Greetings on this the Feast of Saint James, Apostle
Readings: 2 Cor 4:7-15; Ps 126:1bc-2ab, 2cd-3, 4-5, 6; Mt 20:20-28
Notes: Retreats are life changing.
I think everyone I have ever met who who has been on a retreat came back a changed person for the better. Sometimes, but not often, they can describe it well and allow you to enter into their journey as if you were there too. But most, the experience is so touching, they can barely utter words, and fall over their words to describe the experience.
From St Paul: But as it is written: “What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and what has not entered the human heart, what God has prepared for those who love him,” (1 CORR 2:9)
Or from our responsorial today: When the LORD brought back the captives of Zion, we were like men dreaming. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with rejoicing.
Or from the first reading today: We hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us. Which means when you share your experiences you share the divine life with others.
So many options:
- Cursillo
- Christ Renews His Parish
- Our Lady of Florida Retreat Center with scheduled and spontaneous retreat offerings.
- Local parish retreats (maybe a summertime one near you?)
- Pilgrimages far and wide (Rome, Israel)
Jesus asked: What do you wish?
I wish for each of you, dear readers, may experience a retreat at least once in your life.
First Reading
We hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us.
Everything indeed is for you, so that the grace bestowed in abundance on more and more people may cause the thanksgiving to overflow for the glory of God.
Responsorial
Those who sow in tears shall reap rejoicing.
When the LORD brought back the captives of Zion, we were like men dreaming. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with rejoicing.
Gospel Acclamation
I chose you from the world, to go and bear fruit that will last, says the Lord.
Gospel
Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?” They said to him, “We can.” He replied, “My chalice you will indeed drink. Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.
The sons of Zebedee had specific role and gifts and we continue to benefit from their participation in the life of Christ.
In your own way and within your own circumstances, drink from the chalice.
What do you wish?
We may wish for ‘this’ but get ‘that.
That is better anyway.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry