Let us cross to the other side

Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Thomas Aquinas, Priest and Doctor of the Church
Readings: Heb 11:1-2, 8-19; Luke 1:69-70, 71-72, 73-75; Mk 4:35-41
Notes: The Other Side. Instead of fear, distrust, greed and any number of drivers of our behavior and attitudes.

Let us cross to the other side.

This is where God is.

The Lord defeated sin.
Let us cross to the other side.

The Lord defeated disease.
Let us cross to the other side.

The Lord defeated injustice.
Let us cross to the other side.

The Lord defeated oppression.
Let us cross to the other side.

The Lord rules over creation.
Let us cross to the other side.

The Lord loves creation.
Let us cross to the other side.

The Lord defeated death.
Let us cross to the other side.

Reflection

We can look to Thomas Aquinas as a towering example of Catholicism in the sense of broadness, universality, and inclusiveness. We should be determined anew to exercise the divine gift of reason in us, our power to know, learn, and understand. At the same time, we should thank God for the gift of his revelation, especially in Jesus Christ.

From: https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-thomas-aquinas/

First reading
Brothers and sisters: Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen. Because of it the ancients were well attested.

He references Abraham, Sarah and Issaac as persons who had faith and trusted the Lord.
They had faith in matters beyond the capacity and ability to humans.

1. The Covenant with Abram. Fertility and infertility (Gen 18 and 20). Gen 15, 17 as well. Extended promise.
2. The Testing of Abraham. Life after death (Isaac). Gen 22.

Responsorial Psalm (from Gospel of Luke)
Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel; he has come to his people.

Alleluia Verse
God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.

Gospel Portion
On that day, as evening drew on, Jesus said to his disciples: “Let us cross to the other side.”

[Jesus] rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Quiet! Be still!” The wind ceased and there was great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?”

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry