Greetings on this the Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Easter
Readings: Acts 15:1-6; PS 122:1-2, 3-4ab, 4cd-5; Jn 15:1-8
Notes: Break out moments come but they often come after a pitch battle, pruning, from Stinkin Thinkin.
The Cambridge Dictionary defines “Stinking Thinking” as a bad way of thinking that makes you believe you will fail; that bad things will happen to you; or that you are not a very good person.
https://www.madd.org/maryland/stinkin-thinkin-thoughts/
https://psychcentral.com/lib/cognitive-distortions-negative-thinking
First reading
Some who had come down from Judea were instructing the brothers, “Unless you are circumcised according to the Mosaic practice, you cannot be saved.” Because there arose no little dissension and debate by Paul and Barnabas with them, it was decided that Paul, Barnabas, and some of the others should go up to Jerusalem to the Apostles and presbyters about this question.
It is good to meet.
It is better to meet with an open mind.
This reflection in no way disparages the ancient practice of circumcision. Rather the augured in habit in the set of new circumstances. We need to learn from this example. It took a long time to settle the questions of circumcision and keeping Kosher for People of The Way. A lot of fighting about it too. What things today do Christians hold to that really have lost vitality or, more specifically, have been made mute by the revelation of truth?
Here is my message: Conversion not coercion. Coercion is perversion in light of truth as we have come to understand our faith more and more being built in love.
Responsorial Psalm
Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
Alleluia Verse
Remain in me, as I remain in you, says the Lord;
whoever remains in me will bear much fruit.
Gospel Portion
Jesus said to his disciples: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower. He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and everyone that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit. You are already pruned because of the word that I spoke to you.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry
Deacon Gerry Palermo 