Reflection for Feb. 3, 2013
posted on: Tuesday, January 29, 2013 by: renaebauer
Faithfulness to God requires sacrifices
by Sister Laura Zelten
From the perspective of Catholic Social Teaching, three themes
emerge from this Sunday's readings.
- You may be rejected by those to whom you are
closest when you stand up for what you believe. The Word of God
challenges the way we look at everything. It may invite us to
challenge the values of our culture. It may call us to act for
justice. Not everyone will like what we say and do. This was the
experience of Jeremiah and of Jesus. It may be our experience as we
try to live the Gospel.
- The call of Jesus involves more than acts of charity or
gift giving, but also the transformation of relationships
and the works of justice. The great hymn to love in Corinthians
("Love is patient, love is kind") must not be read only from the
point of view of a nice sentiment, but as a challenge to transcend
self and to confront the broader issues of justice and peace. We
are invited to read the characteristics of love from the point of
view of social interaction and justice in social structures.
- God is in charge and will protect and bless
the ones who are faithful to the message. As the first reading from
Jeremiah concludes: "They will fight against you but not prevail
over you, for I am with you to deliver you, says the LORD." So,
don't be afraid of the challenge of God's message. You'll be OK. In
Luke's Gospel, Jesus simply and courageously walks away from the
crowd and continues his ministry.
Reflection questions:
- When has your love been reflected in gift giving to someone in
need?
- When has your love moved you to challenge the structures of
society or your own way of thinking?
Celebrating the
'Year of Faith'
The Creed: Receive the Holy Spirit
chapter 9
, US Catholic Catechism for
Adults
by Sister Mary Kabat
We received the Holy Spirit, the third Person of the Trinity, at
our Baptism and Confirmation. Sealed with the Holy Spirit we
are strengthened, inspired and encouraged each day to pursue the
mission of Christ and proclaim the love of Christ to all
people.
The Holy Spirit at Pentecost transformed the fearful Apostles
into courageous missionaries. That same Holy Spirit
transforms us into dwelling places and missionaries for Christ, and
the Spirit can change those to whom we bring the message and love
of Christ.
Come, Holy Spirit, fill
the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of you
love.