Wednesday, December 1, 2021

 Wednesday of the First Week of Advent

(Isaiah 25:6-10a; Matthew 15:29-37)

People speak of “death with dignity.”  But death always compromises human dignity.  It refuses to recognize the person’s desire not only to live but to thrive.  Of course, what people mean by the term is something less than full dignity.  They mean a death without the depersonalization of medical technology.  Likewise, they have in mind a death without intense, long-term suffering.  They also want to see the person controlling some of the circumstances about her demise.  Full dignity, however, goes beyond these considerations.  It is a quality of soul engendered by virtuous living.  In death dignity is reflected especially in courage that expresses gratitude for life.  Dignity also pursues reconciliation with God and with others to leave the world a more peaceful place.

In the first reading the prophet Isaiah promises a heavenly banquet for those who die with full dignity.  On that occasion the tears that they may have shed bearing pain or seeking peace will be graciously wiped away.  Also, the God to whom they entrusted themselves will come as their savior.  The gospel passage foreshadows that banquet. Showing himself the fulfillment of the deepest human desires, Jesus provides the repast.

During Advent we look for Jesus to come and console us in our efforts to live virtuously.  We yearn for him to escort us to the table of plenty which our Eucharist foreshadows.  Finally, we hear him tell us the best way to prepare for his arrival is the same virtuous lifestyle.

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

 Feast of Saint Andrew, apostle

(Romans 10:9-18; Matthew 4:18-22)

Once it was said that the Feast of St. Andrew was the beginning of Advent.  Of course, that is not true.  But the beginning of Advent always falls on the Sunday closest to the Feast of St. Andrew.  The two events have more in common than this, however.

Advent announces the coming of Christ to judge the world.  Andrew, like the other apostles, preached this message.  Now, almost 2000 years have passed since this message was first proclaimed.  Still Christ has not come.  Is it rational to continue expecting him?

Yes, we can answer, for several reasons.  First, Andrew testified to the risen Christ whom he evidently saw.  Indeed, he was martyred for his testimony.  Second, saints through the ages – including some of history’s wisest people – gave the same testimony.  Their faith was more than the youthful enthusiasm.  It was insight verified by experience.  Finally, the inherent logic of the faith that has been handed down begs adherence.  Meditation confirms that Catholic doctrine conforms well with the deepest human intuitions. Other reasons can be added. Nevertheless, we cannot escape the truth that acceptance of Christ’s return depends on faith.

Monday, November 29, 2021

 Monday of the First Week of Advent

(Isaiah 4:2-6; Matthew 8:5-11)

Advent mostly celebrates the end of time.  It looks forward to the coming of Jesus to judge the world. There likely will be wailing by those deemed as evil.  But these are not necessarily foreign peoples. Today’s first reading envisions all kinds of people climbing the Lord’s mountain for instruction.  Of course, Isaiah saw the pilgrims as learning the Mosaic law.  Christians see it differently.  They say that people come to the holy city to learn about Jesus Christ.

The two resemble one another.  In a sermon on another mountain Jesus said that he fulfilled the law.  In the process he focuses on love.  However, he does not smother action with sentiment.  Rather, he warns about showing off to win people’s praise.  In today’s gospel Jesus commends the centurion for not seeking what might be called a photo op.  The centurion comes to Jesus to ask healing for his servant.  He does not care to be seen welcoming the popular Jesus into his home.

Hopefully we are as circumspect as the centurion. Like him we should seek only what is good for others.  Like him, as well, we should avoid being seen doing good so others might praise us.  If are motives are so pure, we will not be judged harshly by Jesus when he comes.

Sunday, November 28, 2021

First Sunday of Advent

(Jeremiah 33:14-16; Thessalonians 3:12-4: 2; Luke 21:25-28.34-36)

New Englanders have a beautiful Advent tradition. During this season they put a candle in every window of their house. The Irish are said to have brought this custom to America. Once the English rulers banned the Mass in Ireland. Then the Catholics would put a candle in the window as a signal to wandering priests.  They could enter to secretly celebrate Christmas mass. For this reason, a lighted candle in the window has become a sign of hope. It signifies that the people of the house are waiting for the return of a loved one.

When we speak of hope, we must keep two issues in mind. First, what is hoped for? Second, in whom does one put hope? We only hope for things that we do not have. A year ago, many of us hoped for the vaccine. In Cuba now many people wait for the freedom which they feel is near.

In the case of the vaccine, we put our hope in the scientists together with God. We prayed that the Holy Spirit would inspire scientists to invent an effective vaccine. As the season of Advent begins, we hope for something almost unimaginable. We hope to be rescued from sin and death. We put this hope in Jesus who promises us in the gospel that he will return to save us

Today’s gospel today uses a different word to signify Jesus’ return. It says that we are waiting for "redemption." We wait for Jesus to return to rescue us from the bondage of sin and death.  People who have suffered to keep the faith feel the need of redemption. They are the Jews in the time of Jeremiah the prophet, author of the first reading. Exiled to Babylon, they hoped that David's “shoot" would conquer their captors. We recognize Jesus Christ by this title. There are Christians today who, lacking freedom, wait for the "scion of David." In China and Pakistan many Christians live with ridicule and criticism if not threats and attacks. Also, there are the divorced who do not remarry so that they might receive Communion. They too wait for Jesus to redeem them from loneliness.

And how is it that we wait for redemption? Is it just because some roll their eyes when we say grace before eating? No, our need for redemption runs deeper than this. When we get old, we too feel lonely and want to meet dear departed ones. Even young people often live with unbearable conditions from which that they want redemption. For example, the rate of depression and suicide among teens is growing. All of us who make efforts to live with a clean heart hope for redemption. We want to be delivered from the lying and cheating that surrounds us.

The hope for redemption does not eliminate the need to work for a better world. Rather, in preparation for Christ we should redouble our efforts. For this reason, Saint Paul in the second reading urges that we overflow with love for everyone. We do it at home with close attention to our children. We do it at work by giving a day's work for a day's pay. We should also try to assist fellow workers who are lost to find their way to the Lord. We do it in the community with different kinds of support. Perhaps we help in the food pantry for the poor or take an elderly person out shopping.

Of the three theological virtues, hope seems the least appreciated. Faith is basic, the foundation of spiritual life. Saint Paul says that love is the greatest. Who wants to dispute with him? But let us not count hope for nothing. In times it soars like a bird. It sings to us for our redemption. It indicates, as the gospel testifies, that God will provide for us.

Friday, November 26, 2021

 Friday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

(Daniel 7:2-14; Luke 21:29-33)

The Old Testament forbids drawing images of God.  Nevertheless, people have continued to do it.  Theologians have defended the practice, and the Church has approved it.  Images of God often take on the features of the Ancient One in today’s first reading.  He looks old but not worn.  His white hair bespeaks wisdom, not senility.

The reading also describes a personage named as the “Son of Man.”  Jesus identifies himself with this term.  We Christians, therefore, believe that it is he.  He has conquered the enemies of the people.  The Ancient One justly presents him with kingship of the whole world.

We have approached the end of another liturgical year.  We have celebrated once again in detail Jesus’ victory over sin and death.  He has led us from subjection to evil to freedom as children of God.  We can continue to give thanks to the Father for him.

Thursday, November 25, 2021

 Thanksgiving Day

(Sirach 50:22-24; I Corinthians 1:3-9; Luke 17:11-19)

Thanksgiving is America’s favorite holiday, hands down.  Forget about the Fourth of July.  Forget about even Christmas.  On Thanksgiving Americans travel distances to be with their family.  Most everyone eats turkey.  Many watch football on television. Increasingly popular is a communal morning run.

One thing Americans are having trouble doing in recent years on Thanksgiving is giving thanks to God.  Skepticism has taken root in many places.  People are having have difficulty recognizing a Supreme Benefactor.  They become a little like Bart Simpson in his mealtime prayer, “Thank you for nothing.  We paid for all this food ourselves.”  Most foreigners do not have this problem.  At a Thanksgiving meal they will not only thank God but also name the gifts they are thankful for.  They are much like the Samaritan leper in today’s gospel.

This leper is a foreigner also.  Only the desperation of his disease allowed him to share company with the Jewish lepers.  This condition, however, is not necessary to stand before Jesus.  He welcomes everyone. It’s the Samaritan’s return to Jesus that truly distinguishes him from the others.  He wants to express gratitude to God before the instrument of God’s healing.  For this reason Jesus declares him saved.  The others may obey the law but are not given access to eternal life.  Americans may enjoy a lot of blessings.  But they likewise are not saved unless they give gratitude to God.

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

 Memorial of Saint Andrew Dung-Lac and companions, martyrs

(Daniel 5:1-6.13-14.16-17.23-28; Luke 19:12-19)

As in many places, Catholics in Vietnam have prospered.  Only 7 percent of the population, Catholics have held the position of president of South Vietnam when the country was divided.  No doubt, some of the Church’s influence was an outcome of Catholic schools.  But Catholics have also suffered for their faith.

Today’s patron saint, Andrew Dung-Lac was a Vietnamese priest-martyr of the nineteenth century. He was killed with one hundred sixteen others between 1820 and 1862.  It is said that between 100,000 and 300,000 Vietnamese Catholics were either killed or suffered extreme hardship in the nineteenth alone.  Christ predicts such suffering for his followers in today’s gospel.

How does one square Jesus’ statement that some disciples will be put to death and another that not a hair on a disciple’s head will be destroyed?  One commentator thinks that the second statement is misplaced.  More provocative, however, is Jesus’ command that Christians not prepare in advance a defense for themselves in front of their accusers.  What he seems to want is our trust in him rather than in our own logic or cleverness. 

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

 

Tuesday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

 (Daniel 2:31-45; Luke 21:5-11)

 The United States, as powerful a nation as it is, cannot control the course of history.  It could not even keep a democratically elected government ruling in Afghanistan. With both Chinese and Russian expansionism as well as an independent European Union, the United States must reassess its purposes.  The prophet Daniel perceives work of this order for Babylon in today’s first reading.

 The Book of the Prophet Daniel is more historical novel than Israelite prophecy.  Nevertheless, there is real truth in its message.  In today’s reading the book’s protagonist warns the king of Babylonia that his rule is soon to come to an end.  However, the author (whoever he may be) has all the rulers of the earth in mind.  His message is that they should not strive to conquer more lands but to establish justice where they rule.  Such statesmanship is necessary because in the end God will judge the nations.  In the author’s prophetic imagination, God’s kingdom is the stone that becomes a mountain filling the whole earth.

 Americans have cause to be grateful for the blessings heaped upon their country.  In its best days the United States has responded graciously by contributing to a better world.  Certainly standing up to the tyranny in the Soviet Union benefited all humanity.  But Americans should not think that their country’s every initiative is just.  Its leaders have spawned injustice in certain times and places for which they are subject to God’s judgment.

Monday, November 22, 2021

 Memorial of Saint Cecilia, virgin and martyr

(Daniel 1:1-6.8-20; Luke 24:42a.44)

Although St. Cecilia is among the most popular saints, little is known about her with certainty.  She is associated with Church music which explains her popularity.  It is said that at her wedding she did not hear the nuptial music but sat apart singing praise to God in her heart.  Also, it is reported that she remained a virgin after marriage!

Cecilia may be compared to the poor widow of today’s gospel in different ways.  Of course, nothing is said, much less known with certainty, about her background.  Yet she is famous as well for the mite she put into the Temple treasury.  It was a sacrifice of note because it was all that she had to live on.

Both Cecilia and the widow are recognized widely because they symbolize Christ.  He too was a virgin who constantly praised God.  More importantly, he gave not just his means but his life to the treasury of God’s love.  By his sacrifice our sins are forgiven.  By it, as well, we have a destiny of singing eternal praise to God with Cecilia and the widow.

Sunday, November 21, 2021

 

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

(Daniel 7: 13-14; Revelation 1: 5-8; John 18: 33-37)

A tale about the French monarch Louis XIV shows a characteristic of earthly kings. One day two peasants found the king hunting in the field near their lands. One commented to the other that the king was not wearing gloves. The second replied that kings don't need gloves. He explained, “They always have their hands in people's pockets.” In the gospel Jesus testifies that he is not this kind of king. In fact, he says that his kingdom is not of this world.

This phrase does not mean that there are no features of Jesus’ kingdom here. It simply says that the righteousness of the kingdom of Jesus has not yet permeated the earth. The lack of the kingdom of Jesus is seen not only in the increasing number of homicides but also in the lies and disgusting comments found on the Internet. People often criticize each other there not with the intention of correcting but of destroying.

However, the peace of Jesus’ kingdom is found in the hearts of the righteous. A lovely priest shares freely brochures that he bought of the dialogue between Our Lady of Guadalupe and the indigenous Juan Diego. He intends to sow peace on earth by reminding everyone of God's mercy in sending our Lady.  We also hope that the spirit of Jesus’ kingdom has penetrated the walls of our homes. In one parish the priest claims that he has convinced a dozen families to pray the rosary together daily. It is certainly not just by saying the Lord's Prayer and Hail Mary that we find peace. But let us never doubt that such a practice continued for months and years brings countless blessings.

Jesus adds that he has come to "be a witness to the truth." He has in mind the truth of his kingdom. Yes, he says, there exists his realm of love despite the human experience of struggle and resentment. Jesus has come from on high to inform those of the truth that their hope for peace is not in vain. He said earlier in this Gospel of John that all of the truth hear his voice. Unfortunately, Pilate does not listen to him because he is not of the truth.

Hopefully, it is not so with us. May we be people of the truth believing in Jesus Christ and the destiny of life in its fullness that he has won for his followers. We show ourselves as people of truth by preparing this world for the coming of Jesus Christ. In a week we will be entering the Advent season. Among other objectives the purpose of Advent time is to prepare us for Christmas. People of the truth do so by much more than hurrying about buying gifts.  They regularly calm down to meditate on the mystery that will be celebrated. They also think about how they can support the less fortunate as Jesus has supported us with his coming.

In this world of struggle and resentment, some will say that we believers are not of the truth. They will raise the criticism that we believe in a myth. Debating with them would be as futile as banning the sale of turkey during Thanksgiving and Christmas. However, we can always show them that we are of the truth. We do this by praying together at home and at Mass. We also do it by telling the truth even when doing so costs us dearly. Finally, we show that we are people of truth by supporting the unfortunate. We want them also to have the hope of eternal life.

Friday, November 19, 2021

 Friday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time

(I Maccabees 4:36-37.52-59; Luke 19:45-48)

In all estimation the Jerusalem Temple, when it stood, was the center of Israel’s life.  It was twice constructed.  Solomon built a lovely structure in the tenth century B.C.  This building was destroyed by the Babylonians toward the beginning of the sixth century.  When the Israelis returned from captivity in Babylon fifty years later, they rebuilt the Temple.  This second structure was expanded by King Herod before Christ was born.  It stood less than a century more. The Romans, putting down a Jewish rebellion, almost obliterated it.  What is left, the west or “wailing wall,” remains a place of pilgrimage for Jews.

Both readings today focus on the holiness of the Temple.  In the first, the Maccabean brothers celebrate its rededication after being purified of desecration by Greeks and Jewish apostates.  Jesus symbolically does the same as he drives out merchants.  The Temple was holy because it contained the divine presence from the Scriptures stored in its inner chambers.

Christians do not have a single structure with the significance of the Jerusalem Temple.  The sacrifice of Christ to atone for the sins of all is re-presented in all churches which retain the apostolic succession.  Equally true, we see every baptized person as a kind of Temple.  At Baptism the person receives in his or her soul the Holy Spirit, who is God.  It is our sacred duty to keep the Temple of our soul pure and holy.

 

Thursday, November 18, 2021

Thursday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time

 (I Maccabees 2:15-29; Luke 19:41-44)

 Political cartoonist Bill Maudlin was able to capture the people’s imagination throughout the middle of the last century. His characterization of foot-soldiers Willie and Joe during World War II etched a trail of admiration in the American mind for the G.I.  However, a single cartoon drawn almost twenty years after the war ended had even greater impact.  After President Kennedy was assassinated, Mauldin drew a cartoon of the Lincoln Memorial.  But, instead of a straight back Lincoln stolidly looking forward, Mauldin drew the sixteenth president bent over crying in his hands.  It was the way the whole nation felt.  Lincoln’s tears are reminiscent of Jesus’ in today’s gospel.

 Jesus cries over Jerusalem for not heeding his call to repentance.  Jerusalem, David’s capital, is symbolic of the whole world.  Most people follow their egotistic designs rather than Jesus’ example of humility and commandment of love.  Wars never seem to end because egotism turns violent when a nation does not get what it wants.

We must learn to curb our egos – both individual and national.  It is certain that with nuclear weapons the world cannot sustain another total war.  If World War II was not the last total war, then World War III definitely will be. 

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

 Memorial of St. Elizabeth of Hungary

(II Maccabees 7.1.20-21; Luke 19:11-28)

As children, we were given chores to do each day.  Too often, we waited until the moments before mother came home to do them.  Unsurprisingly, often enough the chores were either half done or undone.  Mother, of course, was not pleased when she entered the house.  Jesus makes a similar point in today’s gospel.

The context of the parable points to its meaning.  People were expecting the establishment of Christ’s kingdom upon his arrival in Jerusalem.  Jesus intends to show them not only that there will be a delay but also that he will leave them awhile before returning in glory.  In the meantime, his followers must work to build up the populace.  Two disciples perform admirable service and are richly rewarded.  One, however, shirks his duty and is duly punished.

Today’s patron, St. Elizabeth of Hungary, heeded the parable.  Although a queen, she did not luxuriate in but shared her fortune with the poor.  She gave testimony for all to emulate of how to preach the gospel with our lives.

Tuesday, November 16, 2021

 

Tuesday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time

(II Maccabees 6:18-31; Luke 19:1-10)

In Erik Erickson’s classic study of the social life cycle final consideration is given to “ego integrity.”  By this term the author means an integration of one’s life without despair.  It is the acceptance of death with tranquility because life has been lived according to principle.  Certainly Eleazar dies with such integrity in today’s first reading.

The scene is quite graphic.  The old man is being forced to do his religion’s abominable act of eating pork.  When he refuses, his friends tell him to fake the abomination in order to save his life.  But Eleazar knows that such a travesty is a fate worse than death.  He chooses to die with integrity and leave behind a rich legacy to Jews throughout the ages.

As we grow old, we should be seeking ego integrity.  The task does not require exertion as much as thought, conviction, and sacrifice.  We must discern our life principles that include faith and aspects of our culture and decisions we have made along the way.  We might share these principles so that others could help us see them through.  Perhaps they require repentance of the mistakes that we have made in failing to live up to Christ’s commands.  Then we must take care to practice them until the end.

Monday, November 15, 2021

 

Optional Memorial of Saint Albert the Great, bishop

(I Maccabees 1:10-15.41-43.54-57.62-63; Luke 18:35-43)

A blind man enjoyed telling people that he could see.  He did not mean literally but figuratively.  The people would explain something to him, and he would say “I see” to indicate that he understood what they were saying.  In this sense the blind man of today’s gospel sees very well.

The blindman of the gospel sees who Jesus is.  He is the “Son of David,” the royal Messiah endowed with the gift of healing.  He can take away physical ailments like blindness as well as spiritual ailments like sin.  Restored with physical sight, the man wisely follows Jesus to eternal life.

Today’s patron saint, Albert the Great, possessed such spiritual insight.  He could see that his student, Thomas Aquinas, was a theologian of exceptional brilliance.  When Thomas’ classmates called him a “dumb ox,” Albert said that his bellowing one day would resound throughout the world.  Indeed, there has never been written a more comprehensive, coherent, and insightful compendium of theology than Thomas’ Summa Theologica. 

Sunday, November 14, 2021

 THIRTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

(Daniel 12: 1-3; Hebrews 18: 11-14.18; Mark 13: 24-32)

It is not unheard of for people to ask prayers for their pet animals. They become so worried that their dog is not eating or that their cat is not walking that they seek help from above. However, the request creates a dilemma for the priest. An animal does not have an eternal soul like humans. It seems that it is destined for annihilation with death. But a priest can always bless an animal as an aid to human beings. Also, he can pray that the person is relieved of his or her distress over the sick pet.

Of the inhabitants of the earth only men and women have imperishable souls. The Book of Genesis teaches that the first humans had access to the tree of life. However, for their attempt to seize the state of God, they were sentenced to death. Only because of the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, highlighted in today’s second reading, did they receive the forgiveness of that sin. Christ’s sacrifice also won the grace so that they could become perfect like him.

The gospel reports Jesus’ description of his return at the end of time. He will come to gather his faithful into the kingdom of his Father. He says that the blessed will include all kinds of people: Asians from the east, Africans from the south, indigenous from the west, and Russians from the north. These people have a common characteristic - justice. According to the first reading from the prophet Daniel the teachers of justice will stand out like stars in the night sky.

We want to know when the return of Jesus will take place. But Jesus says this knowledge is unavailable. Therefore, we must always be prepared for it to happen. Preparation involves more than maintenance. We have to do more than show up for mass on Sunday and not steal from our neighbor. Preparation for his coming consists of repenting of our faults so that we continually grow in perfection. We have to be like the great artists always improving their skills with continual practice.

The temptation to treat animals as human persons is not new. There are mummies in the pyramids of ancient Egypt of cats, dogs, crocodiles, and other animals. We know that treating animals as if they were humans would be an outrage. However, we do not believe that mistreating animals is allowed, be they house pets, farm livestock, or even wild animals of the jungle. As God's creatures, we give them care, although it is not wrong to use them for food, for scientific experiments, or even, with discretion, for sport. In the end we will be judged also by our justice towards them.

The short days that people are now experiencing in the north should remind us of the end time. The night and the cold should warn us that death is a reality for everyone. The victory of Jesus Christ over sin and death is also real. For this reason he is described in the gospels as the rising sun. Because he will return to be our judge, we strive to be perfect like him.

Friday, November 12, 2021

Memorial of Saint Josaphat, bishop and martyr

(Wisdom 13:1-9; Luke 17:26-37)

Jesus tells his disciples that the end will come quickly.  He is warning them that they will not have a long time to repent of their sins.  Therefore – and this is his point -- they must always be prepared.  They must live like refugees always with bags packed so that they can go on a moment’s notice.  In this case, however, they need good works not the proper clothes and papers for travel.

“Business as usual” will not be good enough.  Disciple virtue should exceed those of other people.  Jesus’ disciples will tell the truth not only when they have nothing to lose but when it brings embarrassment or even punishment.  They will take time to listen to the troubled when they are busy, not only when they have time to waste.  In these ways they will merit Jesus’ favor upon his return.

Today the Church celebrates the first canonized saint of the Eastern Catholic churches.  St. Josaphat was a polish national who became a monk and then a bishop.  As a true disciple, Josaphat did more than most.  He reformed his diocese which was in disarray from a lax clergy.  He also defended Eastern Catholicism caught between the often hostile forces of Orthodoxy and Latin Catholicism. 

  

Thursday, November 11, 2021

 Memorial of Saint Martin of Tours, bishop

(Wisdom 7:22-8:1; Luke 17:20-25)

An article just published in First Things gives examples for today’s lesson from the Book of Wisdom.  The writer shows how Leo Tolstoy sees wisdom embracing more than theoretical knowledge.  Wisdom, he would say, includes an understanding of how things work in a particular place and time.  It is born at least as much from experience as from books.  In War and Peace Tolstoy tells of how a general dismisses elaborate plans to defeat Napoleon as contingent on too many factors.  The general realizes that the deciding factor is always the morale of his army aimed in the right direction. 

The Book of Wisdom likewise teaches that wisdom is more than knowledge.  It is intelligent but also beneficent, unstained, and firm.  Wisdom enters into people so that they might know what God expects of them.  Because of wisdom, humans can do all kinds of things that please God.

Today the Church remembers one of the wisest saints of antiquity.  St. Martin of Tours was a soldier who retired his sword to serve Christ.  He became a monk and later a bishop.  He was renowned for his ability to convert pagans, administer Church needs, and work for reconciliation among differing parties. 

Wednesday, November 10, 2021

 Memorial of Saint Leo the Great, pope

(Wisdom 6:1-11; Luke 17:11-19)

Today’s gospel is traditionally read on Thanksgiving Day. The reason is obvious; it is about giving thanks.  Jesus has healed ten lepers, and one -- only one and he, a Samaritan -- returns to thank him.  Jesus extols him not only for giving thanks but also for doing so when his benefactor was of a different faith tradition.  Something similar is happening in America today.

The desire to give thanks is found throughout the world.  People everywhere have an almost innate need to thank others, if not God, for their welfare.  For this reason, Mexicans in border towns like to join family and friends on the American side for Thanksgiving dinner.  When doing so, they may take time to not only say grace before the meal but also spend time in common prayer afterwards.  Standing in a circle, each person will name aloud the benefits he or she has received with God’s help.

The Thanksgiving Day Mass also attracts a fair number of people.  Instinctively we know that the Eucharist is the best way to give thanks.  Latinos again excel here.  They seem more likely than European-American counterparts to participate in the Thanksgiving Mass. They believe that it actualizes Jesus’ death so that they might participate in it and have eternal life.  For this opportunity as well they want to thank him.

Tuesday, November 9, 2021

 Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome

 (Ezekiel 47:1-2.8-9.12; I Corinthians 3:9c-11.16-17; John 2:13-22)

 Today’s feast celebrates the dedication of the Lateran Basilica.  Many wonder, what is so great about that?  It is one of the four magnificent churches in Rome and the locale of five general councils of the Church, the most important one being the fourth in 1215.   That council called for bishops to appoint preachers and to support them in their work.  The mandate paved the way for the establishment of the Dominican Order a year later.

 More importantly, the Lateran Cathedral is the church of the Bishop of Rome, the Vicar of Christ.  As such, it serves as the symbol of all Christian churches.  In other words, today we honor all the churches in the world.  A church is the preferred meeting place of the human person with God.  As we enter a church, we make a blessing with holy water.  This is a way of cleansing ourselves from the mess we sometimes make in the world so that we may communicate with God.

 The deepest meaning for a church is actually Christ himself.  The Church is the body of Christ as Jesus implies in today’s gospel.  Here we feel his warm embrace.  For this reason a church has been considered as a sanctuary where sinners and even criminals might find refuge.  Today we celebrate not so much a building but Jesus Christ.  We give God thanks for the love Christ has shown us and for the peace he imparts to us.

Monday, November 8, 2021

 

Monday of the Thirty-second Week in ordinary Time

(Wisdom 1:1-7; Luke 17:1-6)

More than most of us, government officials are subject to corruption.  People pursue them because fortunes – no longer millions or billions, but sometimes trillions – are dependent on their decisions.  To stay morally righteous, they need wisdom.  To provide them with it, the author of the Book of Wisdom wrote his text.

Today’s passage constitutes the book’s beginning.  The author urges officials to love justice.  He does not mean the police or social equality but a solidly moral life.  He says that God cannot abide a deceitful person.  People commonly say, “God helps those who help themselves.”  The author has a different message.  He says that God helps those who seek Him with integrity.  That is, God will assist those who obey His commands and pray to Him for guidance.

Of course, the admonishments offered in this text applies to all of us.  We have to live righteously if we expect God to come to aid us.  We are wise as well to ask for the specific assistance we need to fulfill our responsibilities.

Sunday, November 7, 2021

THIRTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

(I Kings 17: 10-16; Hebrews 9: 24-28; Mark 12: 38-44)

A writer contrasts the trajectories of two young women. She wants to show that a primary motive for abortion that feminists propose can be a lie. In the gospel Jesus will contrast the scribes with the poor widow in a similar way.

The writer tells of Patricia and Kelly. At nineteen the two were two months pregnant. Both shed tears because of their lot and considered aborting their babies. Patricia was a college student like the baby's father. Kelly worked as a receptionist. Her boyfriend also had a job.

Patricia had the abortion and continued in college. As almost always in these cases, her boyfriend left her. Later, she enrolled in law school and eventually landed a position with a prestigious law firm. From there her career took off. She worked long hours, but she also traveled to various parts of the world. Not wanting to marry, she had several lovers. However, at age thirty-five she began to worry about not having her own family. She then yielded to a man who had long sought her love. Because of having used contraceptives for years, Patricia could not conceive. Only with in vitro fertilization did the couple have a child. Patricia celebrated her fifty-fifth birthday with her husband in Europe. They had to leave their son with a sitter at home. At the age of sixty-eight, Patricia died of cancer. In her last days she had some visitors among whom was her son. Her ashes were scattered over the river in her city.

Kelly, the other young women, was unable to proceed with the abortion. Her mother was furious at first, but she ultimately helped her. As almost always in these cases, her boyfriend left her. Within six months Kelly was experiencing the most acute pain of her life with the birth of her child. She was then concerned about how she was going to attract a boyfriend if she had to always take her child with her. But in time she could not imagine life without her daughter, much less how she ever thought of aborting her. Kelly married a responsible man, and the two had twins along with Kelly's baby girl. In fifteen years the lives of the entire family were filled with soccer games and theatrical plays at the high school which the twins attended. Kelly and her family celebrated her fiftieth-fifth birthday at a Spaghetti Factory in their town. The twins already had their careers, and Kelly baby-sat the two children of her daughter and her son-in-law. At the age of sixty-eight, Kelly also died of cancer. Many family members and friends visited her before her death, and the church was filled for her funeral.

Some say abortion is necessary so as not to burden the lives of young people who become unexpectedly pregnant. But the full lives of Patricia and Kelly, which seem quite realistic, show that this assumption is at least questionable. Because life is good and full of possibilities, it is very possible that in time an abortion will seem tragic to everyone. Meanwhile raising a child will usually fill a person with great satisfaction.

In the gospel today Jesus comments on two types of people not very different from Patricia and Kelly. He says that the scribes, who seem to have everything going for them now, are to be punished.  The punishment may take place either before or after death. Meanwhile, the widow, who gives to the temple all that she has, already has found the Lord's approval. Her prize in heaven will be even greater.

