Greetings on this the Friday of the Twenty-second Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: Colossians 1:15-20; Psalm 100:1b-2, 3, 4, 5; Luke 5:33-39
Summary
For in him all the fullness was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile all things for him, making peace by the blood of his cross [through him], whether those on earth or those in heaven (Col 1:19-20). [Therefore] Know that the LORD is God; he made us, his we are; his people, the flock he tends. For he is good, the LORD, whose kindness endures forever, and his faithfulness, to all generations (PS 100:3,5). [Joy is primacy] Jesus answered them, “Can you make the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? (LK 5:34).
Reflection
Sunday is a Holy Day (no surprise there). In the tradition of the Church here are things we prefer (but not at the level of absolutely) NOT do on a Sunday:
- Fast.
- Funeral.
- Confession.
- Holy Orders.
- Weddings (as our wedding to Jesus is a Sunday thing).
Jesus is our bridegroom
Jesus is our bridegroom. He is with us always but in a particularly close way on Sundays and in the Holy (unbloodied) Sacrifice of the Mass. Even during Lent (a season of abstinence and fasting) we allow for festive (although a bit muted) meals and celebration. Heck, Saint Patrick’s Day is often given a dispensation. Joy is primacy as the Lord is our God!
There are times for fasting. There are times for burials, lamenting and confession. There are times for anointing for Holy Orders. But the days will come, and when the bridegroom is taken away from them, then they will fast in those days.” (LK 5:35).
But Sundays we rejoice! The victory is assured. The outcomes are for our benefit.
Personal Reflection
Rather, new wine must be poured into fresh wineskins (LK 5:38). Let us joyfully take up and receive the New Wine of the Covenant of Jesus Christ. Rejoice and be glad! Yours is the Kingdom of God.
Footie
Do you sing Happy Birthday to the one you love? Do you ever sing to your beloved how you love them? Why then do people recoil at the idea of Praising God and Singing Joyfully with one another to our God. December 25th – Happy Birthday, Jesus! Easter Vigil – Happy Resurrection, Jesus. It’s not that hard to understand if you understand and experience love.
Sacred Readings Full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/090525.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry