Greetings on this the Monday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: Jeremiah 13:1-11; Deuteronomy 32:18-19, 20, 21; Matthew 13:31-35
Summary
What does the Lord want? For us to understand that we are to be his people, his renown, his praise, his beauty.
I will open my mouth in parables, I will announce what has lain hidden from the foundation of the world.
Do you remember the first time you heard the words: I love you?
Go far enough back and you may remember Mom and Dad.
Or perhaps the first time you heard it from your first love—even puppy love.
Or the enduring love promised and witnessed in holy matrimony.
And all of them carry the blessed words: I love you.
From the first time you heard them to the most recent, they still gladden the heart.
Reflection
Love is like the mustard seed – once planted – grows to be comfort for all in its vicinity.
Love is like the yeast – silently spreading, expressing and maturing – to become nourishment for everyone.
Even when we are disconnected and radically apart from one another, love continues to seek, remember, and claim us: https://www.diocesepb.org/news/news-and-notes.html/article/2025/01/11/no-one-is-forgotten
Personal Reflection
The Lord loves us and claims us in love, to be his people, my renown, my praise, my beauty.
I love you and name you in fraternal embrace.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/072726.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry