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Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time, and always
start with the person nearest you.
-Mother Teresa
( Including yourself! )
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ACTS 11:19-26; PS
87:1-7; JN 10:22-30
R. All you nations, praise the Lord.
His foundation upon the holy mountains
the LORD loves:
The gates of Zion,
more than any dwelling of Jacob.
Glorious things are said of you,
O city of God!
I tell of Egypt and Babylon
among those who know the LORD;
Of Philistia, Tyre, Ethiopia:
"This man was born there."
And of Zion they shall say:
"One and all were born in her;
And he who has established
her
is the Most High LORD."
They shall note, when the peoples are enrolled:
"This man was born there."
And all shall sing, in their festive dance:
"My home is within you."
USCCB Lectionary
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Reflection on the Scriptures |
Today's scripture readings are an interesting mix. They speak of forgiveness, discernment and inclusiveness. Seemingly contrasting ideas. In Acts, Stephen has been martyred and the Christians scattered. Yet they continue to preach the Good News. To both Greek and Jew. The psalmist proclaims that not only those from Zion know God, but people of Egypt, Babylon, Philistia, Tyre and
Ethiopia as well. In John, Jesus walks in the temple area and is cornered by those who want to know if he really is the Christ. Jesus states that "My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me." Then He makes the proclamation, "The Father and I are one."
The readings were very convicting for me. I want to be discerning, but not judging. And I feel I've been
way too judgmental recently. It's like I want a distinct line between us and them. And I want to be able to pass judgment on them. Jews and Greeks. A distinct line between the two. Yet both receive the Good News.
- by Daniel Patrick O'Reilly
Creighton Online Ministries
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Selected Quotes from St. John of the Cross on the Journey of the Soul to God by Contemplation - from Living Flame of
Love
Second Redaction
Stanza III. #82. Three kinds of love: 1. the soul now loves God, not
through itself but through Himself. 2. the soul is absorbed in the love of God and God surrenders Himself to the soul with great vehemence. 3. the soul loves Him for Who He is.
- compiled by James and Tyra Arraj Paperback edition: Kindle edition available
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