Friday, November 5, 2021

 

Friday of the Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time

(Romans 15:14-21; Luke 16:1-8)

 When Grant Desme gave up the very real possibility of playing major league baseball to study for the priesthood, many probably thought he was following a “higher calling.”  Priesthood has traditionally been considered a way to serve God in a noble way.  Even in St. Paul’s time this was true as he intimates in today’s reading from his Letter to the Romans.

 Paul writes that in preaching the gospel he is performing a “priestly service.”  He doesn’t mean that he is acting like an ordained priest in the contemporary sense.  Rather he intends that in enabling others recognize the Lordship of Jesus, he serves like an Old Testament priest.  The fact that Paul mentions it at the culmination of his letter indicates that he too considers this work a “higher calling.”

 The same calling "higher calling" is given to all of us.  In responding to the challenge of the New Evangelization, we help others can find their way to Christ.  This priestly ministry is not foreign or out of character to laypersons.  Rather as baptized members of Christ’s body, we too share in his priestly office. 

Thursday, November 4, 2021

 Memorial of Saint Charles Borromeo, bishop

(Romans 14:7-12; Luke 15:1-10)

St. Paul asks, perhaps rhetorically, “…why do you look down on your brother and sister?’  The question is not difficult to answer.  People look down on one another in order to make themselves seem superior.  Since others, looking down upon them, made them feel subservient, they want to have the pleasure of looking down upon others.  It seems to be an endless chain of unequal relations.

Paul, however, notes that the vicious cycle has been broken.  Christ has died for all.  Those who believe in him are lifted up so high that they are not subservient to anyone.  Yet they live in humble submission to Christ.  Doing so, they do not insist on their own will, but try accommodating their will to others’.

St. Charles Borromeo at least listened to others.  He is famous for calling many councils and synods as Archbishop of Milan.  His sense of humble service was highlighted in his personal care for plague victims in the sixteenth century.

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

 (Optional) Memorial of Saint Martin de Porres, religious

(Romans 13:8-10; Luke 14:25-33)

Two years ago Patrick Johnson, an inmate of a Florida prison, published a novel featuring St. Martin de Porres.  Martin does not have a primary role in the story.  He stays in the background emerging at times to help the main character.  Nor does Martin perform any of the tasks for which he is famous.  He  does not feed the hungry, heal the sick, or serve the friars.  He just saves the protagonist from harm.

Mr. Johnson has captured the essence of this saint.  Martin helped people in distress.  He was so present to the distraught that he seemed on occasion to be in two places people at the same time.  Yet just saying that Martin was good at helping others falls short of describing his accomplishment.  Martin treated others in agony as would have treated the crucified Lord.  He loved them with his whole heart as from childhood he would spend hours at a time before the crucifix. 

Martin makes a marvelous patron for any and all.  Being poor and humble, he models the remedies of overindulgence and self-promotion that characterize our age.  Being devout and responsible, he exemplifies for us Jesus’ two great commandments.  Man or woman, rich or poor, Black or White, we can find in Martin qualities to emulate.  Doing so will move us closer to him on the road to eternal life.

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

 

The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls Day)

(Wisdom 3:1-9; Romans 5:5-11; John 6:37-40)

Recently a well-known preacher in the Hispanic world posed a disturbing question.  Commenting on a letter that Pope Emeritus Benedict wrote regarding his desire to see his dead friends soon, Fr. Santiago Martin asked if most people today really believe in eternal life.  He was not referring only to the vast public but to regular Catholics as well.  He has noticed that homilies seldom speak of eternal life, much less of purgatory and hell.

The lack of frank talk about the last things has left the faithful without a strong stimulus to live a just life.  They will have great difficulty when in the end they meet with the Judge whom they will not be able to deceive with flattery or boasting.  If God is just, even though He loves every human as His own, He will have to turn back those who have ignored Him and have failed to repent of their sins.  Prayers are offered today for those who apparently were unrepented but may have had a private conversion.

Each of the Scripture readings gives hope to those who act justly, not to those who act selfishly.  The passage from the Book of Wisdom claims the “souls of the just are in the hand of God,” not those who ignored their neighbor in need.  St. Paul writes to the Romans that those who “have grown into union with him through a death like his…will be united with (Christ) in the resurrection.”  He is referring to a life of sacrifice for God’s sake.  Surely Jesus in the gospel means more than giving lip service to faith when he says that those who believe in him will be raised on the last day.  True faith in Jesus always is manifested by love for others.