In today’s first reading, Isaiah says “As nurslings, you shall be carried in her arms, and fondled in her lap; as a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; in Jerusalem you shall find your comfort.” This poignantly reminds us of what Jesus said “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, killing the prophets and stoning those who are sent to you! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you would not!” (Matt 23:37)
Psalm 66 talks about the mighty deeds of the Lord. The last strophe says, “Hear now, all you who fear God, while I declare what he has done for me.” Do we declare and proclaim what the Lord has done for us? Grace is given us in our trials to overcome temptation, anxiety, anger, all the things that keep us “out of peace” with God and neighbor. Have we shared events in our lives with others that demonstrate God’s goodness to us?
The Gospel in the Letter of Saint Paul to the Galatians (6:14-18) teaches that God gives us the power through the Holy Spirit to love others. When we are a “new creation” in Christ (Gal.6:15), we have the power of the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:16-26) to move away from our own self-centeredness and to think of others.
Mrs. Peggy Brechtel, OP
