Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome November 9, 2022

Father Rick’s Gospel Reflection for
The Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome November 9, 2022
John 2:13-22 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/110922.cfm
Please take a moment to read and pray over the gospel.

Zeal for Us Consumes Jesus.

A temple is a sacred place where God resides for His people. This was true in the Old Testament, and Jesus was shocked by the lack of respect people had for this dwelling of God. He cleansed the temple of the money changers and people who shamed God by their behavior and customs.

Jesus has the same zeal for us as we are the temples of His Holy Spirit. His heart resides in us, and we need to be conscious of His Presence with us at all times. However, we are physical with bodies as well as spiritual with souls. Therefore, following the custom of our Old Testament brothers and sisters, we have physical places to be with God as a community to worship Him. These temples are called Churches.

Our Catholic Church, for 1700 hundred years, has been the home of Our Lord Jesus, present in the tabernacles of our churches. Today we remember the first Church of Rome, St. John Lateran, dedicated to being the residence of the Holy Father. For the first time in over 300 years, the Church was not under persecution and could celebrate Mass and the Sacraments publicly.

Gospel Challenge:
Today, remember our behavior before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament when we enter a church. It is common to genuflect entering a pew. Perhaps we could limit our conversations so others can pray without distractions. May the Lord renew the honor and respect we show Him in the tabernacle and each other.

God bless you, my friends.

IGNITE THE FIRE.

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.
www.bscchurch.com

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