Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint John Chrysostom, Bishop Doctor of the Church
Readings: 1 Cor 12:12-14, 27-31a; Ps 100:1b-2, 3, 4, 5; Lk 7:11-17
Notes: The title not to be mistaken for Universalism.
- Grief is universal experience.
- Salvation is a universal need.
Reflection (Franciscan Media)
John Chrysostom’s preaching, by word and example, exemplifies the role of the prophet to comfort the afflicted and to afflict the comfortable. For his honesty and courage, he paid the price of a turbulent ministry as bishop, personal vilification, and exile.
Chapter 7, Year II.
Yesterday (except we did Holy Name of Mary): The Healing of a Centurion’s Slave.
Today: Raising of the Widow’s Son.
Luke is asserting both Jesus’ concern for Gentiles and for widows. God’s offer of love and restoration is Universal, both Jew and Greek, man and woman.
Grief and prayer. In today’s gospel portion we do not know anything more than the widow and the entire town was in grief over the death of this young man.
- We do not know of their state of sanctification.
- We do not know of their prayers or worship of foreign gods.
- We do not know anything at all except they are foreigners and they are in grief.
Jesus knows.
Jesus raises up.
Like the widow of Zarephath, who was preparing for the death of her and her son given the dire food shortages, she had silent prayer known only to God. Perhaps so silent that she herself did not know she was praying. Yet, the Lord heard the groaning of the Holy Spirit for her. Speculation, yes. Silence, absolutely.
First reading
For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one Body, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free persons, and we were all given to drink of one Spirit.
Responsorial Psalm
We are his people: the sheep of his flock.
Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands;
serve the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful song.
Alleluia Verse
A great prophet has arisen in our midst
and God has visited his people.
Gospel Portion
When the Lord saw her,
he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.”
He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted,
and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother.
God is for you, always.
Jesus knows.
Know him.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry
Deacon Gerry Palermo 