As usual, I had another very busy week, capped off by a hectic weekend. This weekend I assisted at several Masses but was not on homily duty. Instead, I caught a homily from a Catholic pastor in New England, Fr. Austin Fleming. Using the Gospel from St. Luke where Jesus assured His followers that He is not a ghost, we again are given another example of Jesus coming to us, to strengthen our faith.
Fr. Austin asks the question, how many times in the past week did the risen Christ appear to you and me? It is a solid question that all of us should ponder. Fr. Austin put it like this: “Jesus lives in those we love and those we don’t love. He lives in the young and in the old and in those not yet born. Who knows how many times in the past week did the risen Christ appear to you and me and ask, in some way, for something to eat, something to drink, for some gesture on our part that we recognize Him”.
This caused me today to think and reflect on the week gone by. On Wednesday night, I was at Rayburn prison for my usual visit and Communion service. There were many new faces in the room tonight seeking Him and beginning the process of humbling self and seeking truth. On this night, something directed me to the infirmary where one inmate asked for prayers and a blessing as he was recovering from an operation. And then on my drive home, I stopped for a drink, mostly to have something to do for the last 25 miles or so. To my total surprise in walks one of the men from Rayburn. He recognized me as I recognized him. There was no fear or anxiety, simply joy at seeing one of the “parishioners” from our faith community on the “outside”. He assured me of being on the right path; a job, family support, seeking the local Catholic Church in town. But right there, in front of the store, he humbly asked for prayers and blessings that he would stay strong, avoid temptation and remain faithful to the Gospel. Yes, how many times in the past week did He appear to me?
That may be the most profound example. As I continued to reflect on the week past, I recalled someone seeking to make sense of ongoing marital issues, another just trying to get through a tough life-changing event, still another wanting prayers for a coworker facing a terminal illness, someone mourning the loss of a loved one. Then there were the excited faces of almost forty children receiving Jesus in Holy Communion for the first time. Yes, how many times in the past week did He appear to me?
In simple ways too, He comes to us. Just spending time with my daughter home for the weekend from college, sharing a laugh or holding hands with my wife, the handshake or sincere hug of a dear friend, going to a restaurant for lunch and being seated next to old family friends not seen in almost ten years, caring for others and knowing others care for you. Yes, how many times in the past week did He appear to me?
How many times in the past week did He appear to you?
And what about the week ahead? Will you be looking for Him, seeking Him, recognizing Him?
After all He is not a ghost; He is truly risen!
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever!
Deacon Mike.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Sunday, April 19, 2009
How God speaks to us...
When we need it most, in most unusual ways, when we least expect it, through others, in good times, all the time, in bad times, in Church, in the store, when I’m alone, quietly, reassuringly, lovingly, hopefully, through friends, even strangers, in prison, as a Father, with understanding, compassion, with mercy, comforting, last night, today, through a child, always…
I’ve been listening lately; hearing Him.
When you stop to hear the Father talking to you, when you ponder how much He loves you, there is a fullness I can’t really explain.
Today I held a baby boy in my arms, standing before Jesus in prayer at the Tabernacle. He had just become a new creation in Baptism; water from the Easter vigil poured by a humble servant with ever so slightly trembling hands. This was one of the most profound moments of my young diaconate. And I could hear God speaking to me. No audible voice, no private revelation, nonetheless I was listening today.
In my baptism homily, I spoke about birthdays and how all of us, once baptized, have a “church” birthday too. Of course all of us can name our birthday, but who among us knows the date of our baptism. To illustrate the point, I asked a child, to tell me her birthday. She replied, March 12th. March 12th, I asked her, almost in unbelief. You see, March 12th is the birthday of my mom, who has been gone now for two years. In fact, it will be two years this very week.
On the first occasion to baptize a beautiful child, on this special day when a beautiful sacrament was celebrated in the Church, He speaks to me of my mom, who as time goes by, is not in my thoughts as much as she should be.
Mom almost made it to see her only son ordained and even though I realize she was with me on December 13th, how awesome it would have been to have her physically with me. So how beautifully remarkable I am reminded of her presence with me on this most unforgettable day of my young diaconia.
That family and that strikingly handsome, healthy little boy will never fully realize the role they played today in drawing me even closer to the Father. And what a beautiful memory to instill in me as the Baptism proceeded; my sweet yet always vulnerable mom, who lived her life only wanting good things for her three children.
Just as Jesus came to Thomas in today’s Gospel reading to quell his doubts, allay his fears, and strengthens his faith, God is always talking to us, coming to us to strengthen us in relationship with Him.
Thank you God for helping me realize today that you are always talking to me and have no doubt, your servant is always listening. Help me to hear clearly your will for me.
Give thanks to the Lord for He is good; His mercy endures forever; alleluia.
A humble yet grateful servant.
I’ve been listening lately; hearing Him.
When you stop to hear the Father talking to you, when you ponder how much He loves you, there is a fullness I can’t really explain.
Today I held a baby boy in my arms, standing before Jesus in prayer at the Tabernacle. He had just become a new creation in Baptism; water from the Easter vigil poured by a humble servant with ever so slightly trembling hands. This was one of the most profound moments of my young diaconate. And I could hear God speaking to me. No audible voice, no private revelation, nonetheless I was listening today.
In my baptism homily, I spoke about birthdays and how all of us, once baptized, have a “church” birthday too. Of course all of us can name our birthday, but who among us knows the date of our baptism. To illustrate the point, I asked a child, to tell me her birthday. She replied, March 12th. March 12th, I asked her, almost in unbelief. You see, March 12th is the birthday of my mom, who has been gone now for two years. In fact, it will be two years this very week.
On the first occasion to baptize a beautiful child, on this special day when a beautiful sacrament was celebrated in the Church, He speaks to me of my mom, who as time goes by, is not in my thoughts as much as she should be.
Mom almost made it to see her only son ordained and even though I realize she was with me on December 13th, how awesome it would have been to have her physically with me. So how beautifully remarkable I am reminded of her presence with me on this most unforgettable day of my young diaconia.
That family and that strikingly handsome, healthy little boy will never fully realize the role they played today in drawing me even closer to the Father. And what a beautiful memory to instill in me as the Baptism proceeded; my sweet yet always vulnerable mom, who lived her life only wanting good things for her three children.
Just as Jesus came to Thomas in today’s Gospel reading to quell his doubts, allay his fears, and strengthens his faith, God is always talking to us, coming to us to strengthen us in relationship with Him.
Thank you God for helping me realize today that you are always talking to me and have no doubt, your servant is always listening. Help me to hear clearly your will for me.
Give thanks to the Lord for He is good; His mercy endures forever; alleluia.
A humble yet grateful servant.
This is my body
A great prolife song contrasting pro-abortion mentality with the sacrifice of Jesus. Poignant as we continue this Easter season! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2reg0ESJUpE
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Homily for Divine Mercy Sunday
Homily April 19, 2009
Based on Gospel of John 20:19-31
& Divine Mercy Sunday
Who among us has never uttered these phrases: “I have my doubts” or “I doubt it”?
Let me share two examples with you. In 1980 I tuned in to watch a little Winter Olympics on TV. The big event that day was a hockey game between a young inexperienced American squad and the highly regarded Soviet national team. The Americans were made up of young college kids with no international experience. The Soviets were highly skilled, experienced athletes, with many years together and plenty of international games under their belt. Needless to say, the Soviets were heavy favorites. In fact, just two weeks earlier, in an exhibition, the Soviets handily defeated the upstart Americans, 10-3; that’s like 80-0 in football!
So, I, and many, many others watched as the game began, having our collective doubts. We all know what happened; playing like they had never played before, the Americans stunned the sports world with a 4-3 victory. Do you believe in miracles?
Fast forward some 29 years to our present time and let’s talk about Susan Boyle. Susan has the most popular video on the internet right now of a stunning performance from a TV reality show in Britain. You see, Susan, unlike all the “serious” contestants is middle aged, unspectacular in appearance and admitted beforehand an unassuming life, a simple humble life of caring for aging, ill parents. Her dedication to her parents resulted in few friends, no opportunity for a relationship, in fact
she admits she has never been kissed, and unemployment from putting her parents first.
The video is stunning. Why? In part, because at first, the judges, staff and audience are making fun of her, her looks and her life story. They are expressing their doubts, in words and actions directly to her face. Susan just stands there and politely takes it.
When she announces she is going to sing a beautiful song, I Dreamed a Dream from Les Miserables, everyone laughed. I guess they had their doubts.
Susan’s musical rendition was stunning. An audience, laughing and mocking her, is now on their feet, cheering. The judges are stunned, some in tears. I must admit, as I watched the video, it had an impact on me.
Doubt, in both these examples, was transformed into joy, happiness, even faith.
So, I ask this morning, do we still have our doubts about our faith? Do we still doubt the Divine Mercy of our Resurrected Lord? Are we a “doubting Thomas” and if so, is that necessarily all bad?
This reading from John is given to us by the Church, every year on this day, the 2nd Sunday of Easter and what we now know as the Feast of Divine Mercy. How appropriate. The Gospel is really in two parts; the Easter evening appearance of Jesus to the 10 apostles gathered there and Jesus returning a week later when he meets up with Thomas. Let’s focus on the latter first.
Thomas has boldly declared earlier in the week that unless he see and touch the wounds in Jesus’ hands and side he would not believe that He was risen. He had his doubts! At first read, this almost comes across as a negative when we think about Thomas. But remember, he was simply not present the week before. Perhaps the other Apostles wanted to see His hand and side too. The Gospels don’t record this. Thomas wanted proof. And Jesus knew this, and again, as He so often did and still does, He humbled Himself, complied with Thomas’ request and helped him to believe. And believe he did; Thomas declares: my Lord and my God!!!
On second read, this does not seem so negative now. His doubts reveal a certain honesty; I just want to be sure! Thomas allowed his doubt to surrender completely to faith. And his faith leads to joy and happiness.
What does this mean to us on this Easter Octave? Do we have doubts? Do we see Jesus every time we come to Mass and witness, with our own eyes, the consecration of bread and wine? When the bread and wine are lifted high, when the bells ring behind the altar, do we see Jesus and do we declare: “my Lord and my God.” Do we trust the great gift Jesus left us, the Church? Do we understand the role of the Magisterium, our beloved Pope in union with the college of Bishops, who guide and teach us how to grow in faith? And if we do have these doubts, will we be open to allow Jesus to come to us, like He came to Thomas and helped his unbelief. Are our doubts a result of our pride and stubbornness or can they, like Thomas, be a path to a deeper, more intimate personal relationship with Him.
In the first part of the Gospel, we read of the Easter night scene of Jesus, with the 10, as Jesus breathes on them and gives them the power to remit or retain sin. Why does Jesus breathe on them? Remember the creation story, Genesis, when God created man, He breathed on His creation. He gave them His Spirit. On Easter night, Jesus breathes on the Apostles, he brings alive the New Creation, He gives them His Spirit.
And what is at the center of this New Creation; it is the forgiveness of sin; it is His Divine Mercy!!! And we realize that it is Jesus who forgives sin, it is Jesus who dispenses mercy. But we read right here in John, that it is through his Apostles that the message of mercy goes forth and it is through the Apostles that Jesus forgives sin. If we are to believe all that Jesus said and did, then we are to believe, all these years later, that Jesus still forgives sins and still dispenses mercy. But if we fall prey to the beliefs not contained in the teaching of our church, then this mercy and forgiveness would have died with the death of the last Apostle. Where would be hope? How desperate would be our doubt?
But we know that Jesus gave us apostolic succession, and through the centuries raises up Bishops and Priests, who in the faith tradition of the Apostles, and the Sacrament of Confession and Anointing of the Sick, forgive sins, in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. And we receive His mercy; for His mercy endures forever.
And on this great feast of Divine Mercy, He gives us the Apostle of Mercy, Saint Faustina Kowalska who revealed Divine Mercy to the world. It was our great Pope, John Paul II who embraced this message of mercy, declared this 2nd Sunday of Easter as Divine Mercy Sunday and canonized Faustina. For the sake of His sorrowful passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world!
An ice hockey game and a reality TV internet sensation allowed me to see doubt transform into faith, happiness and joy!
In our Risen Lord, in His Body & Blood, in His sacraments, yes, in the teaching authority of the Church, our doubt fades into joyful belief as we confidently proclaim:
“Jesus, I trust in you!” No doubt about it!!!
Based on Gospel of John 20:19-31
& Divine Mercy Sunday
Who among us has never uttered these phrases: “I have my doubts” or “I doubt it”?
Let me share two examples with you. In 1980 I tuned in to watch a little Winter Olympics on TV. The big event that day was a hockey game between a young inexperienced American squad and the highly regarded Soviet national team. The Americans were made up of young college kids with no international experience. The Soviets were highly skilled, experienced athletes, with many years together and plenty of international games under their belt. Needless to say, the Soviets were heavy favorites. In fact, just two weeks earlier, in an exhibition, the Soviets handily defeated the upstart Americans, 10-3; that’s like 80-0 in football!
So, I, and many, many others watched as the game began, having our collective doubts. We all know what happened; playing like they had never played before, the Americans stunned the sports world with a 4-3 victory. Do you believe in miracles?
Fast forward some 29 years to our present time and let’s talk about Susan Boyle. Susan has the most popular video on the internet right now of a stunning performance from a TV reality show in Britain. You see, Susan, unlike all the “serious” contestants is middle aged, unspectacular in appearance and admitted beforehand an unassuming life, a simple humble life of caring for aging, ill parents. Her dedication to her parents resulted in few friends, no opportunity for a relationship, in fact
she admits she has never been kissed, and unemployment from putting her parents first.
The video is stunning. Why? In part, because at first, the judges, staff and audience are making fun of her, her looks and her life story. They are expressing their doubts, in words and actions directly to her face. Susan just stands there and politely takes it.
When she announces she is going to sing a beautiful song, I Dreamed a Dream from Les Miserables, everyone laughed. I guess they had their doubts.
Susan’s musical rendition was stunning. An audience, laughing and mocking her, is now on their feet, cheering. The judges are stunned, some in tears. I must admit, as I watched the video, it had an impact on me.
Doubt, in both these examples, was transformed into joy, happiness, even faith.
So, I ask this morning, do we still have our doubts about our faith? Do we still doubt the Divine Mercy of our Resurrected Lord? Are we a “doubting Thomas” and if so, is that necessarily all bad?
This reading from John is given to us by the Church, every year on this day, the 2nd Sunday of Easter and what we now know as the Feast of Divine Mercy. How appropriate. The Gospel is really in two parts; the Easter evening appearance of Jesus to the 10 apostles gathered there and Jesus returning a week later when he meets up with Thomas. Let’s focus on the latter first.
Thomas has boldly declared earlier in the week that unless he see and touch the wounds in Jesus’ hands and side he would not believe that He was risen. He had his doubts! At first read, this almost comes across as a negative when we think about Thomas. But remember, he was simply not present the week before. Perhaps the other Apostles wanted to see His hand and side too. The Gospels don’t record this. Thomas wanted proof. And Jesus knew this, and again, as He so often did and still does, He humbled Himself, complied with Thomas’ request and helped him to believe. And believe he did; Thomas declares: my Lord and my God!!!
On second read, this does not seem so negative now. His doubts reveal a certain honesty; I just want to be sure! Thomas allowed his doubt to surrender completely to faith. And his faith leads to joy and happiness.
What does this mean to us on this Easter Octave? Do we have doubts? Do we see Jesus every time we come to Mass and witness, with our own eyes, the consecration of bread and wine? When the bread and wine are lifted high, when the bells ring behind the altar, do we see Jesus and do we declare: “my Lord and my God.” Do we trust the great gift Jesus left us, the Church? Do we understand the role of the Magisterium, our beloved Pope in union with the college of Bishops, who guide and teach us how to grow in faith? And if we do have these doubts, will we be open to allow Jesus to come to us, like He came to Thomas and helped his unbelief. Are our doubts a result of our pride and stubbornness or can they, like Thomas, be a path to a deeper, more intimate personal relationship with Him.
In the first part of the Gospel, we read of the Easter night scene of Jesus, with the 10, as Jesus breathes on them and gives them the power to remit or retain sin. Why does Jesus breathe on them? Remember the creation story, Genesis, when God created man, He breathed on His creation. He gave them His Spirit. On Easter night, Jesus breathes on the Apostles, he brings alive the New Creation, He gives them His Spirit.
And what is at the center of this New Creation; it is the forgiveness of sin; it is His Divine Mercy!!! And we realize that it is Jesus who forgives sin, it is Jesus who dispenses mercy. But we read right here in John, that it is through his Apostles that the message of mercy goes forth and it is through the Apostles that Jesus forgives sin. If we are to believe all that Jesus said and did, then we are to believe, all these years later, that Jesus still forgives sins and still dispenses mercy. But if we fall prey to the beliefs not contained in the teaching of our church, then this mercy and forgiveness would have died with the death of the last Apostle. Where would be hope? How desperate would be our doubt?
But we know that Jesus gave us apostolic succession, and through the centuries raises up Bishops and Priests, who in the faith tradition of the Apostles, and the Sacrament of Confession and Anointing of the Sick, forgive sins, in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. And we receive His mercy; for His mercy endures forever.
And on this great feast of Divine Mercy, He gives us the Apostle of Mercy, Saint Faustina Kowalska who revealed Divine Mercy to the world. It was our great Pope, John Paul II who embraced this message of mercy, declared this 2nd Sunday of Easter as Divine Mercy Sunday and canonized Faustina. For the sake of His sorrowful passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world!
An ice hockey game and a reality TV internet sensation allowed me to see doubt transform into faith, happiness and joy!
In our Risen Lord, in His Body & Blood, in His sacraments, yes, in the teaching authority of the Church, our doubt fades into joyful belief as we confidently proclaim:
“Jesus, I trust in you!” No doubt about it!!!
Monday, April 13, 2009
8 is Enough
Happy Easter! I know it's Monday but it's still Easter. The great feast of feasts, Easter, the Day of the Resurrection, is celebrated by the Church as an octave. That simply means for all of us that Easter is too glorious, too joyful that one day simply can't contain it. So everyday from Easter Sunday until next Sunday is Easter.
If you go to Mass any day this week, Easter is celebrated.
And if 8 days is not enough for the celebration of our Lord's victory over death and sin, how about a season that lasts 50 days. From now to Pentecost Sunday, we will remain in the Easter season.
So celebrate the joy of the Resurrection, glory in the Risen Lord and wish Easter blessings to someone this week!!
If you go to Mass any day this week, Easter is celebrated.
And if 8 days is not enough for the celebration of our Lord's victory over death and sin, how about a season that lasts 50 days. From now to Pentecost Sunday, we will remain in the Easter season.
So celebrate the joy of the Resurrection, glory in the Risen Lord and wish Easter blessings to someone this week!!
Amazing & inspirational
Please watch the entire video; her interview, her amazing performance, the reaction of judges and audience, their sincere comments, her glorious reaction...
I'll admit it; tears!
Some say never judge a book by its cover; Jesus would say: judge not!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY&feature=related
I'll admit it; tears!
Some say never judge a book by its cover; Jesus would say: judge not!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY&feature=related
Sunday, April 12, 2009
A personal Easter reflection
April 12th is an unforgettable day!
It started about six years ago. On an otherwise picture perfect Saturday, the sound of a siren pierced the quiet of my rural country neighborhood. My daughter and her friend, who had spent the night, did not notice the siren. But the phone call was alarming. Our house guest, all of about 14 years old was talking to her older sister, she could not wake up her daddy.
By the time we all arrived at the house, it was too late. Their dad, our friend, the neighbor everyone came to rely on for a helping hand, was gone. One of the first people I met in my Abita neighborhood, who helped me countless times, who loved for her daughter to play with mine, Wayne Tennyson was gone.
I still think about him, particularly on Saturday mornings, when he liked to take his old car to town to run errands. He loved his family, was a great husband and dad, loved his country home; you could tell by just driving by. He left us too early; on April 12, 2003.
Two years later, I received a most alarming phone call from the staff of one of the bank branches I assisted. Their manager was a no show, and he had an important meeting that day. They could not reach him by phone or cell. Where could he be? Normally, I would not have thought much of this, except Stephen Forer had been battling cancer and had chemotherapy treatments. One of the associates at the bank sent her husband to Stephen’s house. He called me and told me something was wrong. His car was home and an alarm clock was blaring in the bedroom. He broke into the home and found Stephen dead. Complications from his cancer treatment stopped his heart. Stephen was 23 or 24 years old. He was well liked by everyone, a Tulane graduate and a most devoted son to his mother.
I used to go to lunch with him a lot. He was one of the youngest people picked to be a bank manager and loved his job. Full of energy and enthusiasm, he battled his cancer with lots of dignity. He to left us too early, entirely too early on April 12, 2005.
For a couple of years, April 12th weighed heavily on me. Then, I guess like everything else, time heals. Last year, I got one more reminder, although much different. On an April 12th morning, a little past 6 in the morning, while preparing for a class day in my deacon formation, lightning struck. Literally! A freak bolt of lightning hit the tree next to the house ran across the roots and sent a huge dose of powerful electrical energy through my house. The flash and accompanying noise was enough to say something ain’t right here. But the quickly dying electrical appliances and my daughter running from her bedroom to say she had felt an electrical shock drove home the seriousness of the event.
Fortunately, Elizabeth was fine albeit shook up. The lightning strike fried almost everything; air conditioning system, computers, televisions, all kitchen appliances, phones, lamps, you name it. But I realized that it could have been worse; much worse. All the damaged goods were replaced, the house had no structural damage, and no one was hurt.
When I realized the date, April 12th, I must admit that I asked, “Why”? At this point, I’m wondering out loud what is the deal with this day. Is there a message in all of this?
I really did not get an answer, that is until this year. When I checked the calendar to see when April 12th would roll around in 2009, I could only smile when I saw April 12th would be Easter Sunday. I will remember April 12th now as the day we commemorate the Resurrection. April 12th is now associated with Easter joy and newness of life. April 12th is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.
And this is true of the April 12th’s of these past few years. Sure, I and many others miss Wayne and miss Stephen. We wonder what would have been. And I never want to go through another lightning strike but we survived, we managed to get everything fixed. Now looking back, these events only help me to realize that we are not in charge. This all belongs to God; this Earth, nature, His children, each and everyone of us. And we are called to live our lives for Him, realizing that this life is a dress rehersal for the life to come.
The happiness of the hope of an eternal life spent with God in Heaven is possible for all of us because Jesus died and then rose from death at that first Easter. His merciful act of love opens wide the door of paradise. We rejoice in this knowledge and we rejoice in our faith.
Yes, I will never forget April 12th and the life changing events I have witnessed in these past few years. But at least for now, April 12th will be a cause for great joy as I rejoice in the Resurrection of the Lord.
No matter what life throws at you, no matter how many times, rest in Jesus’ love and mercy. And remember, he died for you and rose to new life, so you and I may have new life too!!
May abundant Easter blessings remain with you throughout this 50 day season of Easter.
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today (April 12th) and forever,
Deacon Mike
It started about six years ago. On an otherwise picture perfect Saturday, the sound of a siren pierced the quiet of my rural country neighborhood. My daughter and her friend, who had spent the night, did not notice the siren. But the phone call was alarming. Our house guest, all of about 14 years old was talking to her older sister, she could not wake up her daddy.
By the time we all arrived at the house, it was too late. Their dad, our friend, the neighbor everyone came to rely on for a helping hand, was gone. One of the first people I met in my Abita neighborhood, who helped me countless times, who loved for her daughter to play with mine, Wayne Tennyson was gone.
I still think about him, particularly on Saturday mornings, when he liked to take his old car to town to run errands. He loved his family, was a great husband and dad, loved his country home; you could tell by just driving by. He left us too early; on April 12, 2003.
Two years later, I received a most alarming phone call from the staff of one of the bank branches I assisted. Their manager was a no show, and he had an important meeting that day. They could not reach him by phone or cell. Where could he be? Normally, I would not have thought much of this, except Stephen Forer had been battling cancer and had chemotherapy treatments. One of the associates at the bank sent her husband to Stephen’s house. He called me and told me something was wrong. His car was home and an alarm clock was blaring in the bedroom. He broke into the home and found Stephen dead. Complications from his cancer treatment stopped his heart. Stephen was 23 or 24 years old. He was well liked by everyone, a Tulane graduate and a most devoted son to his mother.
I used to go to lunch with him a lot. He was one of the youngest people picked to be a bank manager and loved his job. Full of energy and enthusiasm, he battled his cancer with lots of dignity. He to left us too early, entirely too early on April 12, 2005.
For a couple of years, April 12th weighed heavily on me. Then, I guess like everything else, time heals. Last year, I got one more reminder, although much different. On an April 12th morning, a little past 6 in the morning, while preparing for a class day in my deacon formation, lightning struck. Literally! A freak bolt of lightning hit the tree next to the house ran across the roots and sent a huge dose of powerful electrical energy through my house. The flash and accompanying noise was enough to say something ain’t right here. But the quickly dying electrical appliances and my daughter running from her bedroom to say she had felt an electrical shock drove home the seriousness of the event.
Fortunately, Elizabeth was fine albeit shook up. The lightning strike fried almost everything; air conditioning system, computers, televisions, all kitchen appliances, phones, lamps, you name it. But I realized that it could have been worse; much worse. All the damaged goods were replaced, the house had no structural damage, and no one was hurt.
When I realized the date, April 12th, I must admit that I asked, “Why”? At this point, I’m wondering out loud what is the deal with this day. Is there a message in all of this?
I really did not get an answer, that is until this year. When I checked the calendar to see when April 12th would roll around in 2009, I could only smile when I saw April 12th would be Easter Sunday. I will remember April 12th now as the day we commemorate the Resurrection. April 12th is now associated with Easter joy and newness of life. April 12th is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.
And this is true of the April 12th’s of these past few years. Sure, I and many others miss Wayne and miss Stephen. We wonder what would have been. And I never want to go through another lightning strike but we survived, we managed to get everything fixed. Now looking back, these events only help me to realize that we are not in charge. This all belongs to God; this Earth, nature, His children, each and everyone of us. And we are called to live our lives for Him, realizing that this life is a dress rehersal for the life to come.
The happiness of the hope of an eternal life spent with God in Heaven is possible for all of us because Jesus died and then rose from death at that first Easter. His merciful act of love opens wide the door of paradise. We rejoice in this knowledge and we rejoice in our faith.
Yes, I will never forget April 12th and the life changing events I have witnessed in these past few years. But at least for now, April 12th will be a cause for great joy as I rejoice in the Resurrection of the Lord.
No matter what life throws at you, no matter how many times, rest in Jesus’ love and mercy. And remember, he died for you and rose to new life, so you and I may have new life too!!
May abundant Easter blessings remain with you throughout this 50 day season of Easter.
Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today (April 12th) and forever,
Deacon Mike
Friday, April 10, 2009
Good Friday Reflection
From Luke 23:39-43
"Now one of the crimials hanging there reviled Jesus, saying 'Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us.' The other however, rebuking him, said in reply, 'Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal.' Then he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' He replied to him, 'Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.' "
Jesus died on this day, some 2,000 years ago so you and I may live, eternally, forever, with Him in Heaven. He came to us to save us. And we come to Him, return to Him, no matter why or when, He is ready to welcome us to Paradise. The good thief, named Dismas, came to Jesus in faith, literally hours before his death. For all of us, no matter how long its been, no matter how far we have strayed, we can still return to Jesus, we can still return to His church, we can hear, "welcome home" and "be with me this day in Paradise."
