|
|
|||||||||||||||||||
|
|
National Chaplain's Sunday Reflection In next Sunday's Gospel reading, we hear the story of the paralytic who was taken to Jesus through a hole in the roof. He received healing because of his friends. God never intended any of us to move through the difficulties of life by ourselves. In fact, he answers our prayers through the fellowship of Christian friends in faith-filled community. We experience Christ through the Body of Christ that's here on earth: through the Eucharist that is given to us by priests and other ministers of communion, and through the communion of fellowship, i.e., the community of the local church and the community of far-away friends who are as near as a phone call or text message. He embraces us through the hugs that others give us. He speaks to us through the vocal chords of people he inspires. He gives us his comforting shoulder to cry on when we lean on friends who care. We progress in the faith more quickly, we heal more deeply, and we learn more about trusting God when we seek him and find him in the love of Christian companions. To do this, we have to put aside our pride in self-sufficiency. We have to accept what others offer to give. Do you have at least four friends who will carry you closer to Jesus – one for each corner of your mat, so to speak? To find them, we have to get involved in the community life of the Church. Your parish has a variety of opportunities, from ministries that can use our talents to social events that gather people for fun. It makes no sense to think that we can be in a good relationship wi th God without being in community with other faith-filled believers. Questions for Personal Reflection:What makes you lame? What's paralyzing you from trusting God more? What has caused you to sit down on the roadside of your personal growth? Name four friends who carry you closer to Jesus. If you cannot, what will you do to build more friendships? Sunday Readings: |
|
|||||||||||||||||
