Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint John Vianney, Priest
Readings: Lv 23:1, 4-11, 15-16, 27, 34b-37; Ps 81:3-4, 5-6, 10-11ab; Mt 13:54-58
Notes: Up early. The call came in last night. I get to help AND drive trucks.
The first reading gives us a lovely account of the Jewish festival moments in their relation with the LORD. At it’s core is Joy. Yes, these festivals recount the mighty deeds of the LORD and the overcoming of adversity.
And…
It is JOY to have such a friend.
It is JOY to recognize the miracles.
It is JOY to have a relation with the Divine.
In our gospel portion today Jesus has to deal with a lack of JOY.
Symptoms of the lack of JOY
- The discounting of the works.
- The bias of the low family status.
- The disregard for the teaching and piety.
- The disbelief of the possibility of miracles.
Lack of joy impoverishes.
Lack of joy binds the LORD from helping us.
Have faith.
Have joy.
- Look again at the mighty acts of the LORD.
- Don’t judge by appearances.
- If you have ears, listen to the teaching and feel the piety.
- Be open, always open, to witness the Finger of G-d and the miracles planed for you on the horizon.
First Reading
The LORD said to Moses, “These are the festivals of the LORD which you shall celebrate at their proper time with a sacred assembly.
- Passover. The Passover of the LORD falls on the fourteenth day of the first month, at the evening twilight.
- Unleveven Bread. The fifteenth day of this month is the LORD’s feast of Unleavened Bread. For seven days you shall eat unleavened bread.
- Sabbath.
- Day of Atonement.
- Pentecost.
- Feast of Booths.
These, therefore, are the festivals of the LORD which you shall declare holy days, in order to offer as an oblation to the LORD burnt offerings and grain offerings, sacrifices and libations, as prescribed for each day.
Responsorial
Sing with joy to God our help.
Take up a melody, and sound the timbrel, the pleasant harp and the lyre. Blow the trumpet at the new moon, at the full moon, on our solemn feast.
Gospel Acclamation
The word of the Lord remains forever; this is the word that has been proclaimed to you.
Gospel
Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue.
And they took offense at him.
And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry