Seasonal Challenges: The Family

NAVIGATING THE SEASON

What better time than to address the word family during the Christmas season. For many uniting with family members brings much joy and happiness especially when members travel for miles to be with their loved ones. The reminiscing of good times and relishing the time together is much cherished. However, for others family time is not so good. Time together brings pain, anger, and a whole host of feelings that not very healthy in the scheme of things. Some people avoid reuniting with family members altogether. Yet as we have heard and read throughout the past weeks, this is a time that we should attempt to reconcile our differences and perhaps start renewing those strained relationships.

It is easy to forget that the Holy Family was not altogether perfect. I am sure that Joseph had his own challenges in trying to provide for his family as well as warding off rumors about his young wife. We don't hear of them, but the fact is that in all families there is usually some type of dissension about certain family members. Mary herself certainly heard rumblings as well. And then there was this child Jesus who would stay behind that one time at the temple while his family left. That incident I am sure provoked rumors. 

THE SOLUTION IS SIMPLE, BUT CHALLENGING

And so we are challenged in our own families of origin to carry on despite the hardships, pain, and backstabbing that occurs. What do we do? The book of Sirach provides some basic guidelines on respect, honor and patience with family members. Perhaps the most challenging line in the reading for me is "My son take care of your father when he is old, grieve him not as long as he lives. Even if his mind fails, be considerate of him; revile him not." My father who died six years ago suffered from Alzheimers and this passage hits home every time I read it. We are asked to be patient and considerate even when some challenges are ongoing and try our strength. I find that in reflecting on this time with my own father I found a patience and compassion I did not know I had.  Although separated by considerable distance and not being able to see him often, I treasured those times with him as difficult as they were especially when he would no longer recognize me. "Whoever honors his father is gladdened by children, and when he prays is heard."

Paul again challenges us with the passage from his letter to the Colossians with "having heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another." Yes forgiving one another, for me the ultimate challenge.  But Paul reminds us to let the peace of Christ control our hearts. So easy to forget during this season.  Letting Christ in and myself out.  Do everything in the Lord. How challenging is that? Using both word and deed the verse continues, Paul encompasses all that the Christmas season is about.

There is no perfect family. We think we see what a family is all about when we see families that seem to have it all together. No Cleaver family exists that I know of. No Wally, no Beaver, no Ward and June. Accepting the family of origin that I have is the key. Yes we have issues, but so does everyone else. The example of the Holy Family is that of faith and accepting the will of God in all situations, both good and bad. Paul reminds us to let the word of God dwell in us. No better way than doing that than attending Mass together, praying together and encouraging each other.

Let's Get Excited Just A Little Bit

GETTING EXCITED ABOUT ADVENT

"I'm so excited, and I just can't hide it." The opening line to the pop hit Let's Get Excited from the Pointer Sisters in 1982. I particularly liked this song because it seemed to bring life to dances and weddings that I attended during that decade. An energy came upon the people and it seemed no one was afraid to demonstrate their dancing abilities good or not.  And here we are at Guadete Sunday not hitting the dance floor, but in full swing of Advent season. For me it is a time of deep reflection about my spiritual path and if I am truly excited about the coming of our Savior.

Just a day ago my adult son asked me if I get excited about anything. He pointed out that I seem to be pretty low key even about the impending trip to see my mother. Over the years he has reminded me that I don't get excited about much, even when our favorite sports teams win a championship. He asked me if I was excited when he and his sister were born. "Of course," I replied and the conversation moved on to my wedding day. "Well, I was too drained to be very excited as I was quite busy with shuttling relatives and picking up arrangements," I responded. No I guess I don't get excited about much or maybe I just am guarded about it.

SO WHY AM I JOYFUL?

So this morning meditating on Paul's message to the Thessalonians (1 THES 5:16) I was once again forced to address the question, " Am I excited about Jesus coming?"  Can I rejoice?  For me this has been a difficult year reckoning with health issues and the general breakdown of our political system and it seems society as a whole. Sometimes I am not in joyful mood. However, at Mass our exuberant pastor told the congregation we should be joyful just being able to celebrate every Sunday. As many of us know celebrating Mass, taking communion, or even professing our Catholic faith, is a danger in some nations around the world. His message struck a chord with me.  I am joyful about the fact I with my family can attend Mass with people who are celebrating the life of Christ. Some of these people have become close friends and have watched my children grow. Others I have bonded with in working together for various groups supporting the parish. I am joyful that I can go to Mass daily if I have the time.  And the list goes on.

READY TO DANCE

I may not be the most excitable person in the world but internally I am joyful when I take the time to reflect. I can't dance with the energy of the Pointer Sisters song anymore, but I can spread my joy in my interactions with family members. Although most of the time begrudgingly I can give thanks in all circumstances for I know that there is reason and season for all things. Perhaps I am also asked to bring joy to others less fortunate in whatever way.  Living in California so many of the citizens have been devastated by the relentless torrent of fires that continue to hamper our state. There are a multitude of opportunities that avail themselves to me if only I pray for the ability to be open to the Spirit.

Finally as I concluded my meditative session in early hours I realized that I am quite joyful about the opportunity of the daily time that God has graced me with in order that I can become closer to him. This alone should be my primary joy. Rejoice always as the Almighty has done great things for me. A consideration as I live out the rest of Advent.

Whose Voice?

By Didier Descouens - Own work, 

Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=57571379

My previous post Awake or Awakened I alluded to  idea that one can be awake but not necessarily awakened. In both the first reading from Isaiah and the Gospel reading from Mark we hear of a voice crying in the wilderness or the desert proclaiming salvation of the people. We hear many voices in our society today, but they seem to be competing with each other and most of them lead us onto roads that usually have dead ends.  I never considered that instead of listening to these voices that I myself am being asked to be the voice. Imagine what the world would be like if we who have traveled the path into the desert which seems to have no return, come back and proclaim the word. We who do not take the easy way out, who have endured trials and tests, yet emerge victorious time and time again raise our voice to proclaim the way. What would the world be like?

As I reflected this morning on my daily meditation, the question was posed, "What is your role in proclaiming the coming of the Lord?" Am I merely awake or have I been awakened to action? Am I the passive listener who internalizes the Word or do I truly live it out? Do I take bold actions in this time of secular relativism and live out my faith so that others can see? The answers to these questions are not easy for me to consider, partly because I know that I am similar to the disciples cowering in the upper room after Jesus ascended in heaven. I am afraid of the world out there, how people will think of me if I take the bold action and truly live out my faith. John the Baptist demonstrated no such fear as far as we know. Emboldened by the Spirit he took action bringing hope to those looking for something better than what they had.

Faith and hope. Two words that are very much part of Scripture and despite the numerous stories of the ancients that due to their faith in God and the hope that God would deliver them, I still waiver.  Yet something in me says there is still reason to move forward. Hope against hope.  Interestingly enough when the word hope is defined in the dictionary, the reader comes upon two definitions for the noun:  archaic hope - a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen; hope - a feeling of trust.  I gravitate towards the second as I have trust/faith in God, but don't like to desire for certain things to happen because as I human I become disillusioned when things don't happen as planned.  For right now I will trust that God can use me as voice to someone, somewhere today, and bring the news of the coming of our Lord. 

So I am off to Mass and today I will be a lector for the first two readings. Although I didn't really think of it until I began writing this piece, I am proclaiming the Good News. Happy Second Sunday of Advent. May this season be filled with hope and may you have the faith of Mary as you await the coming of our Savior.

Awake or Awakened?

AWAKE AND AWAKENED

This morning I was listening to my daily meditative reflection which focused on the Advent theme of being awake. However, it wasn't so much as focusing on us being awake which is important, but trying to find what God has awakened or tried to awaken in the individual over the past year. I particularly like to focus on the present. For one it seems that I don't have a lot of time to focus on the past and two I like many try not to focus on the past as it sometimes brings back memories of my not so best moments.  The reflection really provoked me to search for what has been awakened in me this past year.

I have a tendency to focus on the negative so this was quite challenging. What has been awakened in me? The past year has been quite challenging for me with constant pain due to neck issues that required surgery and then as the recovery process took place back pain that has become chronic and debilitating at times. Knowing that this has caused me considerable of amount of emotional and psychological pain is quite clear. Also knowing that these conditions have affected those around me as well has awakened in me the every burdening defect of self-centeredness. A good thing? Maybe God is utilizing my pain to help me rely more on his grace, to take each day, each hour, each second as a moment of his infinite love for me. Although this is difficult because I don't like pain as it puts a crimp in my plans socially and for physical activities such as cycling which has become a passion of mine.

WHO IS AT THE CONTROLS?

What has awakened in me is a clear sense that I must accept these hardships along with those that affect family members and friends as well. Thus acceptance and surrender are key. I am not in control. Oh, how that pains me to come to that realization. I am a control freak. I like to plan things out whether it be family activities, trips,  long term lesson plans, life, and the list goes on. I become agitated when the train derails or takes an alternative route. Conceptually I know that God is in control and the more I turn over my plans, my health, and my life to him things will turn out well.

Spiritually, I always find these life challenges difficult. I like to think that my road map will bring me what is best for me. However, I am usally wrong. Left to my own plans the vehicle would have long gone off the road, the keys would have been taken away, and I would be walking by myself on a road to nowhere to quote the Talking Heads song.

In these early morning moments I am able to find what I think God is trying to reveal to me. Having a deeper sense of being awakened, I resolve to reflect this Advent season on what has been awakened in me and at the same time stay awake for what will be revealed.

The King's Hands

THE KING'S HANDS

He came not to sit at the tables of the rich and take in it all

but to serve the lepers, the unsightly, those of stature so small

His food feeds the homeless, the sick, and deprived

A king who sits with the poor the lame, and those recently arrived

A king who treats each  with loving hands extended

No harsh words, no banishments, no life upended 

No scepter, no sword, no soldiers no unjust decrees

But with a loving spirit as a breeze would blow through the trees

So take a moment and extend your blessed hands

Grow his kingdom to those in near and faraway lands

Bring in those lost, broken, and hungry

Gather them for all to see

His Kingdom is here for eternity

© 2017 Christian Miraglia

Who Has Talent?

YOU WANT TALENT, WE HAVE IT!

Do a Google search and see how many talent shows now appear on television.  There seems to be an endless stream of them. I counted twenty-five. Some have come and gone and others continue to grace the televisions of audiences weekly. American Idol, America has Talent, The Voice, Dancing with the Stars are to name a few. It is not just in our nation, but in also in Europe and Asia where one can see spinoffs of shows whose origin is from Great Britain or from the United States. Some of these shows have some dreadful performances from contestants that leave one cringing, other performers go on to larger audiences as musical stars.  So what is is our infatuation with these shows? Is there true talent or is it just for entertainment, ridicule and laughs?

THE ULTIMATE TALENT SHOW

Let's think for a moment of the ultimate game show with Jesus as host. It is appropriately named as well Who has Talent. Jesus solicits members of the audience to come demonstrate their talents. The key to winning this game is to able to quickly find the talent that corresponds with a scenario that we were faced with during our time on earth. Everyone is a contestant. Winners move to the next level, heaven, losers, well let's just say they don't go to heaven.

The game begins with the first contestant. Mind you this game is not about beauty, wealth, or other fleeting gifts, it is about what is in the hear. Jesus produces a situation in which a homeless person is the off ramp with a sign that says homeless in need of food. He asks the contestant, "What will you do?" The contestant stammers and fumbles around. "Donate to a homeless organization!" Jesus responds, "In as much as that sounds good it is an incorrect answer. Please exit to the door on the left."

The second contestant enters the stage. Jesus produces a scenario where a person approaches the contestant and states, " I am cold, do have anything that can help me through the night?" The contestant instantly takes their jacket and gives it to the person. Jesus proclaims, "Well done, my good and faithful servant, I will give you great responsibilities. Please continue on." The contestant is then faced with a difficult person in a shopping line in front of them who is loud and complaining about everything. The contestant pauses for a moment, prays for the person and offers to help them with paying for part of their groceries. The angry person in voice that the whole store can hear says, "I don't need help from anyone and certainly from you!" The contestant responds, "God bless your day." Jesus, without losing a moment, states, "You truly have a house in my kingdom. Please exit on the right.  The audience applauds as the game continues on with next contestant.

We are participants in the talent show. We are asked to use our God-given talents daily although sometimes we are not sure if we have anything to offer. Dig deep, pray, reflect. I have over the years found that I have much more than I ever thought I could offer. For me it comes down to living in the light. In the light I can find my talents much easier than living in the dark where due to my self-centeredness I am blinded not only to the needs of others, but also to fact that I may have the ability to help with a talent and not realize it.  I would like to think that I could be a winner on this show, but depends on me.

Talent Search

GOD TALENTS VERSUS SOCIETY'S TALENTS

Pope Francis alludes to the word talent not necessarily as an individual quality as performing well academically or as an athlete, finding the blessings of the Lord and then using them to promote the betterment of the kingdom (Magnificat Vol 19 pg 284). This definition is one that conflicts with our society that focuses on the concept of individual achievement.  I myself  like to think that I am talented in certain areas such as leadership, teaching, and some minimal athletic skills. To these I have not given much thought about how these talents are not based on my prowess as a person, but actually graced by God.

Much of my adulthood has been spent on developing my talents for my own recognition especially in the area of my profession, teaching. I have been honored for my abilities and skills, but I never really spent much time on how I can become a better teacher in order to increase God's kingdom here on earth.  However, slowly and gradually, much like the sloth in the recent GEICO commercial who draws a straight line on a paper, I have realized that my profession is not just about the talent of teaching, but I can bring the love of Christ to others as well in various encounters throughout the day.

VISIBLE TALENTS

For the last few years I have heard and read the statement,  "can you be identified as Catholic?" I would like to think that the blessing of my faith is also a talent. Certainly most of my students know my faith identification because we share things in common such as similar faith traditions, the sacraments and other customs. "Oh I know he is Catholic because he goes to this church or he talked about Ash Wednesday," might be a common response. Identification itself is not a talent though. Truly using the gifts that I have discovered in my latter years such as compassion, forgiveness, and mercy is what I would like to think as using my God talents.

By relying on only what is visible and is identifiable to others I am no different to the servant that buries his talent in the ground. I do not search but become complacent in what I have.  This in itself is a real danger as I become blinded to the opportunities to serve others thus shut out the kingdom of God. Sometimes what I see as talent is more of a delusion of grandeur as I think I am serving God, but upon reflection when the opportunity seems to have failed I can see that it was not about me, but about serving others even for short while and developing long lasting friendships.

DIGGING 

Jesus said "for everyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away." (MT 25:29)It is important to distinguish that this is not about material riches as we are bombarded by the pre-Thanksgiving ads for Christmas, but for the spiritual gifts. Discovering them or better said allowing God to reveal them might require some digging in our own histories to discard that which has prevented us finding them. Getting rid of those unnecessary burdens which might have weighted us down, and shoveling the dirt off of us so we can experience the light of Christ can then reveal those talents which are truly God-given.  Approaching Advent is a opportune time to find those hidden treasures that have been buried, but are awaiting to be used. For me this means spending time prayer to dig and shovel off that which is preventing me to fully use my talents.

Entirely Catholic

CARRYING ON THE FAITH

What a gift to see the young communicants being presented at Mass today and taking their vows. My first thought though is we will see them after First Communion with their families. Anecdotally speaking there seems to be a decline in commitment to continue with the sacraments or at least Mass attendance. Our church today was burgeoning at the seams as the missals were taken up and communion line was exceptionally long.  The question remains will the parents continue with their duty to raise their children with the teachings of the Mother Church? But what about today's Gospel message? Will we as individual Catholics be identified more than in just name, but by our actions?

FAITH AT ALL COSTS

Today our celebrant spoke of people who lived out their faith despite the costs. He mentioned those who died during the Spanish Civil War who are up for beatification.  His reference was to the of the Holy Order of Vincentians but also those citizens who died during the conflict, some as young as a year old. The postulator, Sr Angeles Infante stated in the article published by the Catholic World Report, “It‘s not a violent death that makes you a martyr, but the cause you die for, which is Christ. They gave their lives for God, embodying the faith through their witness, forgiving and asking their families to forgive.” 

This week I heard another heartwarming story of a priest is truly is living out his faith. The story coming from the Seize the Day show hosted by Gus Lloyd on the Catholic Channel of Sirius XM radio highlighted a priest who would frequent a food court in a local mall and approach people asking them if he could pray for a particular petition as he carried his Rosary. If the person allowed for him, he then would pray a Hail Mary in their presence. 

LIVING THE FAITH DAILY

All of this provoked me to think, "Can I be truly identified as a Catholic, more than in just name?" In another words am I entirely Catholic? Initially, the answer is yes. I attend Sunday Mass and at times if I am able to daily Mass. I make sure I attend Mass on Holy Days of Obligation. I go to confession four times a year and make an effort to complete an examination of conscience nightly.  I have a prayer and meditation time early every morning. These are things that visible for those people close to me, that is the easy part. I can't rest on my identity as a Catholic like the scribes and the Pharisees (MT 23:1). My actions must extend beyond my label.

Here is the real challenge for me. Am I Catholic as I navigate the congested freeways of Southern California on my daily commute to work? Of course the answer is yes as I listen to Catholic Channel. But wait a minute I approach a driver who is on their cell phone moving across the divided line that divides the lanes. Or a car that is exceeding the speed limit rapidly approaches behind me than suddenly swerves into the lane next to me as the driver seemingly clueless hurdles down the freeway. What is my response? Well, put it this way I won't put it into words. However a prayer for the safety of these drivers might be the right approach.

Arriving at work I need to make copies for my classes and our every so reliable copy machine is down on a Monday again. This is only the 50th time in the last three years that this has happened. What is my first response? Catholic or not? Once again no words need to be mentioned. As my co-workers come by and see me on my knees (no I am not praying) pulling out the innards of the machine to retrieve a crumbled up paper do they hear silence or do they hear the copy machine litany which cannot be printed here? 

I am challenged daily by interactions with people both young and old as well. Is my reaction Catholic? Do I pray for patience with difficult situations or do I force my will? This is all so quite difficult especially when it relates to Church teaching on controversial issues.  My hope is that I have the courage to voice my beliefs no matter what the cost even when it is not convenient. How I approach the poor, marginalized and powerless as well is another daily challenge. 

THE CHALLENGE

But I am asked to truly live out my faith. I am not perfect, but knowing that is quite liberating as long as am connected to God. So here is my readers challenge. Take one day and see how you are able to live out your faith. You might surprise yourself and find that you are living example of true Catholic and at the same time you might find that you have some areas that need some work. I know that I have and will continue to do so.  I am reassured that many who have gone before me have done the same. As our celebrant reminded us today as he told the congregation about the sparse crowd during All Saints Day Mass due to the Dodgers playing in the World Series, we are called to be saints and to put our faith first and the rest will follow. 

Of Taxes and God

PAYING TRIBUTE

I find the idea of an angry Jesus intriguing. For me it I see God's only son as quite human and in the case of the disciples of the Pharisees and Herodians deceitfully questioning Jesus about taxes his reaction demonstrates that. And of course what can incite a heated conversation in our nation, but that of taxes, or most recently symbols.

But understanding that the coin that Jesus refers to was a tribute to Cesar is important. The coin was part of a financial system that was part of the Roman Empire, and Jesus does not dispute that. So in a manner his lack of an answer is quite typical of Christ, that is asking to examine one's motives of such a question.  Where does one most important tribute reside?

OF SYMBOLS

In our nation symbols have come front and center to the public arena and rightfully so as debate can draw on a healthy conversation about justice. However, I am not going to even try to address that, but instead focus on our most important tribute, that of God.

It is quite easy to become to be embroiled in the various debates that inundate our daily life, but in I think Jesus response , “Then repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.” pretty much sums up the idea that we should focus on the things of God most importantly (MT 22:21). This becomes a question of loyalty in a way. Are we focusing on how we can best serve God or are we focusing more on worldly things. 

DISTRACTIONS

I believe that if we take a close look at what is going on in our nation with the controversy over the national anthem, the flag and taxes, and then actually listen to the Gospel readings, Jesus is talking to us. Amidst all of these debates where do our loyalties lie? Do we spend as much time reading, watching, talking about or listening to these issues as we do with God?  A quick inventory is always helpful. 

Do I find myself becoming exceedingly focused on any of these issues in comparison to the amount of time that I pray? Do I find myself gravitating compulsively to the latest news story about the issue (my answer is yes at times)? Have I made these controversies a god in themselves by allowing them to dictate my actions. Do I bow to every comment made by a pundit and find myself angry and resentful?

Being it a weekend in the United States of course there is football and the Fall Classic, the WorldSeries. Perhaps an inventory of how much time one spends following these sports in comparison to time in prayer or even confession and Mass is in order as well. All this being said I believe that Jesus is issuing a challenge to us. The question is are we listening?

An Open Invitation

BANQUET RECOLLECTION

Much has been written about today's Gospel verse about the banquet from preparing for Mass to making ourselves ready for the ultimate eternal banquet, heaven. From childhood banquets meant either sports or Boy Scouts.  The food wasn't very good (remember that banquet chicken and mashed potatoes) but it was a chance to celebrate with teammates or fellow Scouts accomplishments over the past year.  There was never a thought of turning down an invitation to the banquet as it was a big occasion.

Parenthood brought more banquets as my children were good athletes and students. Once again it was an occasion to dress nicely and to mingle. And yes the food usually was bland, but that was not the focus. It was about celebrating successes both as team and individual performances.  An invitation to the banquet meant making sure that all other events were put aside.

MASS INVITATION

Every Sunday we receive an invitation to join in the most important banquet. The question lies in whether we are ready to participate. In many Third World nations going to Mass is quite a festive occasion where the congregants dress in their true Sunday best. Masses are not the customary one hour celebration that are the norm in the United States, but in some African parishes a three hour event. This brings me to the question of how ready are we? Are we hungry for the Eternal Word and Eucharist? My point in this piece is not a condemnation, but of a reflection on how one can become a fully engaged participant in the eternal banquet.

I would like to think that I am ready when I enter the doors of the Church. Over the years I have become more conscious of how I dress as living in Southern California it is quite easy to fall into the trap of dressing quite casual when going to Mass. I have to remind myself that I have been given an invitation to celebrate with hundreds of others in the banquet of life and the least I can do is dress nicely. 

I also have taken a page from Matthew Kelly's book Rediscovering Catholicism in which he makes it clear that we have to spiritually prepare before going to Mass. Reading the Scriptures before actually stepping foot into Church allows for the word to take root especially if one takes time to talk or even write about it. Kelly also promotes the idea of taking a Mass journal into church and taking notes as the celebration takes place.  I have actually done this quite often and find it rewarding as it allows for me to then write later. It is much like a class and I am the student looking for ways to apply the experience in my own life. 

For me it is important to make sure I am not distracted during the time in Mass. I always find it interesting how people use their cell phones to text during Mass. I liken this to a Simpson episode to when Homer in listening to a football game during church suddenly yells out "they scored!" I once heard a priest quite poignantly say that unless God is calling on your phone, you should stay focused on the Mass. 

THE BANQUET OF LIFE

What takes place on Sunday as well as daily Mass is not just contained with in the doors of church.When we receive the dismissal we are told to "Go out and proclaim the good news." Life itself is a feast of its own and we are extended the full invitation to live it out. The very fact that we have been given life is an invitation by God. In a way we are asked to dress up in the form of how we carry ourselves exteriorly.  We are provided with the choice wines and rich food (IS 25:6) to nourish us so that we do not hunger by the way of our daily experiences with our fellow invitees. Given strength by this food we attempt to life to the fullest, much like one would fully participate in a banquet feast with dancing, food, and fellowship. We may have both experience of living in abundance and of being in need (PHIL 4:12). Whatever our circumstances may be we will fully supplied as Paul states. 

The key is not to reject this invitation on Sunday even though we labored during the work week and we may be tired, but to prepare along with host for this celebration. What can we bring to the celebration? What can we wear?  There should be an excitement in attending such an event. After all it is ultimate celebration of life and we as a the Body of Christ should be joyous that we are among those chosen (MT 22:13).

The Risen Christ

The Living Jesus

St Louis of France Church

La Puente CA

Traditions Bring Reflection

Yesterday I attended a quinceneara with my wife for her cousins daughter. For those of you not familiar with this custom in Hispanic culture it is a coming out party for a fifteen year-old daughter and it is a customary to have a Mass and then a party afterwards.  These typically are quite elaborate events with the daughter having a court of her male and female friends that precede her in coming in the church and the daughter then is escorted by her parents to the altar. The parties that follow sometimes run into over ten thousand dollars, with bands of mariachis or even famous people. This one fortunately was not one of those. All this being said, my focus is not on the beautiful ceremony, but on the crucifix above the altar.

Viewing Jesus on the Cross

I am quite used to seeing the Jesus on the cross with his head bowed in death. This is a quite typical scene in churches in the United States, at least the one's I have attended.  However, this church in the Los Angeles area displayed a Jesus that had me awestruck (see the title picture). This Jesus was robust in body and was alive on the cross. His arms extended with life, his face was full of vibrancy. This was not the Jesus that I was accustomed to encountering in church.

Needless to say this got me thinking. What was my view of Jesus when I am in Mass. In my typical manner it is sorrowful. My savior on the cross, his body and spirit broken from the beatings and insults bearing my sins and the sins of the world. Sometimes I am ashamed to even peer at the cross for I wallow in my sinfulness.

The Risen Jesus

This cross displayed in St Louis of France church brings on a whole different meaning. The background of the crucifix is a bright blue and white. Jesus seems to leaping from the cross as if to be saying, "Look, I am alive!" Yes, He is alive in the eucharist, in the word, and in the people assembled before him.

In reflection I came to these conclusions.  Jesus is prompting those in attendance to be alive as well. He is asking us to become fully engaged in the Mass, singing, praising, and carrying the message to those seated next to us by reaching out during the Our Father and grasping the hands of others, to extend hour hands to our neighbors during the proclamation of peace and joyfully exclaim, "Peace be with you!" When the celebrant concludes the Mass with the dismissal, we are prompted to "Go in peace and glorify the Lord"  or "Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord, " Jesus wants us to be alive, renewed, not just rush out of church to our vehicles, to the coffee and donuts, to the sporting event on television and carrying on our secular life. He wants us to have that spring of energy that promotes his fullness and resurrection that bring life to all.

So maybe the next time you go into Mass, take a look at the cross and see a Jesus that died for our sins, but also conjure up the Jesus that I saw yesterday.

More on Thinking

THINKING

I have always thought of myself as a thinker. I analyze and analyze many of the decisions that I need to make, at times researching possible answers or outcomes to the point of being somewhat obsessed with trying to control the outcome.  Thinking things is good at times especially when being impulsive might be quite harmful to others. I even like to think that I am discerning using a theological term.

Yet despite this I find that most of the time my thoughts are not God's thoughts (IS 55:8).  I take myself to Thomas Merton's famous prayer of seeking God's will in which he says, "Nor do I really know myself, and the fact thatI think I am following Your will does not mean that I am
actually doing so." 

REFLECTING

Recently I have been spending time reading Gerard Hughes' book, "God, Where Are You?" As he describes his journey to the Jesuit priesthood from his childhood days he often finds that what he thought was God's will was actually himself creating his idea of what God wanted. He recounts on numerous occasions plunging into what at the time seemed as service to God in his various activities throughout his life, only to find that it was mostly about him and his desire to feed his ego. Reflecting on these memories was key in his increasing realization that God was not just about the Catholic Church or his own desires, but was universal in ways that he never comprehended.  Encouraged by Hughes' writing I began to take my own journey. 

Yes, God's thoughts are not my thoughts nor or His will necessarily reflective on I think it to be. We hear in not only Isaiah, but also in the Responsorial Psalm and in the Gospel of God's ways.  Just reminiscing on my most recent years, I have found that many of my actions that I considered were holy and at the time might have been, later became more about me being recognized as being a good Catholic and promoting the good of the Church. 

WORKING FOR WHO?

And what about others. I labor hard in the vineyard of life and what to be rewarded with just pay and find myself slighted when others might receive recognition for their hard work. I become envious (MT 20:15) and then resentful. How is this person recognized and not me.  There is always a lesson and find that most of the time it is about humility. Can I serve God in this manner? At times I feel the need to retreat, reflect and pray for the desire to better serve.  

Ultimately it comes down to the fact that I am not God, nor do I know what God's plan is for me or for others. Pretending to do so only causes myself emotional anguish and pain for those around me. However, I take solace in the fact that I am not idly standing in the vineyard waiting for something to happen, as I prefer work. I don't always agree with the outcome or wages that God provides, but there is an acceptance that in the long run, it is better for me. 


Thomas Merton from Thoughts in Solitude 1956

My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going.
I do not see the road ahead of me.
I cannot know for certain where it will end.
Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that
I think I am following Your will does not mean that I am
actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please You
does in fact please you.
And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing.
I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire.
And I know that, if I do this, You will lead me by the right road,
though I may know nothing about it.
Therefore I will trust You always though I may seem to be lost
and in the shadow of death.
I will not fear, for You are ever with me,
and You will never leave me to face my perils alone.

Love thy Neighbor as Yourself

Paul's exhortation in his Letter to the Romans concludes, "You shall love thy neighbor as yourself."  Challenging enough to love thy neighbor whoever it may be, but what about loving thyself? What does that mean?  It is a good spiritual practice to reflect on ones actions at the end of the day. Some people prefer the Examen method which is one that I find useful, others a general overview inviting the Holy Spirit to reveal ones actions throughout the day. What do we see?

THE CHALLENGE OF LOVING THYSELF

I find that loving myself is quite difficult. There are so many imperfections and actions throughout my daily existence that sometimes I feel quite overwhelmed.  I find that in conversations I tend to manipulate the topic so that it fits me or I can take credit for something. Likewise in heated moments I can by quite cynical and abrasive with those close to me as well as those I might be serving during the course of the day. I find myself stewing when things don't go in the direction I would like them or even playing out situations in my cluttered mind so that they best fit my needs. Self-centered is the word. I find myself as standoffish when I feel hurt. Quite a few defects of character.

LORD HAVE MERCY ON ME

The key is not go into the self-flagellation mode of which I have a history of doing. What allows me to carry on? Only through the infinite grace of God can I survive. Realizing that I am human and that the mercy of God can transcend all imperfections that I carry if I allow it to penetrate the walls i have erected as self-defense mechanism. Thus I have a general acceptance of myself as a human.

It is then and only then can I truly love thy neighbor. Being tolerant of others imperfections especially when my own faults seemingly outweigh theirs is important. Not getting that spiteful or judging word in when the temptation is so overwhelmingly strong to do so. Surrendering in the moment of anger to the will of God and refraining from volatile social media post are roads to this commandment. As Pope Francis says quite often, "Words can kill too."  This applies to how I perceive myself as well as others.  I quite often gravitate to favorite prayer of mine during the many times where I want nail someone to the cross. It is one that used quite often to those in recovery as well in popular faith circles as well.

God, give me grace to accept with serenity
the things that cannot be changed,
Courage to change the things
which should be changed,
and the Wisdom to distinguish
the one from the other.

Living one day at a time,
Enjoying one moment at a time,
Accepting hardship as a pathway to peace,
Taking, as Jesus did,
This sinful world as it is,
Not as I would have it,
Trusting that You will make all things right,
If I surrender to Your will,
So that I may be reasonably happy in this life,
And supremely happy with You forever in the next.

Amen.

Reinhold Niebuhr

You Think As Human Beings Do

ME AT THE HELM

Nothing is more true when one finds themselves in trouble due to their own human thinking. Jesus rebuke of Peter as he desperately tries to hold onto a human understanding of God's will is a lesson for us as well. The innate desire to control the outcome of situations that are beyond our control only causes heartache, anger, resentment, and the list goes on. For myself this is a daily challenge as I find myself meandering in the inner recesses of my mind in a fruitless endeavor to manage my own life.

I am human therefore I think. That in itself is quite good. I am thankful that I have the ability to do so. However, if I even attempted to measure my thought process in an hour, where my mind goes and how I try to control situations I become an obstacle to the presence of Holy Spirit much as Jesus tells Peter, "You are an obstacle to me. You are not thinking as God, but as human beings do" (MT 16)

YES THE CROSS

I find that most of the time I don't even pause to allow God into a situation that might be troublesome or challenge. I impulsively dive right into it sometimes with good results, sometimes with marginal results, and sometimes creating more problems than what were originally present.  The cross is not something I want to intentionally carry by  giving up my will and offering my body as a living sacrifice as Paul exhorts us in Romans.   He is quite clear as he enjoins us not conform us to this age, but be transformed by renewal of your mind in order to discern the will of God so that we can be good, pleasing, and perfect.  Much easier to be pleased in this day and age then follow Paul's plea to the Romans.

Carrying a cross in our society is far from this message. The easy way out is offered to us at every corner whether it be real or that which is anchored in the recesses of our minds. Moreover, it is easier to go our own way as the Fleetwood Mac song says and ignore the cross.  I heard about two priest today in the homily given by one of our pastors who detailed each of their roads to the sacramental calling. One was a successful hairdresser in Montreal who had it all; the money, the world travels, the nice house and vehicles, and the other was a successful aerospace engineer who had tremendous success as well as wealth. The hairdresser lost his job, house, and money and subsequently ended up on the streets. The engineer despite his success found emptiness in all that he had and heard the call to the priesthood instead. Thinking that more money, more cars, more everything, is very much the message of American definition of success.  We don't pay attention nor do we hear much of those who carry the cross of the Gospel because our media doesn't find value in this.