"Now one of the crimials hanging there reviled Jesus, saying 'Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us.' The other however, rebuking him, said in reply, 'Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal.' Then he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' He replied to him, 'Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.' "
Jesus died on this day, some 2,000 years ago so you and I may live, eternally, forever, with Him in Heaven. He came to us to save us. And we come to Him, return to Him, no matter why or when, He is ready to welcome us to Paradise. The good thief, named Dismas, came to Jesus in faith, literally hours before his death. For all of us, no matter how long its been, no matter how far we have strayed, we can still return to Jesus, we can still return to His church, we can hear, "welcome home" and "be with me this day in Paradise."
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Holy Thursday Homily
Homily for Holy Thursday
Gospel of John 13:1-15
Every year, when Christmas rolls around, I summon all the courage I can muster and venture to the mall. My mission: to find a great gift for my wife Wendy. After I find the perfect gift, I make a stop at the perfume counter and find one of her favorite fragrances. But I always look for the one that offers a free bonus gift. Yes, the Deacon is cheap. I have learned that at Christmas, you can get a free gift set, a travel case, or an extra bottle of perfume. Extra! Lagniappe!
We all like a little lagniappe; buy 1 get 1 free, 2 for 1, half price. We use coupons, gift certificates, sales flyers and newspaper ads all to get something extra or to add value.
As people of faith, tonight on this Holy Thursday, are we aware of the many gifts Jesus unwraps for us on this solemn night?
Tonight we gather to celebrate the Mass of the Lord’s Supper. We refer to this night as Holy Thursday, The Last Supper, and the first night of the Easter Tridiuum. For Jesus and His followers, they gathered in an upper room to celebrate the Passover. Now, tonight we read the Gospel account from St. John which does not present the Passover details. We should note, however, that the other three Gospels, Matthew, Mark and Luke, this night is indeed presented as the Passover meal. Tonight, we read from Exodus of the Passover and the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. Freed from slavery, they are saved from the angel of death by the blood of the lambs.
Matthew, Mark and Luke go on to give us the Eucharistic institution, where Jesus becomes the new Passover Lamb. It is by His blood that we too are saved from eternal death and freed from the slavery to sin.
The words that St. Paul repeats tonight in the 2nd reading from his first letter to the Corinthians are from these three Gospels. Paul stresses the handing on of this remembrance and says the words Jesus said at the Last Supper: “Do this in memory of me”.
So every time we come to Mass, we hear these words: “This is my body; this is my blood. Do this in memory of me”. The Eucharist; handed on to Paul; handed on to us. How is this accomplished? It is accomplished because Jesus instructed the Apostles to do this in remembrance. Did Jesus intend for this remembrance to die with the death of the last Apostle? No. Their successors are the Bishops, and Bishops ordain helpers, Priests. And Bishops and Priests, functioning in persona Christi, say words and perform actions that change bread and wine into the Body & Blood of Jesus!
So here on Holy Thursday we unwrap three gifts: The Eucharist, the Priesthood, and the Mass.
But there is more; a little lagniappe; one more gift. Return to tonight’s Gospel from St. John. We read of the incredible, loving example of service as Jesus washes the feet of His Apostles. We must know that keeping the feet clean was a big job back in the days when Jesus walked the Earth. The roads are dirty, dusty; muddy when it rains. The men wear sandals, thin soles held together by straps. It was customary when visiting a neighbor’s home or attending a dinner party for the host to have a jar of water, a ladle and towel outside the door. Your clean feet was your ticket inside.
So Jesus here goes beyond the customary. He removes his outer garment, takes a towel and stoops low and humbly washes the feet of His guests. He goes on to tell them that just as He has done for them, they must wash each others feet. Put another way: we who receives Eucharist are to be Eucharist to one another! How? In humble service to each other.
This water also reminds us of our Baptism. Clean feet is the ticket into the home of the host; our Baptism is a ticket that opens the door to all the other Sacraments and service to our Lord; that can lead to the open door of our host in Heaven: our Father.
One night; one liturgy; at least four gifts for us to embrace: The Eucharist, The Priesthood, The Mass and humble service to the Lord and each other.
So we ask, how can I repay the Lord for His goodness to me?
Here are a few suggestions: after Mass tonight, Jesus is removed from the tabernacle and reposed in a special place here in the church until midnight. Spend time after Mass with Him; perhaps for one hour. Tomorrow the church is at its emptiest, it’s loneliness. Why? The tabernacle is empty; Jesus is not here in the Blessed Sacrament. The sanctuary candle is unlit. Come and sit in church and feel the emptiness, the aloneness, the lack of His real presence.
But know it is temporary for Easter awaits. Yes, the empty tabernacle can remind us of the empty tomb. Sorrow and sadness will give way to Resurrection joy.
Remember this: when I shop for gifts, looking for extras, I may get a good deal but it still costs me some money. And the gift, one day, will fade away.
The gifts of this beautiful night, this Holy Thursday liturgy, coupled with our observance of Good Friday and the Easter resurrection are given to us by our Lord, free of charge and lasting forever and ever. Amen.
Gospel of John 13:1-15
Every year, when Christmas rolls around, I summon all the courage I can muster and venture to the mall. My mission: to find a great gift for my wife Wendy. After I find the perfect gift, I make a stop at the perfume counter and find one of her favorite fragrances. But I always look for the one that offers a free bonus gift. Yes, the Deacon is cheap. I have learned that at Christmas, you can get a free gift set, a travel case, or an extra bottle of perfume. Extra! Lagniappe!
We all like a little lagniappe; buy 1 get 1 free, 2 for 1, half price. We use coupons, gift certificates, sales flyers and newspaper ads all to get something extra or to add value.
As people of faith, tonight on this Holy Thursday, are we aware of the many gifts Jesus unwraps for us on this solemn night?
Tonight we gather to celebrate the Mass of the Lord’s Supper. We refer to this night as Holy Thursday, The Last Supper, and the first night of the Easter Tridiuum. For Jesus and His followers, they gathered in an upper room to celebrate the Passover. Now, tonight we read the Gospel account from St. John which does not present the Passover details. We should note, however, that the other three Gospels, Matthew, Mark and Luke, this night is indeed presented as the Passover meal. Tonight, we read from Exodus of the Passover and the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. Freed from slavery, they are saved from the angel of death by the blood of the lambs.
Matthew, Mark and Luke go on to give us the Eucharistic institution, where Jesus becomes the new Passover Lamb. It is by His blood that we too are saved from eternal death and freed from the slavery to sin.
The words that St. Paul repeats tonight in the 2nd reading from his first letter to the Corinthians are from these three Gospels. Paul stresses the handing on of this remembrance and says the words Jesus said at the Last Supper: “Do this in memory of me”.
So every time we come to Mass, we hear these words: “This is my body; this is my blood. Do this in memory of me”. The Eucharist; handed on to Paul; handed on to us. How is this accomplished? It is accomplished because Jesus instructed the Apostles to do this in remembrance. Did Jesus intend for this remembrance to die with the death of the last Apostle? No. Their successors are the Bishops, and Bishops ordain helpers, Priests. And Bishops and Priests, functioning in persona Christi, say words and perform actions that change bread and wine into the Body & Blood of Jesus!
So here on Holy Thursday we unwrap three gifts: The Eucharist, the Priesthood, and the Mass.
But there is more; a little lagniappe; one more gift. Return to tonight’s Gospel from St. John. We read of the incredible, loving example of service as Jesus washes the feet of His Apostles. We must know that keeping the feet clean was a big job back in the days when Jesus walked the Earth. The roads are dirty, dusty; muddy when it rains. The men wear sandals, thin soles held together by straps. It was customary when visiting a neighbor’s home or attending a dinner party for the host to have a jar of water, a ladle and towel outside the door. Your clean feet was your ticket inside.
So Jesus here goes beyond the customary. He removes his outer garment, takes a towel and stoops low and humbly washes the feet of His guests. He goes on to tell them that just as He has done for them, they must wash each others feet. Put another way: we who receives Eucharist are to be Eucharist to one another! How? In humble service to each other.
This water also reminds us of our Baptism. Clean feet is the ticket into the home of the host; our Baptism is a ticket that opens the door to all the other Sacraments and service to our Lord; that can lead to the open door of our host in Heaven: our Father.
One night; one liturgy; at least four gifts for us to embrace: The Eucharist, The Priesthood, The Mass and humble service to the Lord and each other.
So we ask, how can I repay the Lord for His goodness to me?
Here are a few suggestions: after Mass tonight, Jesus is removed from the tabernacle and reposed in a special place here in the church until midnight. Spend time after Mass with Him; perhaps for one hour. Tomorrow the church is at its emptiest, it’s loneliness. Why? The tabernacle is empty; Jesus is not here in the Blessed Sacrament. The sanctuary candle is unlit. Come and sit in church and feel the emptiness, the aloneness, the lack of His real presence.
But know it is temporary for Easter awaits. Yes, the empty tabernacle can remind us of the empty tomb. Sorrow and sadness will give way to Resurrection joy.
Remember this: when I shop for gifts, looking for extras, I may get a good deal but it still costs me some money. And the gift, one day, will fade away.
The gifts of this beautiful night, this Holy Thursday liturgy, coupled with our observance of Good Friday and the Easter resurrection are given to us by our Lord, free of charge and lasting forever and ever. Amen.
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