Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Lucy, Virgin and Martyr
Readings: Nm 24:2-7, 15-17a; PS 25:4-5ab, 6 and 7bc, 8-9; Mt 21:23-27
Notes: Being honest with God is a very important step to make.
Reflection
If you are a little girl named Lucy, you need not bite your tongue in disappointment. Your patron is a genuine authentic heroine, first class, an abiding inspiration for you and for all Christians. The moral courage of the young Sicilian martyr shines forth as a guiding light, just as bright for today’s youth as it was in A.D. 304.
From https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-lucy
First reading
In the first reading today Balaam is given a gift of insight not given to many.
Even as Balak wanted Balaam to curse the people, Balaam sought the truth from the Lord three times. Three times the Lord shared the providential care for Israel. A blessing, not a curse. And it changes everything for him and for Israel.
He was honest.
When Balaam raised his eyes and saw Israel encamped, tribe by tribe,
the spirit of God came upon him,
and he gave voice to his oracle:
The utterance of Balaam, son of Beor,
the utterance of a man whose eye is true,
The utterance of one who hears what God says,
and knows what the Most High knows,
Of one who sees what the Almighty sees,
enraptured, and with eyes unveiled.
Responsorial Psalm
Teach me your ways, O Lord.
Alleluia Verse
Show us, LORD, your love,
and grant us your salvation.
Gospel Portion
Jesus was confronted with the closed hearts of those in power.
“By what authority are you doing these things?
And who gave you this authority?”
Jesus said to them in reply,
“I shall ask you one question, and if you answer it for me,
then I shall tell you by what authority I do these things.
Where was John’s baptism from?
Was it of heavenly or of human origin?”
“political calculation made”
So they said to Jesus in reply, “We do not know.”
He himself said to them,
“Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.”
A dishonest dialog with God brings no benefit.
But when you see as God sees, wow!
Be honest.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry
Deacon Gerry Palermo 
The theme of honesty strikes at the core of book that I hope to finish in the next couple of days. It was referred by our college friend, Kathy. The Invisible Child by Andrea Elliott is situated not too far from your hometown. May those, who are in most need of receiving and providing HOPE, be granted God’s gifts accordingly to be honest with their means. Peace be with you, Gerry!
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Taking your prompting here I read some abstracts and reviews of the book. Very powerful story!
I cannot comment directly but found Julia’s comments to be a most compelling addition.
https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/57359691-invisible-child
Barry, you are spot on.
Hope is essential for those receiving aid.
Hope is essential for those rendering aid.
May your prayer reach God’s ears!
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Be Honest. True.
On Monday, December 13, 2021, Deacon Gerry Palermo wrote:
> Gerry Palermo posted: ” Honesty Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint > Lucy, Virgin and Martyr Readings: Nm 24:2-7, 15-17a; PS 25:4-5ab, 6 and > 7bc, 8-9; Mt 21:23-27Notes: Being honest with God is a very important step > to make. Reflection If you are a little girl na” >
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May your journey be blessed, Cathy!
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