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Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Meditation
Romans 1:16-25

"Ever since the creation of the world, his invisible attributes . . . have been able to be understood and perceived in what he has made." (Romans 1:20)

How is it possible that we can go through an entire day and be completely unaware of God? As Paul reminds us, the whole of creation declares to us his glory and majesty. It is only our failure to pay attention to that creation that prevents us from seeing him more clearly. It’s as if the world teaches us to go through life with tunnel vision, focusing narrowly on our destinations and never taking time to enjoy the scenery along the way.

There is no denying that most of us are very busy. But we should never let ourselves become so busy that we lose sight of the beauty that surrounds us. We rush to work, school, and appointments; we fly through the day, then rush home to take care of our families. How refreshing it would be if just for a few minutes each day, we could slow down enough to let God speak to us through his creation.

When was the last time you sat at the edge of a river, under a giant tree in the woods, or even in your own backyard, and marveled at God’s handiwork? Maybe it’s time to take another look at the world. Try gazing at the stark elegance of trees in autumn, with the magnificent carpet of leaves underneath. Ponder the beauty of spring flowers, blossoming in all their radiant glory. Pay attention to the quiet majesty of the clouds and let them speak to you about your loving Father.

Remember that all of creation is meant to lead us to one thing: worship! Those whom Paul is talking about in today’s reading were so focused on themselves that they ended up worshipping “the creature rather than the creator” (Romans 1:25). By contrast, hearing the voice of the Lord in a gentle breeze or seeing his face in the wonder of the night sky can lead us to praise God in ways we never knew before. Who knows? It may even lead us to “waste” a little more time with him!

“Lord, open my eyes to your glory. Teach me to listen as you speak to me through your creation. May I become thankful for all you have done for me!”

Psalm 19:2-5; Luke 11:37-41

One Bread, One Body

<< Tuesday, October 16, 2007 >>

St. Hedwig
St. Margaret Mary Alocoque

Romans 1:16-25

Psalm 19

Luke 11:37-41

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DISHWASHER

"Did not He Who made the outside make the inside too?" —Luke 11:40

Jesus didn't wash His dishes and the Pharisees were appalled. The Lord said to them: "You Pharisees! You cleanse the outside of cup and dish, but within you are filled with rapaciousness" (Lk 11:39). Jesus then challenged the Pharisees to give alms so as to be cleansed from their sins (Lk 11:41). The Lord did not mean to say that money could buy forgiveness, but called for an outward sign to express an interior conversion. John the Baptizer did the same thing when he demanded from religious leaders some evidence that they meant to reform (Mt 3:8). Since the Pharisees were avaricious men (Lk 16:14), almsgiving would be a sign of sincere repentance.

We also are focused on money and the things money can buy. Therefore, almsgiving may be a good way for us to express an interior change of heart. Go to Confession, ask the Holy Spirit to examine your conscience, then make a very generous contribution to the Lord's work. The Lord does not need our money. He lets us give for our benefit, not His. He does not need to receive; He is the almighty God. However, we need to give as an outward expression of interior conversion.

Prayer: Father, may I deliver the money You've entrusted to me to its proper place.

Promise: "I am not ashamed of the gospel. It is the power of God leading everyone who believes in it to salvation." —Rm 1:16

Praise: St. Margaret Mary let the Sacred Heart of Jesus make her heart like His. Through her obedient faithfulness, devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus has spread for many years to many nations.