THE PURSUIT OF EMPTINESS

I can think of the many times in my desire to become a successful person whether in my profession, coaching, parenting, and just being a person living the "American Dream" that I find myself coming up empty. The platitudes are temporary in my quest and leave me desiring more and coming up with less.  As this occurs I find myself coming back to God over and over again. Yes, Psalm 63 rings true as it says, "My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God. Sometimes this is after failure and fault. Other times it is after relentlessly pursuing a goal that may be self-centered.

FINDING WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR

"What do want from me?" is my cry. Maybe it is time I listen and follow Paul as he talks or renewal and Jesus as tells his disciples, "Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself and take up his cross." (MT 16:24) Self denial just might be want the answer is. For me this may mean an examination of how I am living and what am I pursuing. Lately I have been faced with the challenge of recovering from neck surgery along with having back problems. Although my surgical recovery is coming along fine, I want God to fix my back and I want it right now. The question is posed am I asking God to come into each event in my life and denying myself the right to control the situation? Most of the time the answer is no as I prefer to think as humans do. However, when this is done I find myself more at peace with outcomes and at peace with myself in general.

As I continue my life journey despite my desire to control situations I am constantly reminded whether in Scripture or just the events of life that thinking like a human usually doesn't get me anywhere. Inviting God into the challenges of my life and having acceptance of the outcome no matter what the cost is a cross I must carry if I want true life.

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Giving in or Giving up

As I listened to the guided meditation podcast from the Jesuits in Britain today, I was struck by the contrast of the message from today's Gospel from Mark. We read of John the Baptist who is put in prison by Herod and eventually executed. John gave up his life so that Jesus could live and proclaim the word of God. Conversely we also read of Herod who gives into the demands of his wife who he unlawfully married and eventually kills John.

GIVING UP OR NOT

And where do I fit in this story? As I wrote in a previous post I believe there are no coincidences in Scripture. It speaks to us if our hearts and minds are open to it. In looking at John one finds a person who is willing to sacrifice his own life and was unwavering in his message, not compromising himself to the whims of society nor to the very threats to his existence. "He must increase; I must decrease," was his words to his followers. John's words about repentance were very clear even to those who might harm him, yet he carried on.

Here I find myself hesitantly desiring to please God. I want God in my life, but am I willing to go the extra yard and let others know no matter what the consequence? Am I willing to turn my life unconditionally over to God and repent in all my ways. Giving up myself and those things that I hold onto in times of difficulty such as resentment and judgement. Not yet.  Yes, let God increase in my life, but I want this done conditionally. I don't want God prompting me to speak out when people unfairly criticize my faith because I don't want to offend anyone. I like my comfort zone. But John makes one thing clear as he lays the path for Christ teachings, being a believer can and will be uncomfortable. It may even require a very personal sacrifice, but after all this is an example of what Christ did on the cross as well.

GIVING IN

I find it much easier to give in. Herod was perplexed by John and liked listening to him. Perhaps he even considered giving up his marriage as he was drawn to this radical man who preached without fear. Herod even feared John as he knew John was holy as stated in Mark. However, when faced with the decision of sparing John's life, Herod falls to the desires of his vengeful wife. 

Giving into desires and temptation is something we always be faced with. Do I follow my desires and verbally blow someone up on Facebook because I know it will please others? Do I engage in gossip because everyone else is? Do I allow myself to be controlled by what others think of me and therefore take actions that are contrary to my faith? The list goes on and on. I can trace the numerous times where I have given in to all of the above. No I did not kill anyone, but certainly my words or actions were not constructive. There is a Herod in me. The people pleaser, the person who desires that everyone like him, the person who can compromise my values when it seems convenient. This is the easy way out. Being like John is difficult and requires unwavering faith. But I am not taking on this challenge alone.

THE CROSS

Over and over again the Scripture remind us we are in God's hand. Psalm 118 gives us hope as the Lord is called upon despite insurmountable odds and provides refuge. Psalm 34 provides us reassurance that the Lord will answer our call even though we may be burdened. Both the Old Testament and New Testament have various passages that encourage us to take upon the challenge of living out the word of God. The book of Maccabees presents us with the mother and seven sons who were not willing to compromise their beliefs even in the light of a torturous death knowing full well of the consequences.  Leaning on these and many other passages should be reminder that we don't have to compromise our beliefs no matter how difficult the situation can be. The cross of truth may seem heavy as we carry it but we have help in the One that has preceded us. 

No Coincidences Here

I have come to believe that in the timing of our Scripture readings is by no means coincidental. There have been many a time where I have been struggling in dealing with personal issues, work issues, and even health issues in which I open my daily readings only to see a message from either the  Old Testament, Psalms, or New Testament that is crystal clear. Sometimes the message seems to be applicable to events around me, but in the case of today's readings it seems quite clear there is a message for our nation. It is not only given once, but four times.

Let us begin with the first reading from Isaiah. The author uses the word foreigners to describe those joining themselves to the Lord. There is no duplicity in the message. The passage ends with the writer describing a house that will be a house of prayer for all people. I imagine a church that upon review includes people of all races. I happen to live in an area that is reflective of that. However, our presiding priest today challenged us to look deep inside ourselves in wake of the Charlottesville tragedy. Where do we have prejudices that are not always evident. Are we reflective of this house that the Book of Isaiah describes?

Psalm 67 responsorial is "O God, let all the nations praise you." Once again a message of inclusivity. The Gospel message of love is not just for selected people it is for all. I know that it is quite easy to discriminate thinking that a certain group is selected to hold the Gospel truth, but somehow I don't think that would be Jesus' message.

Paul in the Letter to the Romans implores the Gentiles to follow the Gospel message. He utilizes the word mercy as God is merciful with those who once disobeyed and wandered away. The final sentence states " For God delivered all to disobedience that he might have mercy upon all. Once again the word all stands out.

Finally in the Gospel we encounter an Canaanite woman whose daughter is sick.  This woman was quite possibly of mixed heritage being from Sidon and Tyre. The woman was an outsider and is thus treated as so by the disciples as they tell Jesus to send her off. To know that the woman is considered a lesser person is important for two reasons. One being her gender in a society that was patriarchal,  but also as a foreigner there is a clear class division.  Jesus seems to be ignoring the woman the group continue their journey and following the suit of the disciples. But we must remember that God's ways are not our ways. After speaking exclusively of the lost sheep of Israel, Jesus does something that I imagine startles some. He replies to the woman who pleads with him for help using the metaphor of dogs eating scraps from table knowing that this woman would be by many considered a dog. The woman's faith in the power of someone she does not even know, but quite possibly has heard about is rewarded. What is for us to gain here?

Even in turbulent times such as what we are encountering in our nation and throughout the world we are asked to be faithful. Yes I would like many people to be fixed and would love to have an audience with God in which I could present such a list. But that once again would be my plan. God is a God of surprises, to borrow Gerard Hughes book title. In my own life I can reflect on numerous times God when I allow God to drive the car that I have been pleasantly rewarded by His mercy and grace. The very fact that I am writing this blog is one.  Going to God daily and praying for those who pursue the message of hate is important to me,  for without this exercise I know that I can become hateful as well interiorly. That is why Scripture is important for me.

The word of God does not have to be that booming authoritative voice emanating from heaven. It can be found in Scripture and nothing is more evident than that today amidst the violence that continues to divide out nation. The challenge becomes loving those whose purposeful intent is to spread hate and violence. We are a nation that is made up of many peoples, beliefs, and religions and as the readings today provide us we are all one.

The Real Life Challenges of the Gospel

A CHALLENGE IN FACE OF TRAGEDY

I could no help but think when leaving Mass yesterday that inside the Church the congregation was very much in the presence of Jesus, but upon leaving the doors we were cast out upon the waves much like the disciples in the day's Gospel.  Even more profound was the focus of the Mass by the visiting Fr. Lawrence who always provides opportunity to reflect on events, today being the tragic outcomes in Charlottesville Saturday. He really zoomed in on the idea that we all have fears and prejudices, some don't manifest themselves as outwardly as what occurred in Virginia, but if we allow them to manifest they can rise their ugly head in manners that may seem inconceivable.

As a history teacher I see the events that unfolded as a pattern of increased hate towards those who are different whether by skin color, belief, sexual preference and religion.  It seems that we are taking a turn for the worst as some people becoming increasingly intolerant of any thing that might threaten their security. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I see this as an opportunity to embrace the teachings of Christ even more.

WE DON'T FORGET THE PAST

Father Lawrence took us a journey during the homily as he recounted a visit to Auschwitz some years ago. He told us of his interaction with a group of youths from Israel as they entered the ghostly gas chambers where uncounted number of Jews were killed and the ensuing despair and sorrow that encompassed the group as they remained momentarily in the unit. "We know what happened there." he stated, but what brought people to this point was his question. Labels and proclaimed superiority was the answer. His message was clear, this can happen again if we allow it, maybe not on the same level of the Holocaust, but such events as Charlottesville are a wakeup call for us to truly live the Gospel message of love. This means even in the face of tragedy we are called to love those who incite hate and promote violence.


And if this message is not reminder, it is no coincidence that we celebrate the memorial of Saint Maximilian Kolbe. Yes God does speak to us, especially as Catholics when we remember the lives of saints who so valiantly live out the Gospel even in the most dire of circumstances. Furthermore in today's first reading, Moses implores the Hebrews to respond the message to love and serve the Lord for the Lord has no favorites. The Lord befriends the alien so the people must do the same and likewise for the orphans and widows.

HOW DO I LOVE THOSE WHO HATE

As Father Lawrence reminded yesterday, living the Gospel is not easy especially in times where it is much easier let the ugly face of hate to simmer. I would like to think that I bear no ill feelings towards people and I can be quite adept on putting on that face, but upon a thorough examination and with a prayerful attitude I find otherwise. So what are my steps to rid myself of these sentiments. I have found that among those who blog here there have been some wonderful tips on using the Rosary. It has been mentioned that in praying the Rosary that each bead one prayers for a person. In this case I might pray for all those who I bear ill feelings. Another tip that I just recently used was in praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet each bead was dedicated to those people in the news who have exemplified actions of hate. It is amazing how quickly these beads are filled with those people. I only hope that with these actions and the actions of those who truly live out the Gospel that we can begin to repair the polarized state of our nation. Holy Mary Pray for us.

In Search of You

In search of You

As a child I only knew you only by name

My actions always bringing shame

You were the Zeus, the lighting bolt cast down

Forever bringing me low to the ground

Oh how I feared you, your power to break me

Your punishments only to shake me

In my youth I gave up looking for you

Who could be so terrible sending tragedy, casting people about

Off I drifted onto the sea with just glimpse of you 

The light on the shore

I longed for the pleasures of the world

Work, money, success and more

I did not have courage of the great king Solomon

Only asking for to know right from wrong

The more the waves of the sea churned

 The emptiness in my soul burned

Finally left on the waves without an oar 

Needing desperately to get back to shore

It was You I was looking for

The Light, the Answer

You guided me to open the shell, to find the jewel

My soul now enlightened I opened it, no longer the fool

Where can I find more of this truth I pondered

No longer the youth who aimlessly wandered

I found Him who loves me so

Who never left me despite me thinking so

He who guides me even when I veer astray

He who takes my hand leading me through the fray

He is treasure in the field

His love boundless without yield

The treasure in the chest, the fish in the net

His being is forever set