask and you will receive, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." (Lk 11: 9-10). Jesus reminds us that we are not dealing with a Scrooge, but with a loving Father.  Let us believe and not hesitate to ask, nor be disappointed when the inevitable answer comes not at the time or in the way we'd like it.
Bro. Rene

God's Mercy

The story of Jonah with its captivating image of the storm at sea and Jonah's three day stay in the belly of a large fish, concludes with the Ninevites repenting and Jonas angry enough to die.  His preaching worked, God's mercy forgave the Ninevites, but Jonah was not happy with this turn of events.  His value system, evidently did not allow for mercy and he pouted.  Anger clouded his vision as he sat in the burning sun, but God sent a plant to provide shade, and Jonah's mood immediately changed.  But when God sent a worm to kill the plant and it no longer provided shade, Jonah's joy turned to anger again, so bad that he wanted to die. Jonah certainly rode an emotional see-saw,  but
is not Jonah a picture of us?  We accept God's mercy only when it applies to us, not to others,  and when things go against our plans or comfort, we become angry and pout. When that happens it's  time to put on the eyes and heart of God's mercy and put our inner Jonah to rest.
Bro. Rene

The Better Part

In our world of "infinite demands and busyness" where our brain circuits are ever red and sleep suffers, it's time to take some time as Mary did, and sit at the feet of Jesus. Martha, in today's gospel passage (Lk 10: 38-42) is a vivid picture of ourselves....even to the point of complaining about her sister's lack of involvement in the meal preparation. When we get crabby and fault-finding on top of our physical fatigue, it's time to stop, sit at the feet of Jesus, say nothing, just listen, just BE.
Bro. Rene

Mary, Our Good Samaritan

The Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary calls to mind the power of the Rosary, experienced over the centuries and in the lives of so many contemporaries, but also blends nicely with the Good Samaritan parable that serves as today's gospel. Devotion to the Rosary is part of the legacy of St. Dominic and the Dominicans, and received major underscoring after the Battle of Lepanto in 1571 when Pope Pius V asked for the rosary to be prayed as the Christian Navy faced the much stronger and larger force of the Turks.   What seemed like an unlikely victory actually came to pass, and the original feast called Our Lady of Victory was established.  It was soon changed to Our Lady of the Rosary.
As Jesus pointed out in the parable, our true neighbor is one who goes the extra mile to show mercy for  another, even a stranger.  Mary, Mother of Mercy, does just that, for as a mother, she counts not the cost of spreading the mercy of her Son to all who ask for it. She is our Good Samaritan.
Bro .Rene

Unprofitable Servants

The longer the Apostles were with Jesus, the more they realized how weak their faith was, so today we find them asking, 'Increase our faith." (Lk 17: 5).  Jesus replies that faith the size of a mustard seed, we could move trees at whim.  A mustard seed is small, so Jesus is not demanding much, but then he goes on to remind us that rather than be discouraged by routine obligations, and recognizing that we have simply done our duty, if done with a grain of faith, they make us much more than "unprofitable servants."  May we be graced to see that even these simple daily tasks can be "profitable", for as St. James said, faith without works is dead, (Js 2:14-26) but the opposite is true too:  works without faith are not enough.
Bro. Rene

Real Success In Mission

We read of the exhilaration the 72 disciples expressed upon their return from their first mission, amazed that "even the demons are subject to us because of your name." (Lk 10:17).  Jesus is glad for them but also takes them a step further, telling them that they should be rejoicing more because their names are written in heaven than because they drove out demons or cured people. (Lk 10:18-19).
As we carry out our mission, we may have our moments of being "on a high", but the wise words of Jesus ring true for us too:  our names are written in heaven, yes, even when "success" has evaded us. The sincerity of our hearts and efforts outweighs a successful record, and it is for this that Jesus remembers us and inscribes our names on his heart.
Bro. Rene

So Much With So Little

Today the Church honors St. Francis of Assisi, one of the most popular and beloved saints of all times.  Christians of all denominations love him and his statues can be found in gardens and parks.  Lately, he has become the Ecology Saint for his love of animals and all of creation.  Certainly, his Canticle To the Sun bears witness to this.  But there is more to Francis than just sweet flower picking.
On the contrary, he put into practice what the prophets and Jesus taught: repentance, a reversal of life-style, a turning around from sinfulness to saintliness.
Born to a wealthy merchant in Assisi, Italy, Francis grew up having all he ever craved, and generously spent his father's money to entertain himself and his friends.  Captured and imprisoned during a battle with neighboring Perugia, he began a slow turn-around which culminated with a complete break from his family and acceptance of God as his sole provider and Father. In giving up everything, he became God's instrument in a major reform of a Church that had lost it's way in worldly power. Thousands of young men and women followed him even in his own lifetime, and his impact is still felt today. Working simply with poverty, simplicity and absolute trust in God, he was able to shore up a tottering Church. Do we need another Francis today, or to we simply need to put into practice what he lived?
Bro. Rene

Challenging Mission

St. Luke's 10th magnificent 10th chapter begins with the commission of the 72 disciples the difficult task of bringing the Word to every town and place he planned to visit. (Lk 10: 1).  Even at the beginning, the number of "laborers" was insufficient, and the need for recruits and object of prayer. In addition, he sent them as "lambs among wolves" for they in many ways would be devoured but an unfriendly population, a tale the runs through the post-resurrection persecution of Saul, the 300 year Roman persecution, the 19th, and 20th century persecutions in Asia, to the current anti-Christian persecutions, direct and subtle of today. The "missionaries" were to carry no tools, clothes, or food, but to rely on the providence of God working through people to sustain them, a command that Francis of Assisi followed to a T, but which has been nearly impossible for most others. Yet, the commission remains, and, relying on the power, grace and supply of God, we can carry it out. As we grow older we realize we must keep moving or our joints and muscles freeze up, so too on the spiritual level, we can't stop, but must move forward or the mission dies and the Kingdom of God suffers. "What is impossible for human beings is possible for God." (Lk 18:27)
Bro. Rene

Someone To Watch Over Me

A popular Gerswhin tune, Someone To Watch Over Me, can be applied to our Guardian Angel, whose Memorial we observe today. As far back as St. Basil in the 4th century, the tradition has been handed down, stemming from the Exodus story of the pillar of fire and the pillar of smoke protecting the Israelites, that God has assigned a special messenger (guardian angel) "to light and rule, protect and guide" us through life. How many times have we hesitated in making a turn or pulling into another lane, only to find that if we had done so then, that mysterious car which appeared out of nowhere would have hit us. May we give thanks to our angel today and join with him/her (?) in singing the thrice fold-holy holy holy in praise of our loving God.
Bro. Rene

A Saint For Everyone

Although God calls ALL of us to holiness, we seem to cringe in fear or a false sense of humility at the thought of becoming a saint.  This might come from comparing ourselves to the great saints whose lives are so full of extraordinary deeds that we can't imagine ourselves in their shoes. In recent  years, the Church has canonized men and women whose lives overlapped with ours, who were in the news constantly, photographed and travelled extensively to the point that we feel we actually knew them, yet even they seem to have done the "unreachable".
In 1925, a Carmelite Nun from a little convent in the unknown town of Lisieux, France, was canonized and has become one of the most popular saints of modern times, because her road to sanctity, "The Little Way" is within reach of  us all. She simply did the most insignificant tasks in the silence of her community with great love.  We can do that in our families, workplaces, on the street, in the supermarket, wherever. Her autobiography, THE STORY OF A SOUL exposed Therese's life and Way to millions, who responded with a resounding "YES.  I can do that too."  She has become the patroness of missionaries, pilots, the sick, florists and countless parishes and schools around the world.  May she continue to drop her rose petals upon us and spend her heaven continuing to do good for others, as she promised.
Bro. Rene

Bickering

Note:  This is our 3,300th slice of bread ... out of the "oven" on 9/30/19!

The "climate change" from polite disagreement to twitter-based bickering is upon us with a vengeance. But such bickering is not new.  Even this morning's gospel passage begins with he disciples arguing among each other about who was the greatest, or complaining about someone casting out demons in the name of Jesus who was not part of their group. (Lk 9:46-50).  Jesus reminded them that humility is key to smooth relations with others, that the least among them is really the greatest. We might put ourselves in this scene to learn that bickering gets us nowhere, but being humble and as receptive as a child are what bring about harmony.
Bro. Rene

Generous Use of Our Gifts

Both the prophet Amos and Jesus with his pointed parable of The Rich Man and Lazarus (cf. Amos 6: 1a, 6-7 and Lk 16:19-31) sharply warn us that what we have received from God, we cannot selfishly clutch while the poor knock at our gate. Eating and drinking while the world is collapsing will lead only to personal exile from God. The Rich Man found himself int he pit of hell, begging for a drop of water to cool his burning tongue.  St. Thomas reminds us that yes, we might enjoy the benefits of our labors but at the same time THE COMMON GOOD demands that we share what we have with those who have less. We might look into our hearts as well as into our accumulations of wealth and goods, and ask not, how much do I have, but how much do I care?
Bro. Rene

His Impending Death

Today's brief excerpt from St. Luke, (:43b-45) finds Jesus telling his disciples about his being "handed over", but they did not understand.  Yes, who would have expected this good man who brought so much healing, wisdom about living, love and forgiveness would be betrayed?  Yet, that was his mission, the reason why he was born, and he was attempting to prepare his loyal friends for this fatal turn of events. They were afraid to delve deeper, probably harboring some degree of denial
We don't know our future, and if we did, we'd probably react the same way. We do know, that as disciples of Jesus, we have a mission and are called to participate in his suffering, rejection, and death to some extent, even to a martyr's death. May we beware of fear and denial, but, like Jesus embrace our own "emptying" or "handing over"  with and for love as he did.
Bro. Rene

Service To The Poor

Perhaps no name is more associated with service to the poor than that of St. Vincent de Paul.  Born of a peasant family in Gascony, France in 1580, he aspired to move upward in society to escape the poverty into which he was born.  A very intelligent and gifts  young man,, he entered the seminary and was ordained a priest at the age of 19.  His status now being elevated, he preferred serving the rich and living their life-style as much as he could.  However, in mid-life, upon hearing the confession of a poor peasant, his heart was turned toward serving the poor to whom he devoted the rest of his life, dying at the age of 80.  He gathered other priests with him (later known as the Vincentian Fathers)  to help with his work with the poor and founded orphanages , hospitals and homes for the mentally impaired. At one point, through the urging and help of the Gondi family, he even ministered to the galley slaves whose plight was deplorable. With St. Louise de Marillac, he founded the Sisters of Charity with their distinctive headgear that always seems to appear in movies depicting Sisters of the pre-Vatican II era. His life and work attracted the attention of the wealthy who competed to endow his projects.  Today most parishes have a St. Vincent de Paul Society which continue his work with the poor. May he touch our hearts to open them to share what ever we can to help those in need, remembering that as Marists, that is also one of our characteristics and objectives.
Bro. Rene

Trying To See Jesus

Today's gospel passage focuses on King Herod's curiosity about Jesus, about whom he had heard but never seen. (Lk 9: 7-9).  The popular musical, Jesus Christ Superstar features a ragtime rhythmic recap of Herod's desire to have Jesus perform a miracle, but Jesus remains silent and Herod dismisses him as  fraud.
His curiosity haunts us, however and challenges us.  How much do we want to see Jesus, or to meet him? Catholics believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist and currently Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament has become an effective tool helping Jesus to reach people and draw them to himself.  Our baptism gives us the Divine Life of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit within our souls..Thus Jesus can be found in the heart and face of the baptized.  We don't have to go far to see him, nor do we have to sing and dance in ragtime.  It's much simpler than that, if we see with the eyes of faith.
Bro .Rene

Strength For The Mission

When Jesus sent the Twelve on their mission, he "gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick," (Lk 9: 1) he also told them to take nothing for the journey, leaving lodging and meals up to the people who welcomed them. These were just ordinary men, entrusted with an extraordinary task with no tools to accomplish it or to sustain them.  What in the world was Jesus thinking, asking of these men?  To put their entire trust in God who would provide for them through others and in ways they could not anticipate.  Some religious orders send their young candidate on similar "adventures" for weeks, even months at a time...and they learn that God provides for them in ways they never expected.  It's a lesson in faith and trust that can't be learned from books, but must be experienced.  We too have been entrusted with a similar mission and can carry it out even in our families, jobs and parishes,  if we, like the Twelve, put our trust in God and venture forth with the strength he provides and not with the tools we think will help." Trust in God and he will act" (Ps 37:5).  That's how it works.
Bro. Rene

Acting on God''s Word

When Jesus was told that his mother and family wanted to see him, he replied, "My  mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it." (Lk 8:21)  Both hearing and acting require effort.  To listen with attentiveness, taking in the Word, digesting it, siting with it until it rumbles through our entire being, is not done when we are half distracted with other things.  Look back at any Mass, Worship or Bible Service we've attended.  How many side-bar thoughts ran through our minds at any given moment? If someone asked what the readings were, what was said in the homily or sermon, we wouldn't score very high, would we?  And, most likely, we'd score even lower on the scale of how we acted on what we heard.  Thank God for his infinite patience with us!
We're never down and out permanently, so we keep trying and once in awhile some things do  click.  Practicing attentiveness throughout the day will help us pay better attention to the Word, when we hear it; and hearing it this way will help us more readily act on it.
Bro. Rene

"Pray, Hope And Don't Worry"

"Pray, Hope and Don't Worry", the message St. Pius of Pietelcina, better known as St. Padre Pio, whom we honor today,  left us, which is perennially applicable in our world of stress, busyness and over-extension.  Padre Pio, God's humble Franciscan priest, was famous for the gift of the stigmata for most of his life.  It began invisibly in 1910 and lasted  until the time of his death on September 23, 1968.  His reputation as a "miraculous" confessor, who could read souls, and for his humility ( he was forbidden to say Mass publicly for awhile), spread world-wide, but little attention was given to a major charitable work, a hospital, which he founded as the result of a gift from an anonymous benefactor.  St. John Paul II emphasize Padre Pio's charitable work, more than his stigmata at his canonization in 2002.  The lesson for us, most of whom will not be blessed with the stigmata, is that we need to live his pray, hope and don't worry message and that we all can do charitable work, big or small, no matter who or where we are.
Bro. Rene

God Or Mammon

We hear Jesus state very directly, "No servant can serve two masters." his loyalty will be split between service to one or disconnect from the other.  "You cannot serve both God and mammon." (Lk 16: 13).  Mammon is not only material wealth, but prestige, obsession with self and perfection, or exaggerated ambition. Real success comes with putting God at the center, using our gifts prudently, and being at the service of others. We can sometimes fool ourselves with a false self-righteousness, another aspect of "mammon."  May we, from time to time, sort through our "inventory" to see where the majority of our marbles, are, with God or mammon, and make the necessary adjustments.
Bro. Rene