Daily Scripture

Scripture:

2 Corinthians 5:14-21
Matthew 5:33-37

Reflection:

The Mission of Reconciliation

Today’s reading from Saint Paul reminds us that God reconciled us to himself through Christ. This means our past sins are no longer held against us. We’re not only offered a fresh start with God, but we’re also given a vital mission: to be ministers and ambassadors of reconciliation to others.

The Challenges of Reconciliation

Achieving reconciliation in our world can be incredibly difficult. Sometimes, we’re lucky, and reconciliation helps mend friendships or family relationships, allowing for a clean slate. However, we often forgive but struggle to forget past hurts. Or, even if we offer forgiveness and are willing to move on, the other person may not reciprocate. True, full reconciliation is a tough road.

Delivering the Message

So, what does this “message of reconciliation” look like in practice?

• Offer forgiveness, even if it’s not reciprocated. You can choose to forgive someone, even if they don’t forgive you in return.
• Sometimes, reconciliation means distance. Two people might forgive each other, but decide it’s best for their reconciliation to keep their distance. For instance, after a major conflict, siblings might forgive each other but agree to limit their interactions to avoid future arguments.
• Even when forgiveness seems impossible, don’t give up entirely. Think about a long-standing family feud. While full reconciliation might not happen overnight, small steps, like acknowledging the other person’s perspective, can be a form of peacemaking.

Embracing Peacemaking

Perhaps the answer lies in one of the Beatitudes: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” Jesus calls us to be God’s ministers and ambassadors for peace whenever we have the opportunity. And what sounds more like persistent peacemaking than patiently working towards reconciliation? God has reconciled with every single one of us forever. Can we try a little harder to add a few more people to our own reconciliation list?

Jack Dermody is President of Share Our Gifts, Inc., a Passionist alumni organization dedicated to assisting those who live in poverty; he is also editor of CrossRoads, the Passionist Alumni Association’s newsletter.

Scripture:

2 Corinthians 4:7-15
Matthew 5:27-32

Reflection:

While reading through today’s scriptures, I kept coming back to the first line in St. Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians, “We hold this treasure in earthen vessels. . .” (v.7).

In his Gospel, Matthew uses this word to share Jesus’ sayings. For example, “For where your treasure is, there also will be your heart” (6:21). Additionally, he writes “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys the field” (13:44).  There is no mention that he ever digs it up again. We might say that this field is essentially the container of a vital and rich treasure.

Jewish people understood the Torah—the book of the Law, as a container for the treasure of God’s revealed will for them, essentially serving as a blueprint for life. Jesus stated earlier that he hadn’t come to abolish the Law but rather its fulfillment (5:17). In today’s text, Jesus offers a fuller interpretation of the Torah. Some translations label these sayings as the “antitheses,” conveying the meaning of contrasts or opposites. This is not the case for these verses, as Jesus invites a deeper inward interpretation of the scripture. Going to the “root” of the commandment, lust is the origin of the act of adultery.  Therefore, before you have the outward action of adultery, it begins with an inner awareness of lust. This example of inner awareness is step one and can be used in all situations relating to our moral decision-making. We root out or cut off anything that causes separation in any way from God—our true treasure. However, following God’s design for our lives can be very challenging with interpreting scripture, differing viewpoints, etc. There can often be a clash of wills—mine, others and God’s as we live out our complex reality.

St. Paul takes up this concept with the Corinthian community. They were unhappy that he had broken his word to them by not returning as promised. In the meantime, “others” came and discredited his teachings. In this section of the letter, Paul defends his preaching ministry. The treasure is Christ and him crucified. We live to embrace his cross in our lives. However, this is not a burden that brings us to ruin, rather it brings us closer to Jesus—so close that we unite ourselves with his suffering. We carry his very life within us.

When our granddaughter Alice was about four years old, she would ask if I had any treasures. She had a habit of finding small items of any description and putting them in bags, purses, or boxes. When asked exactly what she meant by treasures, she replied that a treasure was anything she had not yet seen.  Her description of a treasure in this context rings true for us. This treasure we hold in earthen vessels, hidden in the field. . . (or in a purse in the playroom). . reflects Paul’s words in his first letter to the Corinthians, “Eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and what has not entered the human heart, what God has prepared for those who love him” (2:9). May we always hold fast to this hidden true treasure in our hearts. Amen.

Jean Bowler is a retreatant at Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center in Sierra Madre, California, and a member of the Office of Mission Effectiveness Board of Holy Cross Province.

Scripture:

2 Corinthians 3:15-4:1, 3-6
Matthew 5:20-26

Reflection:

In the context of the commandments, Jesus challenges us today to move beyond the literal interpretation of each commandment and to adapt his loving attitude for each other.  He tells us to forgive those who have offended us or irritated us in any way. 

I am reminded of the times throughout the day, even when at Mass or in prayer, how frequently my mind wanders away to think about the people who have disagreed with me or hurt me in some way.  I include in that list the people that I myself have judged for any aspect of their behavior or lifestyle that I do not agree with.  How do I move beyond my feelings to forgive and reengage with each and every one of them?  Unfortunately, the list is more than just a handful of family, friends and acquaintances.  As I return to refocus on my prayer, I realize that the fundamental problem is not one that they have created, no matter what their transgression, if any, has been.  The problem is with my own attitude and feelings.  In the context of St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians it is at these very times that a veil exists between myself and my Lord. 

The “new commandment” that Jesus engages us in today is not an easy one to follow.  It requires a “new attitude” toward everyone in my life.  It requires more prayer, quiet reflection, and ultimately forgiveness and reconciliation.  It requires me to lift the “veil” that separates me from what he has asked me to do.  It also requires patience with myself to be able to diligently but effectively seek such forgiveness from within my heart and then to turn to those who I am estranged from to try to reconcile with each of them as much as possible. 

It is clear from his own life what Jesus expects of us.  He has challenged us to love one another as he has loved us.  This is a lifelong and obviously not an easy challenge.  I am reconciled to the fact that I will never truly be able to love everyone around me in the exact way that Jesus did.  But I am okay with that so long as I do not let go of my determination to try to do so.  My continuing challenge is to be continually mindful of the people in my life who need my forgiveness, even if they aren’t aware of it.     

May the Passion of Jesus Christ be always in our hearts.

Bill Berger has had a lifelong relationship with the Passionist Family.  Bill and his wife, Linda, are currently leaders of the Community of Passionist Partners (CPPs) in Houston, Texas.

Memorial of St. Barnabas, Apostle

Scripture:

Acts 11:21b-26, 13:1-3
Matthew 5:17-19

Reflection:

When I think of Barnabas, I remember the encourager.  The Jerusalem Church needed someone to send to Antioch, where many Gentiles were coming to Christ.  They dispatched Barnabas, “a good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and faith.”  Barnabas arrived in Antioch and immediately “encouraged them to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.”

When I think of Barnabas, I remember the friend.  Many in the church feared Paul, the former Christian hunter and tormenter.  They shunned him.  Not Barnabas.  He befriended Paul and even invited him to join Barnabas in his Antioch mission.

When I think of Barnabas, I remember the compassionate man.  I was as fearful as Mark. Doubtful of my calling to the diaconate, I thought of abandoning my journey.  And I was as disparaging as Paul.  I saw only my failures.  But a holy deacon, Ernie Nosari, like Barnabas, saw my potential.  He believed in me, mentored me.  With patience and compassion, he helped to prepare me for an exhilarating diaconate adventure.

Remember us, Barnabas.  Take us to Antioch with you.  Teach us how to encourage those who want to know the Lord.  Introduce us to Paul, to those who feel shunned and lonely.  Take us on your next voyage with Mark.  Show us how to be compassionate to those who are discouraged.  Show us how to reveal, not the failures, but the potential in others.  And especially today, your feast day, Barnabas, show us how to be encourager, friend and compassionate.  Show us how to be “good, and filled with the Holy Spirit and faith.”

Deacon Manuel Valencia is on the staff at Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center, Sierra Madre, California.

Scripture:

2 Corinthians 1:18-22
Matthew 5:13-16

Reflection:

There is palpable excitement about Pope Leo XIV. And palpable shock that he is from the U.S. Although some seem to think it’s a tribute to this country that “one of us” now leads the Church, I believe the Pope himself would reject that. He loves the U.S, yes, but he loves the Gospel more. He loves those he served as a missionary, even becoming a naturalized citizen of their country. He loves the poor he served – those for whom he carried heavy rice sacks on his back and delivered them on foot, whose flooded streets he tromped, and for whom he constantly embodied the compassion of Christ. Self-congratulations or lauding his roots are far from his heart and focus.

Instead, he focuses on challenging us to deepen our discipleship, perhaps suggesting that too many Catholics have lost their salt or hidden their light under a bushel basket. We get too comfortable in our faith, relying on the fact that we follow the rules (and showing disdain for those who don’t), as if that defines a “good Catholic.”

Pope Leo says our calling is far deeper and broader than simply obeying rules. The very way we live our lives must reflect the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He says we, individually and as a Church, must “make ourselves small” and do as Jesus did – lift up the downtrodden, freely give what we have, care for the poor, bring in the outcast, tend the sick, and share the joy of faith in a living God who created each of us. He strongly warns that falling into desires for power, exclusivity, dominance, wealth, and other lures of the world only serve to distort the Gospel and what Christianity truly is.

As I listen to his words, I know there are many things in America and in my personal life that fall short. Are we, and am I, serving the ones that Jesus would have us serve? Are we, and am I, making myself small so God’s mercy and grace can shine more clearly? How have we, and I, turned a blind eye to those in need, stopped being salty, hidden the light from those in darkness, and perpetuated our own agendas to the detriment of others? In what ways are we, and I, held in the spell of control, money, and exclusion? How often do we, and I, conform to things we don’t believe in, succumbing to powerlessness or fear, rather than taking the risk of standing up for those who will be harmed or left even more desperate as a result? 

This week I pray to more fully follow the Gospel of Jesus Christ rather than to hide that light under a bushel basket of my own making. May we all strive to be disciples in the mold of Pope Leo XIV. And may the Spirit ever guide his path as he leads this Church.

Amy Florian is a teacher and consultant working in Chicago.  For many years she has partnered with the Passionists.  Visit Amy’s website: http://www.corgenius.com/.

Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church

Scripture:

Genesis 3:9-15, 20 or Acts 1:12-14
John 19:25-34

Reflection:

No One Goes to Church to Feel Bad

As we honor Mary, Mother of the Church today, we first see Eve in the Garden. Julien of Norwich says that, “when Adam fell, Jesus fell into the womb of Mary.” The Incarnation is joined to the Paschal Mystery.

The word of Jesus spoken in his suffering to his mother and disciple, John, “Behold”,

invites us to quiet consideration, mysticism. What do we ‘behold’ in this mother, and John the disciple? Mary, chosen by God, a woman without sin, opened her being to God’s will with her “Yes”. On Calvary, she shares the Paschal Mystery of her son. Now her broken heart’s gift is openness to the Father’s will as she abandons herself to God, as does her son. Behold John, a man who has not abandoned his friend’s mother. Jesus knows John’s love and can place his mother in his care.

In the days that follow, we see the fragile, early Church awaiting the gift Jesus told them they would receive. The disciples from Galilee who followed Jesus from the beginning Mary knew as Jesus’ friends. They had worked with him and cared for him. Now they are a group of confused and broken, doubtful and afraid men and women, gathered behind locked doors. During these birth pains, Mary must have been a quiet strength, a coach, as she beholds what God is birthing, the fulfillment of Ezekiel’s prophecy, “You will be my people and I will be your God”.

Pope Francis offered a prayer during Easter week a few years ago. He describes Jesus kneeling before the Father, showing his wounds. At his side stands Mary. The Holy Spirit is present. Jesus says to the Father, “Father, remember how much we love them”. A beautiful prayer for the Church. St. John Chrysostom describes the Church as having a table bowed down with the abundance of God’s love. That table must be the altar. The weight of the Body and Blood on the altar would seem very light; how could it bow down the altar? However, we are what we receive; we are one with Jesus in the sharing of the Eucharist, for we are His body. We can see ourselves symbolically upon the altar, our weight, the weight of the Body of Christ, the Church, that bows down at the table of the Eucharist. In each of the Eucharistic prayers, there is a part called the intercessions. In these intercessions we hear the burdens of one another, the Church, brought through our prayer and laid upon the altar:.…for our beloved dead, the needs of the Church and those who serve, for those we do not love as we should, for healing and conversion, that we may share the joys and sorrows, the hopes and fears of our brother and sisters, for the hope of a world made new…

This is the Church, the Body of Christ, of whom Mary is the Mother. She nourished Jesus, she nourishes us and enables us to nourish our brothers and sisters with the abundance of God’s love that is our food in the Eucharist. None of us go to Church to feel bad…all of us have cried and reached out our arms and run to our mothers for their comfort. Mary as Mother of the Church embraces us and tells us we are chosen. God’s love is ours. Like Jesus’ first friends, we learn to share that gift. May Mary, with her mother’s love for us, help us on our journey and nurture us to share God’s love until our welcome home to the fullness of the banquet table of heaven.

Fr. William Murphy, CP is a member of Immaculate Conception Community in Jamaica, New York.

Pentecost Sunday

Scripture:

Acts 2:1-11
1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13 or Romans 8:8-17
John 20:19-23 or John 14:15-16, 23b-26

Reflection:

Today, the Church celebrates Pentecost Sunday. We mark the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, which begins the proclamation of the Good News of Jesus Christ, and therefore the beginning of the Church.

In the option for the second reading for Year C (Romans 8:8-17), St. Paul writes, “If the Spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, the one who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also, through the Spirit that dwells in you. Consequently, brothers and sisters, we are not debtors to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received a Spirit of adoption, through whom we cry, ‘Abba, Father!’ The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if only we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.”

We did not receive “a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear.” The apostles themselves are a prime example of this. In the Gospel reading which can be used every year (John 20:19-23), John tells us that after the crucifixion, the disciples locked the doors where they were, for fear of what might happen to them. But their fear does not keep Jesus away. And He says, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you…Receive the Holy Spirit…” In our first reading from Acts (2:1-11), we hear Luke’s account of the Holy Spirit. Again, the disciples, along with Mary, are gathered together. First there is “a noise like a strong driving wind,” and then there are “tongues as of fire, which parted and came to rest on each of them.” And the ones, who were once so afraid that they locked themselves into a room, come out and begin to tell the good News, speaking in different languages, so that all those who came to the place because of that noise could understand what they were saying! They were no longer slaves to fear!

In the Spirit, we cannot fall back into fear, or greed, or apathy or hate. If we believe the Spirit’s witness that we are indeed children of God, we must also believe that others are also children of God, even those whom we are convinced are outside of God’s love.

What kind of “noise” are we called to make? At the same time, we are encouraged not to give in to fear, we are not called to try to strike fear into the hearts of others. The world does not need to hear the sounds of more rolling tanks, falling bombs, or gun shots fired in anger. The world does not need to hear the sounds of any more wailing children who have been orphaned, or wailing parents who have lost their children. We are not hear to make sounds of derision and ridicule of those who are different.

No, we are called to make a different kind of noise. We are called to speak in ways that anyone can understand; not only by the words we say, but by the things we do. Are we willing to act with the Spirit of knowing we are God’s children, and so are they? Are we willing to suffer for making the noise that brings others to God’s love in Jesus Christ; the “noise” of justice and peace?

Come, Holy Spirit, renew our hearts, and renew the face of the earth.

Fr. Phil Paxton, C.P., is the local superior of the Passionist Community in Birmingham, Alabama. 

Scripture:

Acts 28:16-20, 30-31
John 21:20-25

Reflection:

There are also many other things that Jesus did,
but if these were to be described individually,
I do not think the whole world would contain the books
that would be written.  -John 21:25

One of the great gifts in my life has been my involvement in a program of the Archdiocese of Chicago in the 1970s and ’80s. On the recommendation of Fr. Joe, I made my first TEC (Teens Encounter Christ) retreat weekend in 1969, where I met Penny and a whole host of others who, over the years, have become lifelong companions. Many of my Facebook contacts today are people who I met on one TEC or another. I was not a teen. I was twenty-four years old and would attend as an adult representative of the Church in Chicago.

You see, TEC retreats gathered high school seniors and adult members of the larger Chicago Church community for three days of prayer and sharing. The weekend followed the Pascal Mystery with a period of recalling Jesus’ death, life in the tomb and rising on Sunday. The adult team members would meet a couple of times beforehand, forming a community and divvying up personal witness talks of their dying, their time in the tomb and their rising.

At the first preparation meeting I attended, I introduced myself as: “Dan’s the name, paper’s the game, and the score is kept in dollars and cents.” One of those attending that meeting, Penny, thought that was an odd way of introducing myself. What did she know?

Well, it turns out, she knew quite a bit about the Christian Community. She knew first and foremost that being a follower of Jesus is not a game, nor is it about any one of us, but it is the life of all of us living in one spirit of loving, caring and sharing. There is no score keeping, winners, or losers. If we are not all winners, we are all losers.

Today, because of Penny and the many, many people I’ve met on TEC like her, I believe the Spirit is already with us when we listen to each other and come to an agreed-upon course of action, what we are calling today the synodal method. Pope Francis and it looks like now Pope Leo are encouraging us in this synodal way, listening to all, but especially to the marginalized, the poor, the hungry, the imprisoned.

God help me to recognize you as I continue one day at a time, encountering you in your people and their gifts, especially the gifts of the poor, the outcast, the lonely, the marginalized and the downtrodden. Jesus, help me come to the table, sharing all my God-given gifts, even to dying as you did.

Dan O’Donnell is a Passionist Partner and a longtime friend of the Passionists.  He lives in Chicago.