Pastor’s Pen
FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Dear Church Family,
The reading from St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, where love is described, is a passage often used at marriages. As you read that, especially the part that says, “Love is patient, love is kind, etc.”, say your own name, saying you are patient, you are kind, you are not jealous, you are not pompous, you are not inflated, you are not rude, etc. It’s a good spiritual prayer but it is not easy to do these things. How many of us run into difficulty when we try to put our interests aside for someone or something else? It is difficult to be humble and accepting. Paul tells us, “Love endures all” because love comes from God and His love endures forever.
The Word of God today can rest in our hearts. Jeremiah is told by the Lord that he is especially chosen. “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you.” Because of our Christian calling, I think it’s good to see ourselves also called like Jeremiah. Then our response would automatically be as the psalmist in Psalm 71 says, “On You I depend. From my mother’s womb You are my strength. You will rescue me. You will be my rock, my refuge, my stronghold to give safety even in times of rejection.” That is a powerful message! We know that Jesus is going to be rejected, but what a trail He left behind! A question we should all ask ourselves is, “Am I leaving a trail for which I will be remembered?” The prophet Jeremiah tells us that the Lord knew us even before we were conceived in the womb. Because of His ageless love and knowledge of us, the Lord becomes our permanent protector and companion. It is comforting for me to know that I’m not fighting these battles alone.
May our God continue to fill you with His grace and love!
Fr. Bob
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