Pretty Seedy!1/31/2020 Friday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time/ Memorial of Don Bosco
Today’s scriptures are pretty “seedy” in both senses of the word. The Gospel is rife with seed references. “The kingdom of God is like a man who scatters seed…. The kingdom of God is like a mustard seed….” And then there is the “seedy” story of David and the extent to which he goes to fulfill his desires for Bathsheba, sending Uriah to the front lines to have him killed. David may not be “going to seed” in a physical sense but he certainly is in the moral sense. Is this an example of “pulp-non-fiction?” The “seedy” story of David has a “soapy” feel to it. It reminds me of the soap opera genre, especially “telenovelas.” (Today’s first reading does refer to David waking from a “siesta” so the connection may not be too far out!) Although my mother watched As the World Turns, Guiding Light, All My Children etc. I never watched any of these growing up. As an adult trying to improve Spanish comprehension, I began watching Mexican Telenovelas “con gusto.” One of the things that distinguishes them is that the characters are either good or evil. There are heros/heroines and there are villains. It’s rare to find a character that is both, good and bad. David is a biblical persona who reveals the complexity of human nature. He has many good qualities, but he is also responsible for great harm to others. In this story both Bathsheba and Uriah are his victims. He thinks only of the satisfaction of his own desires and not the havoc he is creating in others’ lives. And yet, he is still God’s chosen and anointed King. He has a special place in God’s heart despite the evil he has done. I think that can give us hope when we doubt that God can love us unconditionally. Even though, David will suffer and pay the price for his misdeeds, God does not withdraw his love for him. The other “seedy” part of the scripture is meant to instill hope in us as well. Jesus describes the kingdom of God as unfolding mysteriously and in invisible ways, similarly to the way a seed grows and produces a harvest or a bush that is a source of shelter for many. I wonder if the scripture doesn’t invite us to think about the seeds we have sown throughout our lives. They may be seeds of faith, hope and love that we have planted in our families, our communities, our workplaces. Often, we do not get to see the fruit that comes from those seeds but hopefully we know that in some ways “as small as a mustard seed” our lives do make a difference. Don Bosco planted a seed of hope for the education of young boys over a century ago and that seed has had a rich harvest in all who have received education from the Salesians in their schools. It is fitting that someone whose name is Bosco has his memorial today when the reading is about the mustard seed and the bush that comes from it. Bosco, in Italian is a word for wood but it’s origins are similar to the English word for “bush.”
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Sitting Pretty.....1/30/2020 Thursday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time
After Nathan had spoken to King David, the king went in and sat before the LORD and said, “Who am I, Lord GOD, and who are the members of my house, that you have brought me to this point? Yet even this you see as too little, Lord GOD; you have also spoken of the house of your servant for a long time to come: this too you have shown to me, Lord GOD! David is “sitting pretty” as we’ve been hearing. He’s God’s favorite, the anointed king, a great warrior, a good dancer, and has received a promise of eternal faithfulness for his “house.” At the moment, he’s “sittin’ on top of his world.” (Just wait until tomorrow!) The photo above is one of the favorite “sitting pretty” places in the retreat house. It’s where the tabernacle sits on a pedestal with the vista of creation as its background. Throughout the day, so many retreatants come to “sit before the Lord” as David did. It’s then and there that we have the opportunity to speak with God, sitting there, pretty faith-filled or doubtful, joyful or troubled, peaceful or restless etc. What matters is taking the time to “sit before the Lord.” What is so engaging about this place is that you have the “little house” for the reserved Eucharist and the “big house” of Creation, both visible and revealing different aspects of God’s self-communication with us. If you look closely at the photo, however, you may notice that something is not right. I could ask “what’s wrong with this picture?” The answer is that the sanctuary lamp has burned out. There is the tradition of a lamp burning whenever the Eucharist is reserved. I suppose it’s a way of saying “Lights on. Jesus must be home.” As Jesus says in today’s Gospel, “Is a lamp brought in to be placed under a bushel basket or under a bed, and not to be placed on a lampstand? For there is nothing hidden except to be made visible; nothing is secret except to come to light.” This led me to search for lamps in biblical times. They were made of clay, earthen vessels filled with olive oil and a wick for burning. Hmmm, aren’t we like those earthen vessels whose wicks need to be trimmed and whose oil needs to be replenished if our inner light is going to shine? Like the sanctuary lamp that was burned out this morning, do we let ourselves “burn out” and neglect our need to “sit before the Lord.” Hopefully, then we can be “sitting pretty” once again. Fir Ever1/29/2020 Wednesday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time
The photo above was supposed to be used to illustrate the "lamp" in the next day's readings. Somehow, it replaced the "cedar chest" which somehow mysteriously replaced the photo of the "Cedar of Lebanon." One reader, Ann was able to see them all! The photo above is a chest made from cedar. The scripture today speaks of a house for God made of cedar which was one of the woods common for house building. The cedar tree is a conifer, an evergreen. In all my wanderings everywhere among the children of Israel, did I ever utter a word to any one of the judges whom I charged to tend my people Israel, to ask: Why have you not built me a house of cedar?’ The writer of this passage uses the word “beth” (house) to mean more than the physical structure made of cedar. The passage goes on to speak of creating a “house of David” that will be forever. Your house and your kingdom shall endure forever before me; your throne shall stand firm forever.’” What is most striking about this passage is that it speaks of a new kind of covenant with the people of Israel. This covenant is unconditional. It does not depend on Israel’s fidelity to the law but rather it is God’s fidelity to the people, no matter what their faults or failings. The Mosaic covenant was conditional. “If you follow my commandments, you will be my people and I will be your God.” The Davidic covenant is revelatory of a God who is unconditional love. I remember growing up that we had a number of “cedar chests” in our home. It was where certain items were stored that needed to be protected and preserved. It also had a wonderful aroma. They were also referred to as “hope chests.” So, cedar is a firtree, an ever green that is sometimes used for houses but also for “hope.” Hence the title, “Fir Ever” The covenant that God makes with us is “forever” and is meant to preserve our hope, our faith and our love. What a Whirl!1/28/2020 Tuesday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary Time/ memorial of Thomas Aquinas Thank God for this passage in the 2nd book of Samuel which chronicles David’s dancing before the Ark of God. As someone who has spent most of his life trying to defend dance as a form of religious expression, I would have had a more difficult challenge had it not been for David. Yes, there are a few references in the Psalms but here’s David, the King, leaping and dancing in religious ecstasy. And of course, there are always critics when it comes to dance as part of public worship and prayer. David’s wife, Michal takes him to task for this public display. His only defense is that he was dancing for the Lord. Here’s what came to me as a prayed with this very familiar passage. What a Whirl! Ark advancing El Shaddai, Shy, yet asking Shall we waltz, King? or two-step or tango or try a tarantella? Shall we dance, King? And I, David answer with abandon, Ah! Yes! Today shall be our dancing day! David dancing, whirling, dervish-like bowing, bending, arc-like arms akimbo, swinging, swirling swaying in ecstasy, entranced. Suffice it to say, shamelessly. David dancing A warrior waltzing A leader leaping A Kingpin spinning, twisting, turning, casting care to the wind, carried away. clad only in ephod baring his body and soul to the whirl, for all to see. Suffice it to say, seamlessly. Watching from a window Michal sees and scorns the dancer and the dance. She cries and crows, How humiliating! How undignified! Your kingly bearing betrayed, barely clad, cavorting, leaping like a gazelle, A dancing King disgraced! Suffice it to say shamefully! David divining son Solomon’s song, “My lover leaps gazelle-like.” David rejoining, “Praise God in the festive dance!” David rejoicing “with timbrel and dance” Suffice it to say, What a Whirl! Mourning Sky1/27/2020 Monday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary Time
Does it seem to you like this morning’s sky is in mourning? Or am I just seeing things? Am I projecting people’s grief on a screen that shows so little color and light and is dominated by swirling clouds? There is much to mourn this morning. The untimely and tragic death of Kobe Bryant, his daughter and their friends may be at the top of many people’s list of reasons for mourning because of his celebrity and the loss of young lives. And yet, we all have our reasons for mourning. It’s not only the loss of loved ones that is a cause for grieving, it’s everything that creates division among all who share a common humanity that makes for mourning. As Jesus says in today’s Gospel from Mark If a kingdom (country) is divided against itself, that kingdom (country) cannot stand. And if a house (or Senate) is divided against itself, that house (or Senate) will not be able to stand. We pray, today, for consolation and strength for those who have lost loved ones, especially for the family and friends of Kobe Bryant. May we pray, as well, for a healing of divisions in our country and its leaders? As I contemplated the morning’s dark, foreboding sky, I realized that it mirrored my mourning many losses. I’m grateful that I waited to see the sky change and it gave me hope in the mist of the mourning. Casting Call1/26/2020 3rd Sunday of Ordinary Time
Casting Call seems an appropriate title for a reflection on the call of the disciples, most of whom were fishermen. If you have ever been involved with theater, you know what a casting call entails. There usually are a good number of performers who come armed with their “head shots” and their resumés in the hopes that they will be chosen. One of the best examples of a casting call in the theater takes place at the beginning of the musical, “A Chorus Line.” They sing “I Hope I Get It!” One of the most poignant lines sung by Paul is “Who am I anyway? Am I my resumé? That is a picture of a person I don’t know. What does he want from me? What should I try to be? So many faces all around, and here we go.” What strikes me about the call of the disciples is that there is no audition for the role. The call is offered by Jesus and they are free to accept it. They don’t need a resumé of accomplishments. Nor do they need to hide behind a mask. Jesus goes right to the heart of the matter as he calls them. The irony, of course, is that even though most are fisherman, it’s Jesus who is casting the net. And he draws them into himself. We know the names of the “apostles” but Jesus cast the net and drew in so many more, women and men who chose to follow him. Most times when I have prayed or preached about this casting call, I ask the question, “What did those called see in Jesus? What was so compelling about the person of Jesus that they did not hesitate to leave their nets, tax tables, plow and home behind? What drew them to him in such a way that they left everything they were doing to follow him? This time, however, I’m thinking of the opposite question. “What did Jesus see in each one called that he didn’t need to interview them or have them audition to see if they were right for the role of disciple. To say that his divine nature tipped him off and told him who to choose would not do him justice. Rather, using his human instinct, he must have seen something in each to want them to be with him in his mission. The question for you and me, today, is, “What does Jesus see in me that he calls me to be with him?” He must know my flaws and failings. He must know that I’m more than my resumé. Hopefully, he sees more in me than I see in myself. Without an audition, without having to prove ourselves, Jesus calls. He does not cast us off for any reason. He’s casting us in the mold made in his image. The cast iron-y of the call is that Jesus trusts us and is faithful, even when we are not. The other question for you and me, today, is, “What do I have to leave behind to follow Jesus?” Is it my doubts and fears that I’m not worthy to be with him? Is it some “demon” inside of me that cries, “What have you to do with me, Jesus of Nazareth? I know who you are!” (Remember that Jesus excelled at casting out demons!) Returning to “I Hope I Get It,” the reality is that we already have been cast, not in a lead role but in a supporting one. We don’t have to be the star, just follow the star. Many years ago, I learned how to knit. I even succeeded in knitting a pair of leg warmers for the dance classes I was taking. I was very proud of myself but, honestly, I do knot know how to “cast on, knit and purl” anymore. I do hope I can leave you in stitches when you see the photos of the geese above and below. As I passed them by yesterday as I was reflecting on the “casting call,” I couldn’t help thinking that that’s what they were waiting for. Looks like some of them were cast in ‘A Canada Geese Line.” This would be the finale. (Oie is the French for Goose!) Oie! singular sensation every palmate step she takes Oie! Thrilling combination every waddle she makes Oie! Honk and suddenly nobody else will do You know you’ll never be gaggling with you know who! Oie! Moment in her presence and you can forget the rest For the goose is second best to none, son Oooh! Oie!, give her your attention. Do I really have to mention? Oie’s the One! Yes I am a silly goose! Strike or Spare?1/24/2020 Friday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time
Today's scripture from the book of Samuel has David choosing whether to strike Saul and take his life or spare him. This led me to write "Bowled Over." Bowled Over For Jack LaBonte (teacher, mentor, friend) I had hoped To be bowled over By this morning’s sunrise A striking setting Not sparing its beauty Just for me I had hoped To be knocked down like ten pins allaying my fears that I am only spare change, pocket-money amounting to little Who does not hope to count for more? I had hoped To be bowled over By streaks of color Alley ways crossing Always more and more Striking but I was spared the vision Nothing notable Everything ordinary Nothing dawning Do I count for so little? I had hoped To remember this moment Engrave it my memory Time and tide stopping Waiting for one to see And then it dawned My memory banks Saving me from forgetting, Striking a chord Not sparing a moment In time and life’s tide Knocking me down Waves of what was crashing over me. “rhododactulos “ remembered! rosy-fingered dawn’s epithet, Seeing now What Homer saw Centuries ago. I remember a young boy Learning life’s lessons (It was Greek to me) An old man Lending an ear To hear the dawn Singing. Here's the "rosy-fingered dawn" I saw S(a)ul King1/23/2020 Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time
King Saul has been center stage in the scriptures for the past week. His has been the leading role. For while he was God’s favorite, the newly anointed King but then he falls out of favor. He is rejected by God, shunted aside and now plays a “supporting” role that is anything but! Saul is consumed my jealousy as he sees God’s favor turn towards David. (God does seem to be very fickle!) You can imagine King Saul, sulking after he hears the refrain of the women who sing David’s praises in today’s scriptures. “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens thousands.” The rejection that Saul experienced is only worsened as he sees David’s successes as well as his winning the affection of Saul’s son, Jonathan. One thing after another rubs salt in Saul’s wounds. Sulking is a fitting description of Saul, King of Israel. What does the story of Saul say to you? As I have been praying with it this week, it helps me to recognize by own woundedness stemming from feelings of rejection and failure. This can easily lead to “sulking,” and not recognizing the grace that so often stems from one’s vulnerability. It’s interesting how “wounded” an “vulnerable” have different emphases; wounded is negative, vulnerable is in some sense positive. Vulnerable comes from the Latin word for “wound” which is “vulnus.” Is it fair to say that when you’re wounded, it’s the pain that draws your attention and creates an inward focus? When you’re vulnerable, there may be an outward focus that comes from your willingness to let others see your pain in a way that shows that it does not absorb or define you. The photo above speaks to me of the vulnerability of the single tree with its bare branches against the beautiful backdrop of the sky. It has to go through this time of nakedness, stripped of all if it’s going to be-leave again in its own goodness. May I finish this reflection with a Mary Oliver poem? I GO DOWN TO THE SHORE I go down to the shore in the morning and depending on the hour the waves are rolling in or moving out, and I say, oh, I am miserable, what shall-- what should I do? And the sea says in its lovely voice: Excuse me, I have work to do. So much for sulking! Grief's Engraving1/22/2020 Wednesday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time
As I prayed this morning I thought how “grief” links yesterday and today’s scriptures. “The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve for Saul?” “Looking around at them with anger and grieved at their hardness of heart, Jesus said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” The grieving that these passages speak of are not the same as the intense grief that accompanies the loss of a loved one. Nor is it the same as a grief that comes from other kinds of life’s losses. (Do I need to name them?) Recently, when I was speaking with a friend who is grieving the sudden and unexpected loss of her son, I spoke of a substratum of grief that is always there, even as we try to move on and live a “normal” life. Grief wells up from the depths of our being. We know where it comes from and we cannot control it. This is the kind of grief that is engraved in our hearts. And like an engraving, it is not easily removed. It is meant to last and not be worn away. My reflections on grief this morning, led me to read an article that appeared in the New Yorker Magazine in 2010. It’s entitled “Good Grief” https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2010/02/01/good-grief It’s a lengthy article that tries to summarize some of the contemporary attitudes toward grieving the loss of a loved one. It acknowledges that the classic 5 steps of Elizabeth Kubla Ross do not really capture the essence and “messiness” of the grieving process. There is no timeline and the “stages,” although helpful for some do not apply to everyone. As for grieving, one size does not fit all. The article ends with lines from an Emily Dickinson Poem “I Measure Every Grief I Meet.” After I read the poem it in its entirety, I felt that the article was worth reading since it “linked” me to the poet’s grief and reminded me that when we grieve, although we may feel grief as a solitary experience, we are not alone. I measure every Grief I meet With narrow, probing, eyes- I wonder if it weighs like Mine-- Or has an Easier size. I wonder if they bore it long-- Or did it just begin-- I could not tell the Date of Mine-- It feel so old a pain-- I wonder if it hurts to live-- And if They have to try And whether—could they choose between-- It would not be—to die. I note that Some—gone patient long-- At length, renew their smile-- An imitation of a Light That had so little Oil-- I wonder if when Years have piled-- Some Thousands –on the Harm-- That hurt them early—such a lapse Could give them any Balm-- Or would they go on aching still Through Centuries of Nerve-- Enlightened to a larger Pain-- In Contrast with the Love The grieved—are many—I am told-- There is the various Cause-- Death – is but one—and comes but once-- And only nails the eyes-- There’s Grief of Want—and grief of Cold-- A sort they call “Despair”-- There’s Banishment from native Eyes-- In sight of Native Air-- And though I may not guess the kind-- Correctly—yet to me A piercing Comfort it affords In passing Calvary-- To note the fashions – of the Cross And how they’re mostly worn- Still fascinated to presume That Some—are like my own-- Those who have been to Eastern Point have most likely seen the Stations of the Cross, engraved in metal that are located on a walking path through the woods. Because they are exposed to the elements, you can see how rusty they are, yet they speak powerfully, not only of Christ’s suffering but the grief that is engraved on each and every human heart. Fizzy to Fizzle? Use Hues!1/21/2020 Tuesday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time
The other day I was waiting for sunrise and decided that the moment wasn’t worth waiting for. It was going to be one of those “ordinary” sunrises. “Nothing special,” I said to myself and walked away. I had to open the doors in another section of the house and then I noticed how a change of perspective enabled me to see the hues of sunrise ablaze with color. Had I not changed my vantage point, I would have missed something beautiful and memorable. Simple lesson? Sometimes you have to look at things from a different angle. Yesterday’s reflection/ poem left me feeling depleted. That happens sometimes after a creative burst. You go from “bubbly” to “flat” From fizzy to fizzle. My intent this morning was to write about Saul, (The title would be SeeSaul) but I was getting nowhere. Who knows, that may be for tomorrow since Saul is an important personage in the scripture this week. But sometimes the creative juices just don’t flow. So, if you are like me, “fizzled out” with energy “used up,” perhaps using hues that “sizzle” will help your energy “blaze” again. AuthorAs an ordained Catholic priest for 45 years and a member of the Jesuits for 57 years, I've had a great deal of "spiritual" experience! This is a place where I can continue to share my thoughts about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit and what it means to live the "mystery of God." Categories |
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