Today's readings: March 24, 2011
First Reading: Jer 17:5-10 ;
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 1:1-2, 3,4, 6 ;
Gospel: Luke 16:19-31 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Today's word begins with Jeremiah, encouraging us to place our faith and trust in God and not men. It only takes a little bit of living to realize this is good advice. God does not disappoint like men and women do. Oh we may not understand, but given the luxury of time, things that don't happen the way we hoped God would let them happen make all the sense in the world. This thought reminds me of a Darius Rucker song currently on the radio. Check it out. It does work out... give it time and you'll see for yourself that there is no good reason to be angry with God. He does not disappoint.
The Psalter & Gospel reading is also very powerful and speaks to mercy. Basically - God asking you to show mercy and love for those less fortunate than you. The Gospel reading does not speak to the countless blessings from acting this way - but highlights in frightening terms, what happens if you show no mercy. It ain't pretty. So - whether you need a carrot (all the blessing of showing mercy) or a stick (today's warning in the Gospel), make a point to be merciful and open yourself to sharing the many blessings you have received with others who could use a helping hand, a smile or a gentle word of encouragement. Or maybe a meal, time spent with someone who is lonely. I mean, God has given us a world with many opportunities to be kind and merciful. Take advantage of the opportunity.
More tortuous than all else is the human heart,
beyond remedy; who can understand it?
