A Letter from Fr. Paul - Sunday, February 25th

Every first Sunday of Lent is a version of Jesus being tempted in the desert (HE IS HUMAN); the second Sunday is a version of the Transfiguration (HE IS DIVINE). In all three biblical accounts of the
Transfiguration, Elijah and Moses appear with Jesus.  They obviously represent the law and the prophets, telling us that Jesus came to fulfil the law and the prophets.
 
But it struck me this year, as I was reflecting on what I wanted to say in the homily and this reflection, that Elijah and Moses also represent something else.  Elijah was looking for God in a fire or an earthquake or a mighty wind, but God came to him in a tiny, whispering sound.  Is that reminding me that I will find God in the silence of my heart, when I take quiet time to be with the Lord? Moses, on the other hand, was the instrument God used to give the Israelites the commandments and laws governing how they should treat one another, how they should honor and respect others and not steal, kill, or hurt them. Is that reminding me that my relationship with God, strengthened when I hear the tiny, whispering sound, has to be lived out with respect and loving concern for others?
 
These two things are what faith is all about.  We need to honor God, recognizing His place in our lives, while building a personal relationship with Him through listening and sharing.  He wants to be a personal friend, not someone we simply adore. But that personal relationship needs to flow into how we treat other people: obeying the commandments so we don’t harm them, but also reaching out to share the gifts of time, treasure, and talent that the Lord has given us.
 
Going to Mass, observing fast and abstinence laws, etc., are important. But they are not ends in themselves: they strengthen us to go out of ourselves and serve others.
 
Lent is a time to slow down, be reflective, and make sure our priorities are correct.  Am I using the sacraments, the Word of God, and the community, as well as quiet time with the Lord, to help me build a strong relationship with the Lord?  A relationship which leads me to treat others with respect, while sharing with those in need? That is what our faith life is all about.
 
As we struggle to grow as disciples of Jesus Christ, let us support each other in prayer. God bless.
 
Church sign of the week: Save money on gas: walk with God.