Leadership

Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Pius X, Pope
Readings: Ru 2:1-3, 8-11; 4:13-17; PS 128:1b-2, 3, 4, 5; Mt 23:1-12
Notes: We live in an age where leadership has nothing of the qualities the readings today call for:

• Leading a life of simplicity and community.
• Being mindful of the people for whom you are responsible.
• Care for the Poor and disadvantaged.
• Peace among those who disagree with you.
• Rewarding merit regardless of background.
• Practice the life you preach others should have.

https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-pius-x

From the Franciscan Media site on Saint Pius X, pope:

Reflection (from the same page link above)

His humble background was no obstacle in relating to a personal God and to people whom he loved genuinely. Pius X gained his strength, his gentleness and warmth for people from the source of all gifts, the Spirit of Jesus. In contrast, we often feel embarrassed by our backgrounds. Shame makes us prefer to remain aloof from people whom we perceive as superior. If we are in a superior position, on the other hand, we often ignore simpler people. Yet we, too, have to help “restore all things in Christ,” especially the wounded people of God.

First reading
This humble woman and worthy man had a son.
They called him Obed.
He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.

Naomi nursed him and he was her grandson (not by lineage but by the heart’s desire).

Responsorial Psalm
See how the Lord blesses those who fear him.

Alleluia Verse
You have but one Father in heaven;
you have but one master, the Christ.

Gospel Portion
Leadership is often like this in the current era:

• For they preach but they do not practice.
• They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry
• and lay them on people’s shoulders,
• but they will not lift a finger to move them.
• All their works are performed to be seen.

It is EASY to quote the commandments.

Follow the commandments and you follow the Father and Master not these posers.

Love God and neighbor as yourself.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry