A Little Faith

Greetings on this the Monday of the Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: Wis 1:1-7; PS 139:1b-3, 4-6, 7-8, 9-10; Lk 17:1-6
Notes:

Devastation of Sin

1. Wisdom reading: Because into a soul that plots evil, wisdom enters not, nor dwells she in a body under debt of sin.
2. Gospel: Cause sin? A millstone around the neck into the sea is better.

Our readings today speaks plainly about three distinct realities:

1. The lack of wisdom of sin.
2. The consequences of sin.
3. The faithfulness and power of God to heal us.

In today’s gospel portion, Jesus described to the Apostles the devastating effects of being sinful.
The Apostles immediately ask the Lord to increase their faith.

This is the beginning of wisdom indeed!
The Apostles know that alone we cannot overcome the twin problem of sin and consequence.

But they do know Faith is the answer to all things and God is able to overcome any distance between us.

First reading

The Book of Wisdom coaches us on our path:

Do List

• Love justice
• Be favorable in your opinion of God.
• Seek him with integrity of heart.
• Trust him.

Avoid List

• Perverse counsels.
• Don’t plot evil.
• Don’t live under a debt of sin.

Consequence

• The holy Spirit will flee you.
• The holy Spirit will withdraw from your counsels.
• The holy Spirit will rebuke.

The Person of God

• Wisdom is kind
• Wisdom knows why and what we do
• Wisdom knows what we say.

Responsorial Psalm
Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.

Our psalmist today is open to the probing and healing of the spirit of God.
Not out of resignation but of confidence that you, Lord, can span any distance..

If I take the wings of the dawn,
if I settle at the farthest limits of the sea,
Even there your hand shall guide me,
and your right hand hold me fast.

Alleluia Verse
Shine like lights in the world,
as you hold on to the word of life.

Gospel Portion
And the Apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.”
The Lord replied, “If you have faith the size of a mustard seed,
you would say to this mulberry tree,
‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.”

A little faith goes a long way.

Trust him like the Psalmist.
Forgive like he forgives.

No matter where, no matter what, no matter when… He is ready to aid us in all our woes and mistakes.

We don’t have to be a prisoner of sin.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry