Each parish has its own level of dedication to Jesus and the Church. For centuries, a traditional view of the Church worked well, but now it needs to evolve. Simply put, some individuals believe that the clergy, religious, and a select few laypeople are entrusted to handle everything. They consider Mass a weekly duty, but nothing more is expected of them.
However, recent popes, including Pope Francis, have revived an old understanding of the Church. They have emphasized that all the baptized share in the mission of bringing Jesus to the world. This means that each one of us, regardless of our role or status, has a responsibility to live out our faith and share the love of Christ with others. Some people in today’s gospel were not only drawn to Jesus but also deeply committed to Him. This commitment included women who knew and loved Jesus so well that they surrendered everything to Him, including their finances and possessions.
St. Luke mentions a few of these women, including Mary Magdalene, whom Jesus cast out seven demons, and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, who handled Herod’s finances. Chuza was one of the king’s most trusted and important officials. What a contrast: a lady of the night and a lady of the court in the same company every day? Conversion to Jesus turns everything around.
Two people from completely different backgrounds and with distinct personalities share a profound love for Jesus, setting aside their differences without losing what makes them unique. This unity in diversity, as G.K. Chesterton explored, is a beautiful reflection of the image of a lion and a lamb lying down together, as described in Isaiah 11:6.
Gospel Challenge:
Our society’s divide is growing at an alarming rate, far beyond our control. Yet, it’s not beyond the grasp of people like us in our parishes, who are deeply committed to Jesus and to each other. The time to act is now. I refuse to stand by and watch society lose its way from the Lord. Can you?
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Jesus Attracts Opposites
Each parish has its own level of dedication to Jesus and the Church. For centuries, a traditional view of the Church worked well, but now it needs to evolve. Simply put, some individuals believe that the clergy, religious, and a select few laypeople are entrusted to handle everything. They consider Mass a weekly duty, but nothing more is expected of them.
However, recent popes, including Pope Francis, have revived an old understanding of the Church. They have emphasized that all the baptized share in the mission of bringing Jesus to the world. This means that each one of us, regardless of our role or status, has a responsibility to live out our faith and share the love of Christ with others. Some people in today’s gospel were not only drawn to Jesus but also deeply committed to Him. This commitment included women who knew and loved Jesus so well that they surrendered everything to Him, including their finances and possessions.
St. Luke mentions a few of these women, including Mary Magdalene, whom Jesus cast out seven demons, and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, who handled Herod’s finances. Chuza was one of the king’s most trusted and important officials. What a contrast: a lady of the night and a lady of the court in the same company every day? Conversion to Jesus turns everything around.
Two people from completely different backgrounds and with distinct personalities share a profound love for Jesus, setting aside their differences without losing what makes them unique. This unity in diversity, as G.K. Chesterton explored, is a beautiful reflection of the image of a lion and a lamb lying down together, as described in Isaiah 11:6.
Gospel Challenge:
Our society’s divide is growing at an alarming rate, far beyond our control. Yet, it’s not beyond the grasp of people like us in our parishes, who are deeply committed to Jesus and to each other. The time to act is now. I refuse to stand by and watch society lose its way from the Lord. Can you?
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.
frrick@bscchurch.com
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