Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Peter Claver, Priest
[In the Dioceses of the United States]
Readings: 1 Corinthians 7:25-31; Psalm 45:11-12, 14-15, 16-17; Luke 6:20-26
Summary
From now on, I should like you to be free of anxieties. (1 Cor 7:29b, 32a).
Reflection
St Paul’s letter portion today deals witht he ordinary difficulties of married life and the juxtaposition of eschatological urgency. He is writing about a form of detachment a Christian must have and could have depending on circumstances.
I tell you, brothers [and sisters], the time is running out (1 Cor 7:29a).
The Sermon on the Plain gives us the four blessings of life that make your decision (to be married or not to be married) equally helpful in the building of the Kingdom.
- Blessed are you who are poor – share what you have.
- Blessed are you who are now hungry – hunger for justice.
- Blessed are you who are now weeping – be concerned for those without or offer your weeping as gift for the human family.
- Blessed are you when people hate you – be a faithful witness that reveals divine love even as others reject that love.
Rejoice and leap for joy on that day!
Behold, your reward will be great in heaven.
Personal Reflection
Paul had big ideas regarding the Christian life (married and single). Just to be clear, none of us would be here if there wasn’t mothers and fathers, so there is that! LOL.
Be blessed in what you do and what you hope for.
Then love as your heart moves you (to marriage or to celibacy).
From now on, live your actual life—married or single, joyful or grieving, accepted or rejected—as someone whose heart is already being oriented toward the Kingdom.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/090926.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry