Now Is The Time…Franciscan On-Line Lenten Retreat Continues

It is the evening of Palm Sunday and this concludes our on-line Lenten retreat. On Thursday we begin the Triduum and I encourage you to attend as many services you can as we mark the passion, death and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus. Thank you to our viewers, our friends who blogged and to all who prayed with the Sunday Gospels of Lent. I hope you will return often to our Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity website to read, ponder and comment. May the Lord give you peace!

amen, Sister!

I confess I have been a silent reader of this on-line retreat this Lent. Thanks to Sister Anne Marie for her vigilant spirit in answering the spoken comments and directing all of us to Holy Week. Father Paul's generosity in also sharing his faith was a double blessing. Peace and all good.

Thank you, Sister Sue Ann, for sharing your experiences of "keeping vigil" with family members. I can't help but wonder what great things God has in store for us when we follow Jesus into the next life!

I have been blest to have kept vigil with my father, mother and brother. All three were different. There was no struggle for my father and brother, they both passed quietly with family around them. My mother had serve pain all day the day she passed. She coded and nurses and doctors came from every where. My prayer: "Lord please take her home with you." I didn't ever think I would say that but I saw her pain! It doesn't take much for me to cry when I see and hear of anothers pain and sorrow. These deaths have been hard and a "normal" course of life. Jesus' death was His GIFT to us to make us children of His Father again. How great must be our sin to have made Him suffer so much for us!

Thank you, Lois and "g" for your comments. Both of you touched on those last moments of Jesus' life. What is it like to "pass over"?

"g", I will be keeping a "heart vigil" as your aunt passes from this world to the next. I often think of how Jesus' mother, Mary, kept vigil at the foot of the cross. I hear in my heart the old familiar, "At the cross her station keeping, stood the mournful mother weeping, close to Jesus to the end."

I have "kept vigil" with family members and friends as they passed away and that song brings me strength... and a solidarity with Mary.

Anyone else have experiences of "keeping vigil" with a loved one?

8. ...what happens within you as you hear Jesus say, “Father into your hands I commend my spirit”?

This stirs my wonder about what it will be like to die from this human form. I like the thought of my spirit delivered into the comfort of God's hands.

One of my dear aunts is experiencing her last moments on earth tonight - and I'm envisioning her transition from here - to there. Hoping my mom and her other sister and brother are there in whatever form, to welcome her.

It's an interesting place to be. On your deathbed. Or the cross.

I have had repeated trials of difficult times in my life and I have learned to cope by following the example set by our Lord Jesus Christ. During troubled times, I so often reach for my Rosary and recite the Sorrowful Mysteries. So much can be learned by reflecting on being sorrow for our sins in the Agony of the Garden,
becoming purified with the Scourging at the pillar, learning courage to face these hard times with the Crowning of the Thornes of Jesus,Meditating on the Carrying of the Cross and the great deal of patience Christ exibited, and finally the Crucifixion, where Jesus persevered until the very end. We, too, must learn all of these valuable virtues so that we may model after Jesus in times of trouble in our lives.

I’d like to get the conversation started by responding to #1:What were some of the most difficult periods in your life? Some most difficult periods were when I began teaching and felt I couldn’t “get my head above water”, when my sister, my parents and some good friends died, and when I felt unsure that God was with me.

· How did this period affect other aspects of your life? These periods made me tenser, less sure of myself, more suspicious of others and made my thought processes murky and unfocused.

· How did it affect your ability to respond to family, friends, and the needs of others? I was more self-focused and less able to even see the needs of others. My needs, as well as the needs of others, became almost invisible.

· How did it affect your relationship with God? This is where a community of faith is so important. There were times when those praying around me (at Mass or Liturgy of Hours) carried my prayer. I felt distant or disconnected from God and others kept me connected by their love, their concern and their prayer. I also am a firm believer in Paul’s advice, “when I cannot pray, the Spirit of God prays in me.”

Eventually my relationship with myself, others and God came back into balance and focus. I became more empathetic with others who struggled. I grew through the difficulty. Hindsight tells me these things. While in the middle of difficulty, I can only trust.

Any comments from you?

Sunday: March 28, 2010
Palm Sunday - Passion of Our Lord
Luke 22:14-23:56

SUGGESTION, BEFORE YOU READ THE TEXT!
This week the passion that will be read on Palm Sunday is (Luke 22:14-23:56) and Good Friday is (John 18:1-19:42). An insightful exercise would be to make a list of the events that took place from the Last Supper to the death of Jesus on the cross, as you remember them. Then, read the text here or that of John checking off those events on your list and noting those you did not list. At the end of the reading note which events ARE NOT recorded by Luke (or John), and which events are recorded that you did list. This type of exercise can provide some insights into what Luke considered important for his readers and which events are significant for you.

- - - - - - - - - - - -
14 When the hour came, he [Jesus] took his place at table with the apostles. 15. He said to them, "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer, 16 for, I tell you, I shall not eat it (again) until there is fulfillment in the kingdom of God." 17. Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and said, "Take this and share it among yourselves; 18 for I tell you (that) from this time on I shall not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes." 19. Then he took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me." 20. And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you. 21. "And yet behold, the hand of the one who is to betray me is with me on the table; 22 for the Son of Man indeed goes as it has been determined; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed." 23. And they began to debate among themselves who among them would do such a deed.

24. Then an argument broke out among them about which of them should be regarded as the greatest. 25. He said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them and those in authority over them are addressed as 'Benefactors'; 26 but among you it shall not be so. Rather, let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant. 27. For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves. 28. It is you who have stood by me in my trials; 29 and I confer a kingdom on you, just as my Father has conferred one on me, 30, that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom; and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 31. "Simon, Simon, behold Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, 32 but I have prayed that your own faith may not fail; and once you have turned back, you must strengthen your brothers." 33. He said to him, "Lord, I am prepared to go to prison and to die with you." 34. But he replied, "I tell you, Peter, before the cock crows this day, you will deny three times that you know me."

35. He said to them, "When I sent you forth without a money bag or a sack or sandals, were you in need of anything?" "No, nothing," they replied. 36. He said to them, "But now one who has a money bag should take it, and likewise a sack, and one who does not have a sword should sell his cloak and buy one. 37 For I tell you that this scripture must be fulfilled in me, namely, 'He was counted among the wicked'; and indeed what is written about me is coming to fulfillment." 38. Then they said, "Lord, look, there are two swords here." But he replied, "It is enough!"

39. Then going out he went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. 40. When he arrived at the place he said to them, "Pray that you may not undergo the test." 41. After withdrawing about a stone's throw from them and kneeling, he prayed, 42 saying, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done." 43. (And to strengthen him an angel from heaven appeared to him.
44 He was in such agony and he prayed so fervently that his sweat became like drops of blood falling on the ground.) 45. When he rose from prayer and returned to his disciples, he found them sleeping from grief. 46. He said to them, "Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not undergo the test."

47. While he was still speaking, a crowd approached and in front was one of the Twelve, a man named Judas. He went up to Jesus to kiss him. 48. Jesus said to him, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?" 49. His disciples realized what was about to happen, and they asked, "Lord, shall we strike with a sword?" 50. And one of them struck the high priest's servant and cut off his right ear. 51 But Jesus said in reply, "Stop, no more of this!" Then he touched the servant's ear and healed him. 52. And Jesus said to the chief priests and temple guards and elders who had come for him, "Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs? 53. Day after day I was with you in the temple area, and you did not seize me; but this is your hour, the time for the power of darkness."

54. After arresting him they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest; Peter was following at a distance. 55. They lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter sat down with them.56. When a maid saw him seated in the light, she looked intently at him and said, "This man too was with him." 57. But he denied it saying, "Woman, I do not know him." 58. A short while later someone else saw him and said, "You too are one of them"; but Peter answered, "My friend, I am not." 59. About an hour later, still another insisted, "Assuredly, this man too was with him, for he also is a Galilean." 60. But Peter said, "My friend, I do not know what you are talking about." Just as he was saying this, the cock crowed, 61 and the Lord turned and looked at Peter; and Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the cock crows today, you will deny me three times." 62. He went out and began to weep bitterly.

63. The men who held Jesus in custody were ridiculing and beating him. 64. They blindfolded him and questioned him, saying, "Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?" 65. And they reviled him in saying many other things against him.

66. When day came the council of elders of the people met, both chief priests and scribes, and they brought him before their Sanhedrin. 67. They said, "If you are the Messiah, tell us," but he replied to them, "If I tell you, you will not believe, 68 and if I question, you will not respond. 69. But from this time on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God." 70. They all asked, "Are you then the Son of God?" He replied to them, "You say that I am." 71. Then they said, "What further need have we for testimony? We have heard it from his own mouth." 1. Then the whole assembly of them arose and brought him before Pilate.

2. They brought charges against him, saying, "We found this man misleading our people; he opposes the payment of taxes to Caesar and maintains that he is the Messiah, a king." 3. Pilate asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" He said to him in reply, "You say so." 4. Pilate then addressed the chief priests and the crowds, "I find this man not guilty." 5. But they were adamant and said; "He is inciting the people with his teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee where he began even to here." 6. On hearing this Pilate asked if the man was a Galilean; 7 and upon learning that he was under Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod who was in Jerusalem at that time.

8. Herod was very glad to see Jesus; he had been wanting to see him for a long time, for he had heard about him and had been hoping to see him perform some sign. 9. He questioned him at length, but he gave him no answer. 10. The chief priests and scribes, meanwhile, stood by accusing him harshly. 11. (Even) Herod and his soldiers treated him contemptuously and mocked him, and after clothing him in resplendent garb, he sent him back to Pilate. 12. Herod and Pilate became friends that very day, even though they had been enemies formerly. 13. Pilate then summoned the chief priests, the rulers, and the people 14 and said to them, "You brought this man to me and accused him of inciting the people to revolt. I have conducted my investigation in your presence and have not found this man guilty of the charges you have brought against him, 15 nor did Herod, for he sent him back to us. So no capital crime has been committed by him. 16. Therefore I shall have him flogged and then release him." 17. 18. But all together they shouted out, "Away with this man! Release Barabbas to us." 19 (Now Barabbas had been imprisoned for a rebellion that had taken place in the city and for murder.) 20. Again Pilate addressed them, still wishing to release Jesus, 21 but they continued their shouting, "Crucify him! Crucify him!" 22. Pilate addressed them a third time, "What evil has this man done? I found him guilty of no capital crime. Therefore I shall have him flogged and then release him." 23. With loud shouts, however, they persisted in calling for his crucifixion, and their voices prevailed. 24 The verdict of Pilate was that their demand should be granted. 25. So he released the man who had been imprisoned for rebellion and murder, for whom they asked, and he handed Jesus over to them to deal with as they wished.

26. As they led him away they took hold of a certain Simon, a Cyrenian, who was coming in from the country; and after laying the cross on him, they made him carry it behind Jesus. 27. A large crowd of people followed Jesus, including many women who mourned and lamented him. 28 Jesus turned to them and said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep instead for yourselves and for your children, 29 for indeed, the days are coming when people will say, 'Blessed are the barren, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed.' 30. At that time people will say to the mountains, 'Fall upon us!' and to the hills, 'Cover us!' 31. for if these things are done when the wood is green what will happen when it is dry?" 32. Now two others, both criminals, were led away with him to be executed. 33. When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him and the criminals there, one on his right, the other on his left. 34. (Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.") They divided his garments by casting lots. 35. The people stood by and watched; the rulers, meanwhile, sneered at him and said, "He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Messiah of God." 36. Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine 37 they called out, "If you are King of the Jews, save yourself." 38. Above him there was an inscription that read, "This is the King of the Jews."

39. Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us." 40. The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, "Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? 41. And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal." 42. Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." 43. He replied to him, "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."

44. It was now about noon and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon 45 because of an eclipse of the sun. Then the veil of the temple was torn down the middle. 46. Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit"; and when he had said this he breathed his last.

47. The centurion who witnessed what had happened glorified God and said, "This man was innocent beyond doubt." 48. When all the people who had gathered for this spectacle saw what had happened, they returned home beating their breasts; 49 but all his acquaintances stood at a distance, including the women who had followed him from Galilee and saw these events.

50. Now there was a virtuous and righteous man named Joseph who, though he was a member of the council, 51 had not consented to their plan of action. He came from the Jewish town of Arimathea and was awaiting the kingdom of God. 52. He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 53. After he had taken the body down, he wrapped it in a linen cloth and laid him in a rock-hewn tomb in which no one had yet been buried. 54. It was the day of preparation, and the sabbath was about to begin. 55. The women who had come from Galilee with him followed behind, and when they had seen the tomb and the way in which his body was laid in it, 56 they returned and prepared spices and perfumed oils. Then they rested on the Sabbath according to the commandment.

BACKGROUND:
Luke presents a consistent image of Jesus. The qualities that Jesus has shown during his life are also the qualities that are present as Jesus moves toward his death. In the second verse of the text, Jesus tells those who have gathered for this last meal together that he eagerly desired to eat this meal with them. But this is no ideal image of the final banquet. In the course of the meal, before the betrayal of Judas will be foretold, those gathered argued about who is the greatest. Peter’s denial will be predicted. From the beginning, Luke portrays Jesus as one who accepts the human imperfections and weaknesses of even his closest followers. On the Mount of Olives, Luke portrays Jesus as one who briefly wrestles with what lies before him but quickly accepts the will of his Father. Again Jesus’ closest disciples are unable to endure in faith and they betray him. Their behavior indicates that they have not internalized his preaching and, as predicted, Peter denies his relationship with Jesus.

The one who will judge heaven and earth is led before the high priest, the Sanhedrin, Pilate and Herod. Jesus does not challenge their authority. They bring charges against him that range from being a revolutionary, to forbidding the paying of taxes to Caesar, and claiming to be king as well as the Christ and the Son of God. In the process of being questioned about the charges, he is also ridiculed, mocked, beaten and flogged three different times. The crowds that greeted him and praised God as he entered Jerusalem now turn to anger and condemnation. Throughout, Jesus conducts himself with a sense of dignity and control. As he is being led to be crucifixion, Jesus ministers to women of Jerusalem and to one of the men being crucified with him.

When Jesus finally hands over his spirit to his Father, the centurion who witnessed what has happened declares, “This man was innocent beyond a doubt.” (Luke 23:47) Throughout his narrative Luke reminds his audience of Jesus’ innocence. Three times Pilate states that he does not find Jesus guilty of the charges. “Pilate then addressed the chief priests and the crowds, ‘I find this man not guilty.’ … Pilate then summoned the chief priests, the rulers, and the people and said to them, ‘you brought this man to me and accused him of inciting the people to revolt. I have conducted my investigation in your presence and have not found this man guilty of the charges you have brought against him, nor did Herod, for he sent him back to us. So no capital crime has been committed by him’. … Pilate addressed them a third time, ‘what evil has this man done? I found him guilty of no capital crime...’ (Luke 23:4, 13-15, 22) One of those crucified with Jesus says to his companion “… we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal.” (Luke 23:41) Jesus’ prayer to His Father, that those who are crucifying Him be forgiven, is also a testament of Jesus’ innocence. (Luke 23:34) These reminders throughout the passion lead the reader to feel the truth of the centurion’s statement as Jesus gives us his life and darkness comes over the land. "This man was innocent beyond doubt." (Luke 23:47b)

REFLECTION QUESTIONS
1. What were some of the most difficult periods in your life?
· How did this period affect other aspects of your life?
· How did it affect your ability to respond to family, friends, and the needs of others?
· How did it affect your relationship with God?
2. Can you recall times when you were more angry than you needed to be, or even cruel, towards another?
· What was going on within you at that time?
· Were you aware that you were behaving poorly at the time or only in hindsight?
· What did that experience teach you about yourself?
3. Have you ever known, or even read about, people who stayed true to their course of action and beliefs even thought they were ridiculed and met much resistance?
· Why did they not “adapt to the situation”?
· What reaction did you have to them then? Now?
4. Luke presents Jesus as an innocent victim. The disciples, religious and civil authority, and the crowd all stand by and watch the innocent Jesus suffer tragically and be put to death. What does Luke’s description of Jesus’ passion say to you? How would you like to respond?
5. What happens within you when you hear Jesus say, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer”?
6. What happens within you when you hear Peter say, “Woman, I do not know him?
· My friend, I do not know what you are talking about”?
7. What happens within you when you hear Pilate say: “So no capital crime has been committed by him…. I found him guilty of no capital crime”?
· When you hear the thief crucified with him say, “this man had done nothing criminal”?
· And finally when the centurion says, “This man was innocent beyond doubt”?
8. Finally, what happens within you as you hear Jesus say, “Father into your hands I commend my spirit”?
9. As you pray and reflect on this passion text, what stirs within you? What is your desire for yourself, for your neighbor, for the church?

I am thanking God for the variety of discussion on this blog and hoping it will continue as our Lenten journey progresses. Monday morning there will be the posting for Passion (Palm) Sunday.

Sorry, the whole sinfulness thing really doesn’t resonate with me at all…(even though it’s probably a really big point.)…oh well….I guess I’m just not there...and I’m okay with it…anyway…here’s a little take of my own.

Eventually, King Hezekiah would end up smashing Moses’ bronze snake and removing it from the Temple. Even though God commanded its construction, Hezekiah destroyed the bronze serpent because the people were worshipping it. The object intended to heal the people and draw their attention back to the one true and living God had become an object of idolatry.

I was sort of reflecting tonight on the connection between the bronze serpent and the cross. I wouldn’t exactly say that the cross for me is an object of idolatry…but it is actually something that I tend to get stuck on….I tend to get stuck in my Good Fridays and long Holy Saturdays….often forgetting that Easter is always in sight.

By putting the bronze serpent on a pole, Moses drew his community’s attention upward to the heavens and to God, on whom they could rely. So, maybe Hezekiah’s actions were okay in the end….for it wasn’t in looking at the bronze serpent that really saved the snake-bitten Israelites; it was the “looking up” and remembering that the God who brought them out of Egypt was still with them. Still today, it is in looking with those same eyes of faith and belief that we too can remember that in our lives, there is a promised land, a resurrection, and an Easter always in sight…remembering the cross is one thing…getting stuck on it is another….

Ritual is what makes our religion so exciting for me. All of the actions we make in our prayer in the coming days, and this during Lent. Not only studying and praying, but doing.

“g” thank you for your insights. I like the passage from Numbers regarding the lifting up of the serpent image because Carroll Stuhmueller, C.P. in his scriptural reflections says that the Israelites were required to look at the bronze serpent and admit their sin. When they admitted the sin, they were cured. A good lesson for us with regard to admitting our own sins (and not pointing fingers at others as in the Gospel) and sound theology for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. This is also an image of the crucified Jesus. I love the ritual we have of all coming to the cross on Good Friday and kissing it or bowing before it. It is another admission of our sinfulness.

Anyone else out there willing to comment?

consider the very last statement about Joseph...

THE MYSTERY OF THE CROSS (from Richard Rohr's Daily Meditations)
March 19
Feast of St. Joseph, the father of Jesus

Question of the Day:
How is the cross like homeopathic medicine?

The second image of the “Lifted-Up One” is the image from Moses and the bronze serpent in the desert that became the symbol for doctors and healers.

In the book of Numbers, Yahweh tells Moses to raise up a serpent on a standard, and “anyone who has been bitten by a serpent and looks upon it will be healed” (21:8). The very thing that was killing them is the thing that will heal them!

I would ask you to consider the crucifix as a homeopathic image, like those medicines that give you just enough of the disease so you can develop a resistance and be healed of the disease. The cross dramatically reveals the problem of ignorant killing, to inoculate us against doing the same thing. It is God’s vaccination plan!

Note: Joseph, the father of Jesus, whose feast we celebrate today, must have gotten the vaccination early, because he had no need or desire to strike back at Mary, after he discovered her to be pregnant—without him!

Adapted from Things Hidden: Scripture as Spirituality

Another of my favorites - along with the prodigal son story. The forgiveness and the opportunities to make amends and move ahead are so hopeful.

This reminds me of something my mom often said. "There's so much bad in the best of us, and so much good in the worst of us, that it little behooves any of us, to talk about the rest of us."

"Daughter",
Thanks for your "take" on the story. It, also, is interesting and captivating. The layers of meaning you put forth are what I love about scripture. There are inexhaustible layers!

On another note, I found this quote by Joan Chittister, OSB, to be powerful for this week’s Gospel:
“In the face of Jesus we see the compassionate face of God. It is that very compassion we ourselves are meant to show to others. Then, as Jesus is the face of God for us, we ourselves become the face of Jesus for others.”

I enjoyed your thinking, my friend, because that is exactly what many of us would do, but totally just for fun, here’s another view……

What do I think? I think Jesus called their bluff and had no doubts about it.

As we know, the scribes and Pharisees all pointed their fingers at the woman, but their eyes were clearly fixed on Jesus….pointing at the woman, but more than likely ready to drop her case completely to trample Christ in any way they could. Furthermore, they were on “their” turf and were pretty persistent in demanding an answer from Jesus. They thought their scenario was win- win and could probably smell victory.

The fun hinge and key to this story that no one will ever know is what Jesus wrote that day that changed the course of events so quickly….

Some say that Jesus wrote down the sins of the accusers, or perhaps even wrote the names of people “they” were unfaithful with, and so they left….I think he wrote, “Where’s Bob?” Adultery obviously takes two and under the law, both were to be stoned….What if “Bob” was one of their friends who helped to stage the whole deal?....Jesus, knowing his identity, and their scheme out of thin air would have scared the hell out of them and shut them up in a hurry. In two words, Jesus could have clearly called their game and made it clear that he was not playing it. So, the win-win scenario was quickly defunct.

The scribes and Pharisees started to play a lot of games around this time in the life of Jesus…..I think Jesus could see them coming…I think he was prepared to out think and outsmart for a greater purpose….and that excites me!

As for the woman….Under the Law of Moses, there had to be at least two witnesses…but “they” all left…there was no one to lawfully condemn her…so, really, no one could condemn her at the time, (especially if she was just part of a plot anyway…) Just the simple “Go and sin no more” was really the only response….however…it was THE response……and the perfect response because it has so many levels for us….yesterday, today and forever….go Jesus!

Cool story….

Thank you, Gail and Lois, for your comments. I, too, have found that when I have been shown mercy, I am more merciful. The Ten Commandments and the Beatitudes are surely given for our well-being. What amazes me about Jesus is that, even when I don’t obey the commandments or live the Beatitudes, I am totally and completely loved, forgiven and cherished. The mystery of God’s compassionate love shown us in Jesus is a gift I will always cherish.

I’m reflecting on question #3 tonight. From the background given by Fr. Paul, the temple area was a gathering place to debate the law. I wonder if Jesus wanted to teach or debate the topic of compassion with regard to the law. He certainly didn’t “throw the law” at the woman caught in adultery. The law would have allowed that. So, I’m thinking that compassion, forgiveness, and understanding may have been the points Jesus went to “debate”. That, of course, is only conjecture, but it’s my thought.

I wonder if he pondered deeply after the woman left him. I wonder if he asked himself, “Did I do the right thing?” I wonder if he was filled with doubt and debated with himself as to whether or not he was carrying out his Father’s message and attitude. I’m guessing he would have liked some reassurance at that point.

What do you think?

Three times in my life I have been treated with great mercy like the woman caught in the act of adultery when I should have had the book thrown at me. The gift in it is that each time I became more merciful myself to others.

In response to reflection Question #4

In a Christian society and through the Catholic Church we all know the Laws that we are expected to live by. They are the 10 Commandments. We are taught from an early age the rights and the wrongs of these rules. When someone faithfully exercises daily living by abiding by these rules then we can say that one lives a good Christian life. All Catholics must also live their lives, faithfully through the Sacraments that the Church has given us. We must know in our hearts that these Sacraments are genuine GIFTS from God.

For a further reading on the Sacrament of Reconciliation, you may want to go to the Catechism of the Catholic Church: http://www.usccb.org/catechism/text/pt2sect2chpt2.shtml#vi
It is good for all of us to reflect on this Sacrament, especially during Lent.
For more discussion on Lent and the Sacraments you may want to visit:
http://www.usccb.org/lent/celebrate.shtml

I hope to hear from other readers regarding the Sacrament of Reconciliation or your thoughts, insights into the Gospel.

After years of hearing this same gospel over and over again, I have come to the believe that Jesus went to the Temple that morning because he knew that the Scribes and the Pharisees would bring the woman who commited
adultery to him. He wanted them to know that we all sin and it should not be for anyone but God to judge us for our sins. Jesus wanted them to know that he could forgive even the worst kind of sins, only if the sinner would change and sin no more, just as he told the adulterous woman to to. Go and Sin No More!.

In response to Question #7 Yes, very often my Christian friends from other denominations have criticized or teased me about going to Confession with a Priest. What they do not understand is a Catholic Faithful must observe the Sacrament of Reconciliation. A true Catholic has a very strong bonding in connection with the sacramental meaning
of Penance. We are taught that it is necessary for a Priest to be present so that he can give us absolution to any sins that we may confess. Whether or not other Christians like or dislike, or understand or do not understand, is not important. What is important is that we Catholics know that exercising our Catholic Faith means that a Priest's presence for Confession is the only way trough which we can receive absolution.

The looks sometimes when I speak of the vallue of confession to the parents at a parent meeting tells me they don't believe it or maybe
just are too afraid to try it again. The children are very good at accepting and willing to celebrate the gift of this Sacrament. As for me I need to celebrate it several times a year. Maybe I should more often but seem to let it for Advent and Lent.
The help and grace I receive from the discussion and advice come back to me often as I struggle with avoiding the sin in the future.
I'm so glad Jesus is so compassionate and loving that He can forgive all sins. I pray to
learn to forgive better when I am acussed or hurt by someone else.
Maxine

Here is the Gospel for next Sunday:

March 21, 2010
5th Sunday of Lent
John 8:1-11

1 [While] Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. 2. But early in the morning he arrived again in the temple area, and all the people started coming to him, and he sat down and taught them. 3. Then the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery and made her stand in the middle. 4. They said to him, "Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. 5. Now in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?" 6. They said this to test him, so that they could have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger. 7. But when they continued asking him, he straightened up and said to them, "Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her." 8. Again he bent down and wrote on the ground. 9. And in response, they went away one by one, beginning with the elders. So he was left alone with the woman before him. 10. Then Jesus straightened up and said to her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" 11. She replied, "No one, sir." Then Jesus said, "Neither do I condemn you. Go, (and) from now on do not sin any more."

BACKGROUND:

The text for this Sunday’s gospel reflects a common theme of Luke: Jesus’ compassion for sinners. Manuscripts of John’s Gospel do not contain this text; scholars believe that it was added later.

The text for this week presents the familiar story of a woman caught in adultery. Because the story is so familiar, the reader may not be attentive to the opening verses. The temple area was the gathering place for the scribes, Pharisees and those who were concerned with matters of the law. While they are portrayed in the gospels as being opponents of Jesus, and therefore in a negative light, remember that Jesus went and ate with them, something that in Jesus’ world demonstrated respect. By going to this temple area, sitting down and teaching, Jesus is behaving in the typical manner of those who come to debate the law.

Adultery was an offense against the honor of a husband. A husband could accuse his wife but a wife could not accuse her husband. According to the book of Deuteronomy, both the man and woman should be punished. “If a man is discovered having relations with a woman who is married to another, both the man and woman with whom he has had relations shall die. Thus shall you purge the evil form your midst.” (Deuteronomy 22:22) But generally, the woman bore the blame and punishment. According to the Hebrew Law, she could be stoned to death if she were a woman who was betrothed (age 12-14), and strangled if she were a married woman.

The law also prescribed that the witnesses of the offense should be the ones to begin the execution. However, according to Roman law, the Hebrew people did not have the authority to execute anyone. Those who have brought this woman to Jesus have set a kind of test or trap. The crowd that gathered would be alienated if Jesus spoke against a legitimate part of the Mosaic tradition. If he supports the stoning of this woman, then he would contradict his previous teaching about forgiveness and would place himself above the Roman authority that reserved imposition of death sentence to itself.

What is clear from the situation is that the woman is being treated as a pawn for a debate about the law. Those who have brought her into the temple area do not care about what happens to her, or her reputation. In contrast, Jesus seems to be more concerned with her than anything else. Other attempts to trap Jesus have left those setting the trap embarrassed and discredited. However, here he does not seem to be concerned with them. On the contrary, he remains silent and begins to doddle on the ground. This places the burden of what do with the woman on those who brought her forward. According to the law, the witnesses are responsible for being the first to carry out the execution. But they are unwilling to do so and eventually they, and the crowd, abandon the woman. It is only then, when Jesus is alone with the woman that he speaks with her. He neither condones what she has done nor treats her as a public sinner. “Then Jesus straightened up and said to her, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ 11. She replied, ‘No one, sir.’ Then Jesus said, ‘neither do I condemn you. Go, (and) from now on do not sin any more.’” John 8:10-11)


REFLECTION QUESTION
1. Can you recall a time when you were caught “red handed” doing something you should not have been doing? What was it? Who caught you? How did you feel when you were caught? How did you respond in that situation? How did the person who caught you treat the incident?
2. Have you ever been made a public example of behavior that was not acceptable? (In the classroom, at church, in sports, at work) What do you think was the concern of the person making you the example? What message do you think everyone who witnessed the event received that day?
3. Why do you think Jesus went to the temple area that day? What do you think he did after the woman left him? Why? What do you think was going on inside of him?
4. Do you know people who seem to make “obeying the law, the rules, or what is expected” the measure of what one should do? How big of a part do “rules and laws” play in your personal life?
5. Do you have private sins that, if exposed, would embarrass you to the point that you would not want to be seen in public or in church? What does this gospel say to you?
6. What do you think was the experience of this woman when she was caught? What was her experience of being with Jesus this day?
7. Have you ever been criticized for confessing your sins to a priest? How do you feel about going to confession?
8. What does this gospel say to you about the kind of church Jesus would like us to be? How can you help us to be that kind of church?

Gospel Reflection Questions
Written by Paul Gallagher, OFM
Edited by Sister Anne Marie Lom, OSF
Gospel Reflections are distributed free of charge to your email address if you so choose.
To receive them, contact annemarie.lom@gmail.com

If copied, please include this information.

But the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” So to them he addressed this parable….

I always visualized Jesus welcoming tax collectors, prostitutes, and other similar people. To me, they were “okay” because in my eyes, they had to obtain an income somehow and that income just happened to have “sinning” as part of it. To me, all Jesus really had to do was convince them to get a new job….So yeah, why not eat with them….go for it. Then my week started with a Jesus figure in my life telling me that for the next year, he will basically have to be a close acquaintance with someone who just ended a multi-year jail sentence for child molestation, and how fine he was with it…Being in the field I am in, where children are very very close to my heart, I was crushed….and in that brief moment, I GAVE the criticism for having friends that were not considered “acceptable.” I WAS one of the Pharisees that said, “This man welcomes sinners….” And then, something broke within me….because I started to visualize Jesus sitting with child molesters and I couldn’t handle it. If I saw that during the time of Jesus, I know that I would have walked away and that he would have lost his credibility with me. So, wow…reflection question number 1 this week quickly changed into, “What does the fact that I gave the criticism say about the kind of person I am?” So, this parable means a ton to me….in some ways, Jesus addressed it to ME…and then he put the opportunity to learn how to forgive the unacceptable in my eyes right in my lap…. So, will I accept the invitation into that forgiveness? My only response to that right now is a deep breath….a very deep breath…..

As I listened to the reflection at Mass this evening, I was again reminded that not all conflicts have resolutions. Sometimes we live with the “unfinished business” of a lack of willingness to forgive or be forgiven. Living with mystery is its own suffering and part of our Lenten journey and life journey. Peace and all good things to our readers this Saturday evening.

As this Friday closes, know that all of you reading and posting are kept in prayer. "g" has put it well, life is an unanswerable question. We can rest knowing that, in God, all questions are answered.

: )

Faith: Because LIFE is an unanswerable question.

Thank you to both of you who gave powerful and stunning comments. Both “g” and
”daughter” have grappled with real life situations born of pain and struggle. It would certainly be inappropriate of me to claim I have any answers. When I am in situations that involve unanswerable questions and deep pain, I place myself, with Mary, at the foot of the cross and stand in silent vigil; only being present. That seems the only response.

I do sense the parable of the Prodigal Son resonates deeply with many of our readers. That resonance keeps us on our Lenten journey.

I had the opportunity to listen to Perry…a few times tonight…. At the end of Perry’s segment he stated that Mel Gibson, in making The Passion of the Christ, hoped to figure out how one man could experience what Jesus did and still forgive…what was behind it? But you know what? Jesus said some words about forgiveness and then died. What if he didn’t die? (Drawing it a little closer to real human experience…) What if after, he was somehow let go, only to have to spend months and months and months healing physically, mentally, emotionally, relationally, gosh…even spiritually? What would the response be then? That’s what I would I like to know….what would be behind that? What if we don’t die after being crucified?

Here is a website for a Lenten Radio Retreat where Bishop Joseph N. Perry talks about God's forgiveness and the story of the prodigal son.
http://www.franciscanradio.org/Retreats/Lent/episode.asp?epnum=4&lang=en&cycle=C

and - as a church - are we welcoming our little brothers home with our "Coming Home" - or are we saying "WHY ARE ALL THESE PEOPLE SITTING IN MY PEW?" "I CAN'T FIND A PARKING SPOT BECAUSE OF ALL THESE PEOPLE WHO SHOW UP ONCE A YEAR". . .

just a thought.

This past year I lost a brother and a sister. My sister was an evangelical Christian who spent her last month in great anticipation of moving on and meeting her Maker. She was ready to go Home.

My brother was a chronic alcoholic who spent his last days in ICU, and then the floor of his home. He died alone, propped up in the corner of his living room, by a relative stranger.

My sister was excited to meet the Lord, and my brother professed that HE was God.

If I look at the parable of the prodigal son - I have to wonder if my brother made it back to the Father. For years before he died I hoped I'd see that day physically. Now I hope it happened spiritually.

Interestingly though - when I look at the parable and compare it to my life - I'm happy to see that my sister was evolved far enough that she would have been delighted to see my brother come home with her. There's no way she'd be envious thinking that she deserved more consideration than he.

In the parable it seems to me that the older son is the one that needs to grow. He stayed home and was diligent and did what was asked of him, but he carried envy, it seems. As if he was diminished because his brother got some attention.

It takes great courage to make changes in your life. To leave - and then return. So many are trapped out there with addictions, so far away. It helps to have those that don't, the "older brothers," reach out a helping hand and offer to accept their brothers home.

The Father will be happy to welcome them both. I'm sure of it.

I just hope my brother returned with my sister and that some day we'll all be together again.

What strikes me? Well, the story doesn’t have an ending. We are left to wonder if the older brother will accept the father's invitation to the party...and it is that idea of invitation that strikes me.

In the end of the story, as in our own lives, the father gives exactly what is needed. The younger son is accepted back home and given a place of belonging....and the older son is given reassurance: "You are always with me. Everything I have is yours." Then the father extends the invitation to come inside to the party and to celebrate.

So, there’s a place for everyone at the feast....but the ending is still ours....do we accept the invitation? Furthermore, do we, like the father, give others a place of belonging? In our church communities, do those who at times gasp for air, kick at established tradition, and ritual, and sometimes even leave still get an invitation? Do those who are ever so dutiful, thoughtful, caring, and concerned, get reassured? What ending does the story really have?

I’d like to focus on question # 7 today: As you hear this parable today what seems to strike you? Are you aware of changes within yourself as you hear the parable unfold? What does your awareness of yourself say to you about the power of God in this story? How would you like to respond?

Using the background given, I am struck by the failures of the older son as well as those of the younger son. I am so impressed by the father’s demonstration of love despite what others may think or say. The parable now seems more like real life: one son leaving home; one son staying home but refusing to be fully engaged in the family; one father consistently trying to build bridges in place of obstacles; neighbors and friends looking on and possibly commenting negatively about such a dysfunctional family. In telling this parable, Jesus might be saying to us, “This is reality and I’m in the midst of your reality.”

My desire is to accept reality as God’s gift to me each day. I hear Jesus say, “There is nothing that doesn’t belong in the sphere of my care and concern.”

I’d like to respond by being more aware of the real life around me and by seeing all of it embraced by the loving arms of a Father who cares more about me, and my life, than about what anyone else would say or think. I’m so grateful to have had an earthly father who showed me great love and respect, just as the father in the parable.

Lois, you helped us with a very practical approach to Gospel living. Fr. Paul, thank you for really probing the role of both sons in the parable and explaining the father’s generous love toward both of them despite what “the neighbors would think.” I am grateful to our readers and to the two of you for enriching our Lenten reflections with your postings.

Maybe we can end today's reflections by paraphrasing the closing words of the parable, “But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because what was dead inside some of us has come to life again.”

This parable means many things to me - but mainly that there's always still hope for me. I think of myself as the son that strayed, and strays still, yet my Father will take me back. As one of my favorite quotes reminds me "Saints were sinners that kept on trying."

For all of us so far from center, there's still time to return Home.

Luke tells us that this parable was told on an occasion when some scribes and Pharisees were being critical of Jesus because he befriended tax collectors and sinners. This parable has been the spring board for a great deal of reflection in of itself. But what draws my attention today is that fact that Jesus used it as response to those who were critical of his association. In that light it seems to me that both the elder son and younger son both do things that isolate and divide the relationship within the family and in the community. The Father or his part seems to be about looking for opportunities to build bridges and reconciliation. He does that in ways that may damage his own reputation in the community. But he seems to care more about reconciliation or the possibility of it than his own honor. Was Jesus successful in calling the scribes and the tax collectors to a faithful relationship to God? Was the Father in the parable successful in bringing the older son in to the celebration? Is Jesus successful in asking us to look at our tendency to isolate ourselves from others? I think the answer to that will found in who is at our dinner table and in our pew at church. For today I have to say that I have a long way to go. But I am glad that I know I am called to join Jesus on the road Jerusalem and my own surrender of self. I also give myself permission not to like the road rather than take a different rout.

i HAVE MANY FRIENDS AND COLLEGUES FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE. WHENEVER I ENCOUNTER SOMEONE THAT DOES NOT LIKE ME, I TRY TO BE EXTRA KIND TO THIS PERSON. SO MANY PEOPLE HAVE DONE VERY UNKIND THINGS TO ME, BUT I BRUSH IT OFF AND ACT LIKE IT DIDNT HAPPEN. THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT GOD WANTS US TO DO. HE WANTS US TO LOVE EVERYONE UNDER ALL CIRCUMSTANCES. AND HE WANTS US TO FORGIVE EVERYONE, TOO.

Thank you, Sr. Pat, for sharing your insights with us.
I’d like to focus on this question:
1. Have you ever experienced criticism from another for having friends that were not considered “acceptable”? Why or why not? What does the fact that you have, or have not, experienced such criticisms say about the kind of person you are?

I try to be accepting of a wide variety of people, though I always need to grow in that “wide variety.” I have received criticism and I’m happy for it because the criticism indicates to me that I’m living Gospel values. God’s love is so extravagant, it cannot be “doled out” to only the “acceptable.” What I find difficult is to love and care without enabling another to continue unhealthy behaviors and attitudes. I try to love and accept without affirming negativity and self-defeating behaviors. That’s a challenge!

Colossians 3:13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievance you may have against one another. When we don't feel like forgiving we forgive by our FAITH out of obedience to GOD.
Pray for the person who has wronged you. God will give a new insight into that person's heart. .The Father in the Prodigal Son loved both of his children equally. How he rejoiced when the son who strayed returned home. Just as God would do for each of his children. He would rejoice over the one sheep who returns after losing his way. Remember that Jesus has commanded us to forgive.

The story of the Prodigal son teaches me so much. Upon reflection, it helped me to look again at the humility of God and the "weakness" in God's power. God (the father), loves both sons dearly, the dutiful elder son who may have done the chores without joy, as well as the younger son, hungry for food, love and forgiveness. The joy that was celebrated on finding the younger son was great, as if the father had pulled out all the stops. We can all expereince healing as we pray this parable again and again.

Today we begin our discussion of next Sunday's gospel. How has/does the gospel of the Prodigal Son touch(ed) your life?


Sunday: March 14, 2010
Fourth Sunday of Lent
Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

1 The tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to him [Jesus], 2 but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." 3. So to them he addressed this parable.

11 [So] Then he [Jesus addressed this parable] said, "A man had two sons, 12 and the younger son said to his father, 'Father, give me the share of your estate that should come to me.' So the father divided the property between them. 13. After a few days, the younger son collected all his belongings and set off to a distant country where he squandered his inheritance on a life of dissipation. 14. When he had freely spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he found himself in dire need. 15. So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens who sent him to his farm to tend the swine. 16. And he longed to eat his fill of the pods on which the swine fed, but nobody gave him any. 17. Coming to his senses he thought, 'How many of my father's hired workers have more than enough food to eat, but here am I, dying from hunger. 18. I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19. I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers."' 20. So he got up and went back to his father.

While he was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him, and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him and kissed him. 21. His son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; I no longer deserve to be called your son.' 22. But his father ordered his servants, 'Quickly bring the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23. Take the fattened calf and slaughter it. Then let us celebrate with a feast, 24 because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was lost, and has been found.' Then the celebration began.

25. Now the older son had been out in the field and, on his way back, as he neared the house, he heard the sound of music and dancing. 26. He called one of the servants and asked what this might mean. 27. The servant said to him, 'Your brother has returned and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.' 28. He became angry, and when he refused to enter the house, his father came out and pleaded with him. 29. He said to his father in reply, 'Look, all these years I served you and not once did I disobey your orders; yet you never gave me even a young goat to feast on with my friends. 30. But when your son returns who swallowed up your property with prostitutes, for him you slaughter the fattened calf.' 31. He said to him, 'My son, you are here with me always; everything I have is yours. 32. But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.'"



BACKGROUND:
The fifteenth chapter of Luke contains three parables about God’s ability to reach out and forgive. Luke introduces the three parables by saying that the Pharisees and scribes were complaining about the fact that Jesus associated with sinners and tax collectors. Tax collectors were detested because they were notorious for extorting unreasonable sums from their countrymen for themselves and for Rome. Sinners were those whose way of life prevented them from regular observance of the law. Those who had contact with the dead, blood or any unclean animal would all be referred to as “sinners”. The scribes and Pharisees believed that because Jesus was associating with these people, he was sharing with them and should be considered one of them.

The parable that Jesus tells in response to the objection of the Pharisees and scribes is commonly referred to as the “Parable of the Prodigal Son”. Jewish Tradition discouraged fathers from giving their inheritance before death. But even when it was done, the father still retained the right to live off of the property. It was the responsibility of the sons to take care of the needs of their parents. The youngest son, by taking his inheritance and leaving, has abandoned his responsibility to his father. The son, by losing his inheritance to non-Jews, is even further humiliated. But by returning home and working as a hired hand, the son will, in some measure, be able to provide for his father.

The elder son is also portrayed as lacking traditional respect for his father. He longs to celebrate, not with family, but with his friends. He refused to come into the celebration and accept his role as host, a role that should be assumed by the eldest son. His comments belittle his father and his father’s compassion toward his brother whom he refuses to refer to as his brother. He refers to his brother as “your son.” (Luke 15:30)

From the very beginning of the parable, the Father does not act according to the prevailing wisdom. The request for inheritance by the younger son is an insult. By granting the request, the Father’s respect in the community would be diminished. When the son returns the father runs out to greet him, which would be taken as a sign of weakness in this culture. He gives the best robe, which normally would be his own robe, and sandals to his son. He does the same with the ring containing the seal of the family. The young son now has the ability to carry on business in the name of the family. The fatted calf would normally provide food for a hundred or more people suggesting that the celebration is for the whole community. The Father is making a public statement. Even if the people of the community do not respect how he is handling his personal affairs, they will enjoy the fruits of his decisions. The Father also leaves the party to be with the elder son, which would also be a sign of weakness. Again he reaches out to invite the older son, personally, to become part of the family and the celebration. The father is consistent; he is true to himself.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS
1. Have you ever experienced criticism from another for having friends that were not considered “acceptable”? Why or why not? What does the fact that you have, or have not, experienced such criticisms say about the kind of person you are?
2. How is Jesus’ understanding of appropriate behavior different from that of the Scribes and Pharisees?
3. Would Jesus be more effective as a preacher to the scribes and Pharisees if he were more sensitive to them and not do so many things that he knows are going to upset them? What effect would not eating with the tax collectors and sinners have on Jesus’ ministry? Are there hints in the parable?
4. Do you know anyone who has the ability to be with people who others might consider “undesirable”? What do you think of that person? Do they know what you think of them? Why might that be important for them? For you?
5. Within this text are scribes, Pharisee, sinners, Jesus, father, older son, and younger son. Can you see aspects of yourself in each of them?
6. How does the older son approach his relationship to his Father? How does the younger son approach his relationship to his Father? When does your relationship to God, Church, and others resemble more the elder son’s? When does it resemble the younger son’s? When are you able to be like the father in the parable?
7. As you hear this parable today what seems to strike you? Are you aware of changes within yourself as you hear the parable unfold? What does your awareness of yourself say to you about the power of God in this story? How would you like to respond?

Gospel Reflection Questions
Written by Paul Gallagher, OFM
Edited by Sister Anne Marie Lom, OSF
Gospel Reflections are distributed free of charge to your email address if you so choose.
To receive them, contact annemarie.lom@gmail.com

If copied, please include this information.

"MY NAME IS I AM." He paused. I waited. He continued. "When you live in the past with its mistakes and regrets, it is hard. I am not there. My name is not I WAS. When you live in the future, with its problems and fears, it is hard. I am not there. My name is not I WILL BE. When you live in the moment, it is not hard. I am here. May name is I AM." by Helen Mallicoat

"g" what a powerful, incarnational example of giving things time to mature and of enduring intense pain and in the process! Mothers are such a great example of life-giving, sacrificial, unselfish love. Thank you for sharing this example and thank you for being a great mother bearing a "perfect" child.

The video reminds me of the first story that always comes to mind when I hear this gospel reading. (what I wrote earlier was in response to the questions). 18 years ago at this time I gave birth to my first baby. Feb 18, in fact, even though his due date wasn't until March 25.

I went into labor with him on Feb 16, and struggled in labor for 2.5 days. My body was insisting on bringing him into the world but the doctors knew that it was just a bit too early still. He was right on the edge of the dates when his lungs would be developing. He was only at 34 weeks at the time - and wasn't due for 6 more weeks! Lungs develop around week 35.

The doctor described to me that the stress hormones in my body would be those that could help speed up the development of his lungs. They told me that for every minute of time I could hang on, his lungs were developing at a more rapid rate than normal - because of the stress I was going through. She urged me to try to let the labor go on as long as I could, to help him mature his lungs a bit more.

It was the most difficult few days of my life - but my patience paid off. He was born prematurely but with relatively few problems. He was able to come home after 12 days and has lived a healthy life since then. He's perfect.

Sometimes things need a little more time. Sometimes things aren't in our control. Sometimes if we can just wait - and endure some pain and some adversity - great things can come.

A reader sent me this website from Catholic Digest with a brief video on the gospel of the Third Sunday of Lent. I think it's worth your time:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35UOqB7rtc4

Michael - just do exactly what you just did. Just start writing! You're in!!

I am unsure how to participate in this but would love to do so. Can someone help this blog novice?
Thank You
Mike Howerton

I am so grateful for the discussion on the questions posed for our reflection. “g” you are so full of spirit and life you can write everyday if you wish. I’d welcome your insights. I, too, will not forward emails filled with hatred or bias or prejudice. I can state my opinion without putting others down. I must confess that I do stay away and try to avoid negative people. Their energy and attitude seem to “pull” life and hope out of me so I stay away. Those are people I find I can’t be around.

So many of you proclaimed a good, gracious, compassionate God and I see that is the God Jesus shows us in the gospels.

This week is quickly drawing to a close and soon we’ll be on to the next gospel… but for now, we bask in God’s goodness in the present moment and we reach out with that same goodness, graciousness and compassion that God has shown us in Jesus. Thank you one and all for sharing yourselves with others.

These questions about suffering and natural disasters have been asked before and they will be asked again. As humans we do not understand why bad things happen. I don't believe God is punishing people by allowing them to happen. We need to trust that God will bring good out of what happens in some way. I do believe God wants us to do all we can to help others in these and other sad situations. It is up to us to do what we can to help alleviate suffering or to help in times of natural disasters.

In regard to the question about natural disasters: I believe in a loving God who suffers with us when we or any of our brothers and sisters suffer. God does not will natural disasters but I think they do awaken in us a compassionate response. I cannot help but believe that the outpouring of aid across the globe to the situation in Haiti is God inspired.
(And now to Chili as well.) Why do we need such dramatic "wake-up" calls to actively love one another?

Disasters are never easy. They awaken fears, dreams gone, hopes, sadness, and new people in our lives. It calls for trust again in a God who loves us very much and is directing our journey. We cannot always see where God is taking us. We do need to risk and trust Him in this faith journey.
God is always with us, that is a comfort for me---loving us always and completely.

I have so many thoughts, so many things I'd like to say - and the same thing happened last week. I just have too, too much to comment on. I could fill this whole page and more with all the thoughts. I'm not sure where to start - and more importantly - where I'd finish!

I certainly do NOT believe that God punishes people by having bad things happen to them. Accidents, illnesses, misfortune, natural disasters are all a part of life. I do believe that we are given some of those opportunities to learn though.

Tied to this is my answer to the bottom question asked here. Do I find certain people difficult to be around? Recently I've cringed when I have read some peoples' comments about some of the tragedies that have been happening around the world. When I read or hear things that are condemning people in areas struck by natural disasters - as being punished by God. Or when I get emails that are derogatory to our President and others in office. There is so much hate out there, it seems. . . and so often I see these things said and done in the name of Christianity.

I want to fight back - but then - I feel the need to turn the other cheek. To lead by example and try to live my beliefs out loud in a positive and constructive way.

It's a crazy world out there though. I don't feel (like in Quest. 2 below) that I need to be ready for something bad to happen to me, but I do feel that our world is turning wicked so fast, and I do feel that to be prepared I need to not pick up arms and fight, but to be prepared simply and spiritually.

I told you I could write all day. These thoughts are kind of partial. I hope they make sense. . .

Thank you to all of you who commented today. I appreciate your insights and I know it is more beneficial to all when more share. Natural disasters do take a toll on all of us and our “better selves” are often awakened when we reach out to others.

Lois, you asked that I comment on your question: “ So often when one hears of a devastating natural disaster in a foreign country where Pagan or non-Christian Gods are worshipped, we tend to feel that this is their punishment from God. The first commandment is Thou Shall Not Have Any Gods Before Me. But, what if these people have never been exposed or been taught about Jesus Christ? Then, it is unfair to think that their suffering is punishment.”

This is exactly the problem with the type of “theology” that says God punishes through natural disasters or that non-Christians are “less”. God made each and every person in the “image and likeness of God” and doesn’t discriminate against those who worship in various ways. It would not seem to be like God to act in a revengeful way. I always ask someone, when this topic comes up, “What do you see in the gospels about what God is like?” If Jesus acted in kindness, goodness, and included all in his love, that is the picture of God I take on. The gospels tell us about Jesus’ father, God. The gospels tell us what God is like; they say: look at Jesus.

This emphasis on the gospels is very Franciscan and is the reason I chose the gospels for our Lenten retreat.

Blessings on all and keep reflecting and responding!

A couple of weeks ago seven people died in a house fire two blocks from our friary. Those killed include a mother who had just returned from the hospital with her two day old daughter. The single family home had been divided into three apartments that were home for 20+ people. The day after the fire I went down the street to see the house and to offer a prayer for my neighbors who had died, their families, and the fire fighters. My response reveals to me the sense that there is a connection between these people and myself even though I did not know them. This disaster awakened in me the connection between us that is there weather or not I am aware of it. I liken it to what we celebrate at Mass when we pray “Our Father…” If God is our common Father then we are sister and brother. I am disappointed that it takes a disaster to awaken my awareness to this reality that I believe is fundamental in God’s eyes. But I am also grateful for the reminder.

I think God is neutral. There's always a bigger plan.

When such events do occur in a Foreign country where Pegan and non-Christian Gods are worshipped I believe that our God, the Father, Song, and Holy Ghost wants us to help these people and relief them as much as possible from their discomfort, whether it be physically aor financially. This could be God's way of letting those people know about him. Missinaries are at work in countries all over the world sreading and teaching those who do not know about our Lord. Out of the diaster, there could come good news of conversion cases.

`So often when one hears of a devastating natural disaster in a foreign country where Pegan or non-Christian Gods are worshipped, we tend to feel that this is their punishment from God. The first commandment is Thou Shall Not Have Any Gods Before Me. But, what if these people has never been exposed or been taught about Jesus Christ. Then, it is unfair to think that their suffering is punishment. Can you comment on this, Sister. Thank You

If Jesus suffered, and He did, then suffering is part of life. If the Master suffered, and He did, then we who are servants following the Master, to be apart of His life, suffer also. I feel we suffer more at our own hands and at the hands of others around us then we suffer from natural disasters. If we have abused the earth we end up paying for it some way and some things are just a matter of nature's course. These disasters bring out the best in caring people. What about the daily encounters each day: the unkind word; the obvious shun; the unnecessary critism; the impatient glance; the bad words spoken etc. Like I said disasters bring out the best in people. Though we can't stop the natural disaster, we can stop the shooting and the killing, the torchering, the disrespect, the power hungry, immodesty, etc. I look at my life right now and how do I respond to people and situations. How do I respond the the "disasters" right before me. How do I make NOW better for someone right in front of me. Jesus wants us to LOVE and do the best we can for our neighbor right here, right now.

I believe that God loves us all equally. I also believe that he grieves when natural disasters hurt or even take lives.

What happens inside of you when you hear of natural disaster in another part of the country or the world? Do you feel compassion for those involved?

Yes, I feel compassion and would like to help. If an opportunity presents itself, I'll donate to relief in that area. I'll pray for the people in that area.

· Does it remind you of how fortunate you are in being spared from a similar experience? Do you feel like this is a warning to you that you had better be ready because the next time it could be your turn?

It does remind me how fortunate I am to live far from those areas with all the modern support and safety systems of our area. I don't take it as a warning that it could be my turn next time. I live in a wonderful world of complacency or ignorance. What could possibly happen to me here in Wisconsin? I'm not sure how you could be ready for that kind of disaster anyway?

· How do you think God feels for the people directly involved?

I'm hoping God feels compassion. I don't believe these kinds of disasters whether global or personal are a punishment from God. Good things happen to bad people, bad things happen to good people. But then that's good and bad from my perspective. Maybe God doesn't waste time making those judgments? Or maybe that's my lesson in this, it isn't mine to judge.

· What do you think God desires to happen when such events occur?

I think God desires that we pitch in and help out, that it would bring out the best in people not the worst.

I’d like to spark some discussion on these questions:
When there is a natural disaster: How do you think God feels for the people directly involved? and
What do you think God desires to happen when such events occur?

I think that God feels great compassion for people who are victims of natural disasters. God does not intend, plan or wish punishment. We all suffer from the consequences of our own choices, the choices of others or from natural disasters following the course of nature or because humans have abused nature. The God I know is full of compassion and desires us to help one another, share grief and aid and weeps with us when we suffer. God is with us and promises strength and courage to assist us.

Any one have any comments?

One of our readers emailed me this commentary:

I got caught up in thinking about the people of Haiti and Chile. How different people responded both positively (doctors helping, food, water being supplied) while others questioned if these Haitian people were worthy of being helped "after all they have such a lackadaisical approach to life that they just don't make anything of themselves." Both countries are suffering from looters. Again the desperate or opportunistic see themselves as the proper owners of things that belonged to others. With the new earthquake in Chile, our memories will grow even shorter of Haiti, just as they did in our own country for New Orleans when Katrina struck. Dealing with natural disasters brings out the angels and the devils. How are we responding?

The image of pruning and generally caring for a plant seemed to touch both of our bloggers today. The good, compassionate gardener cares for each plant according to its needs. “Shearing away” or pruning can be painful but productive. Fertilizing and watering add needed nutrients. This is where I try to see my attitude toward myself as a compassionate gardener. I need to tend to my real, human needs, I need to nurture my spiritual life, take time to reflect, get enough rest and have supportive friends. I need to watch for the “fruit of my life” to notice if I am really contributing to others. Seems as if gardening in the spiritual realm can be as rewarding as gardening vegetables and fruits. Happy growing to all!

The gospel parables this week really don’t speak to me all that much…and that’s okay….but this is what I heard in reflecting… "What specific practices might be part of re-aerating the soil of your life so rotted parts are shorn away and your "roots" can breathe better?" and this to me is all about the constant reconnection to divine energy….my root. At times I lose that connection (usually under stress) and begin to manipulate others for attention (thus energy) and can actually do quite a bit of harm…This is what I would like to shear away…and I know better….I know that when I am connected to the divine and not sucking energy out of people, I am better able to uplift others to a higher consciousness as well. While there, some really cool spiritual things can happen…so, it’s pretty neat….I just don’t know why I play into my shadow of manipulation so much…I SO know better. But then, re-aerating and shearing are both processes; they take time….so, I guess there’s still hope for me. Happy day!

The background given helped me learn about fig trees. I did not know that they usually bear fruit for 10 months of the year. The patience to wait for the tree to mature for three years and then give the first fruit as an offering, spoke to me of the need to learn to wait and the call to generosity. Lord Jesus, during this Lenten time, please help me to be willing to work with You to dig up the soil of my soul, to be open to all that you want to do in me that will enable me to bear fruit that is good.

Sunday: March 7, 2010
Third Week of Lent
Luke 13:1-9

1 [At that time] some people who were present there told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with the blood of their sacrifices. 2. He said to them in reply, "Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were greater sinners than all other Galileans? 3. By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!

4. Or those eighteen people who were killed when the tower at Siloam fell on them --do you think they were more guilty than everyone else who lived in Jerusalem? 5. By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!"

6. And he told them this parable: "There once was a person who had a fig tree planted in his orchard, and when he came in search of fruit on it but found none, 7, he said to the gardener, 'For three years now I have come in search of fruit on this fig tree but have found none. (So) cut it down. Why should it exhaust the soil?' 8. He said to him in reply, 'Sir, leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; 9, it may bear fruit in the future. If not you can cut it down.'"

BACKGROUND:
The material in this Sunday text is unique to Luke and confronts a basic understanding of people of his day, namely: that bad things happen to people as punishment for their transgressions. There are also some elements in the text that are not immediately apparent to the contemporary reader. Pilate’s deed, reported here, is not substantiated by history but there is no reason to doubt that it did occur. Pilate is representative of an occupying foreign government that was greatly hated. Galilee was known as a center of political animosity toward Rome. To have people murdered while they were in the midst of a ritual, offering sacrifice, and thereby mingling their blood with the blood of the animals being sacrificed, would be disgusting. If Jesus remained silent when confronted with this rumor, he would loose credibility with the people. If he spoke out against Pilate, he could be reported as anarchist.

The other incident mentioned in the text is that some innocent people had the temple wall collapse on them near the pool of Siloam. In both incidents, there is a presumption that the tragedies occurred as a punishment for some sin of the victims. Jesus turns the incidents into a warning for those who have referred to the two incidents. They need to look at their own sinfulness before something similar happens to them.

Then Jesus tells a parable that focuses on the compassionate mercy of God. Luke’s community would see themselves in the parable. The people of Israel were often portrayed as the vineyard of Yahweh. The fig tree that is planted within the orchard would represent the leader of the people. Fig trees usually bear fruit for all but two months of the year. When planted, they are left to mature for three years and their fruit is not picked. The fourth year, the fruit is taken and given as sacrifice. Because this is the third year the owner has come looking for his fruit, the tree would be presumed to be six or seven years old. In the parable, the tree has been sucking the nutrients and water from the ground and yet producing nothing. Those resources could have gone into vineyard. While the contemporary reader might marvel at the patience of the gardener, Luke’s audience would know that the gardener could have suggested giving the tree extra water or pruning but, instead, has suggested nurturing it with more fertilizer and cultivating the soil around the tree.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS
1. Do you think that bad things happen to people as a kind of punishment or sign from God?
2. What happens inside of you when you hear of natural disaster in another part of the country or the world?
· Do you feel compassion for those involved?
· Does it remind you of how fortunate you are in being spared from a similar experience?
· Do you feel like this is a warning to you that you had better be ready because the next time it could be your turn?
· How do you think God feels for the people directly involved?
· What do you think God desires to happen when such events occur?
3. Have you ever found yourself thinking that you are morally better than another? Whether or not it is true, why would you think of yourself or another in those terms? What might be going on inside of you to consider such an idea?
4. How do you respond when you are reminded that you are a sinner and need to repent? When you think of repenting, what does that mean for you? How would that find expression in your daily life?
5. Is there a person in your life whom you find it difficult to be around because you do not think they are a very good person?
· Are you able to appreciate the positive aspects of their life?
· Are you able to identify with the positive aspects?
· How do the parables in today’s gospel challenge you?
· What does it mean in your situation to “dig around something, put manure on it and wait for next year” hoping it will bear fruit?
· How is the attitude of this gardener different than your own?