Scripture:
2 Maccabees 7:1, 20-31
Luke 19:11-28
Reflection:
Lord, I thank you for these days of faux Summer, the warmth of which is made more glorious because we have already felt winter’s intentions of icy temps and biting winds. We can more appreciatively give You thanks for Your gift of these last few golden days before the coming gray and cold.
Your Gospel tells the familiar parable of three servants entrusted with their master’s wealth. You have entrusted me with Your wealth: my children, my grandsons, my parish, my community, my country. How will I account of my actions upon your return?
These mature years of my life are a gift that not all your servants receive ~ a few more golden moments before the coming gray and cold. Have I used them wisely to bring my charges closer to you with instruction, with modeling a good life, with providing opportunity to know and serve you? And how quickly would those souls, who have passed on younger than I, eagerly accept the aches and pains I whine about, in exchange for the chance to serve You more faithfully?
This is the month for remembrance, for giving thanks, and for being aware of the little time left to make amends, right the paths to You, and truly enjoy the extended years you have granted. Please bless and bring into your Kingdom all our Passionist brothers and sisters who have gone before us this year. Bless President John F Kennedy, assassinated 60 years ago today, and my mother, Shirley, who died 30 years ago today. Bless all my Passionist family with a Happy and truly grateful Thanksgiving.
Ray Alonzo is the father of three children, grandfather of two, and husband to Jan for over 45 years. He is a USN Vietnam Veteran and a 1969 graduate of Mother of Good Counsel Passionist Prep Seminary. Ray currently serves on the Passionist Alumni Council.