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“You Cannot Mention My Father’s Name. However, I Truly Want You To Use MINE!” – Mark 9:38-48†

26^th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Today’s Content:

·        Dan’s Deliberations, Discoveries, & Declarations

·        Quote of the Day

·        Today’s Gospel Reading

·        Gospel Reflection

·        Reflection Prayer

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Dan’s Deliberations, Discoveries, & Declarations:

As Catholics, we are to achieve a “unity of life”, letting our faith form our political decisions as we prepare to vote this November:

“We have important obligations as citizens. But we have to carry out those obligations always in light of our duty to God” (Archbishop José Gomez of Los Angeles).

We, per Jesus’ “Word”, are to “render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s and unto God what is God’s.” We are called to work for the common good of society, to obey just laws, and to respect society and government. These responsibilities are what we render unto Caesar.

What we render unto God – – IS FAITH. This means that “we can’t forget about the Church’s teachings and the demands of God’s law. We have to make sure our participation and our contributions ALWAYS reflect the moral and religious values we find in the Scriptures and in the teachings of our Church.

When Catholics go to the voting booth, there are NON-negotiable aspects of Catholic social teaching. Abortion, euthanasia, and marriage between a man and a woman, are among those that are non-negotiable!!

However, many issues ARE, and can be, debatable among Catholics. Such issues include the economy, taxes, government spending, immigration, foreign affairs, and helping the poor and marginalized. All these topics are matters for careful judgment – – careful CHOICE. In such areas, we are always going to have legitimate differences of opinion over how best to apply the Church’s moral principles and teachings among members of our faith community.

So, what is a Catholic to do this November when we go to vote for our future? What is important to remember is that we are always think and act with the mind of Christ and the mind of the Church in voting and in other civic responsibilities.

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Quote of the Day:

“We want with all our hearts to love, to BE “love”. When you love people, you see all the good in them, all the Christ in them. God sees Christ, His Son, in us and loves us. And so we should see Christ in others.” ~Dorothy Day, “My Wounded Hands“, Pauline Books & Media

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Today’s reflection: Jesus teaches that whoever is not against Him – – is FOR Him. Are YOU a fan, or a follower?

(NAB Mark 9:38-43,45,47-48) ³⁸ John said to him, l “Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us.” ³⁹ Jesus replied, “Do not prevent him. There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me. ⁴⁰ For whoever is not against us is for us. ⁴¹ Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward. ⁴² “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe [in me] to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were put around his neck and he were thrown into the sea. ⁴³ If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed than with two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire. ⁴⁵ And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life crippled than with two feet to be thrown into Gehenna. ⁴⁷ And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. Better for you to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into Gehenna, ⁴⁸ where ‘their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.’

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Gospel Reflection:

Last week we heard Jesus rebuke His disciples for their arguing about who among them was the greatest. Jesus taught them that the greatest among them will be those who serve the least among us. Today, Jesus’ closest disciple, John, questions Jesus about an “unknown exorcist”, driving out demons in Jesus’ name. John’s question to Jesus, in today’s reading, looks to have been motivated by simple jealousy:

“Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us” (Mark 9:38).

I believe John’s question is evidence that Jesus’ disciples have not completely grasped the meaning of Jesus’ “Words”. These twelve extremely close followers of Jesus continue to compare themselves to others, especially others who appear to have greater healing powers than they possess. They DO NOT want to share the power of Jesus’ name with others. John and the other “disciples” even try to stop the man “because he was not following us“.

Jesus’ reply is, in itself, filled with wisdom:

“Do not prevent him. There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me“ (Mark 9:39).

Jesus strongly warns against jealousy and intolerance toward others who do not follow in His and our particular ways of faith, and leading to making false judgments. In Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian’s:

“Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, [love] is not pompous, it is not inflated, it is not rude, it does not seek its own interests, it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood over injury, it does not rejoice over wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth” (1 Corinthians 13:4-6).

Let me ask you all a question: “Are we not like the disciples when we get upset at the good deeds of others who seem to stand out more than us?” I remember as a child being told by the Nuns teaching at my parochial school that ONLY Catholics would go to heaven. All others would go to Hell, purgatory, or the infamous “limbo” (with the un-baptized infants), and going no further towards a full glory found in heaven. Thank God (literally) that our closed-minded misunderstanding of dogma no longer exists in the Catholic faith today.

All of us have to keep in mind that the Catholic Church was established by Christ Himself, at the “Last Supper”, and it has continued without a break in Apostolic Succession to the present day. Yet, this “perfect” Church is filled with imperfect, sinful souls. All can achieve the glorious perfection of heaven through their individual actions in this world, even without ever hearing the “Words” of Christ. Christ knows all of us BY our works:

“I [God] know your works” (Revelations 3:15);

Christ knows all of us BY our faith and HOW we show our faith through our works:

“Faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:17).

With this in mind, there are many Catholics walking on the much easier road to Hell than much more difficult path to paradise. These materialistic, jealous, judgmental people think they will be saved simply because they attend Mass when necessary, by sending their children to a parochial school, and by supporting their parish and diocese. At the same time, they cheat, steal, tell lies, look at pornography, and so on.

In today’s more medically advanced society, the “demon possession” described in Mark, might be seen as only a form of mental illness. However, the need for healing, including for those with mental illness, was as real for them in the first-century, as it is for us still today. “Exorcism” was a common practice during Jesus’ time on earth. We know some people had the power to heal the symptoms of possession then, just as priests are able to do so now. One of the strategies used in “driving out demons” was, and is still, by invoking the name of a person or figure believed to have the divine power and authority to heal: e.g., Jesus Christ.

The disciples observed that the “unknown exorcist” invoking Jesus’ name was potentially successful in his healing of others (hot-diggity-dogma!!). This unknown healer recognized the power of Jesus’ name as truly having a divine power in itself, even though this “healer” who was not a member of the clan following of Jesus. Even though this “healer” was an “outsider”, he must have believed in Jesus, by the fact of using His name.

In Jesus’ reply to His disciples, He acknowledges that deeds of faith certainly can – – and DO – – precede the words of faith. Our actions are more powerful than words alone. Jesus continues teaching His disciples that they should not be reluctant to share Jesus’ healing powers with others. In other words, we should “spread the wealth” of His grace and its power!!

In Mark 9:40, Jesus’ axiom truly demonstrates a broad attitude, belief, and tenet found in displaying His divine patience, lenience, and charitable tolerance toward others:

“Whoever is not against us is for us” (Mark 9:40).

Even the smallest of considerations are shown to those who teach in Jesus’ name: – – and they will not go unrewarded!! This axiom, this saying, compels a warning: there is NO position for a “neutral” stance where Jesus is concerned. He Himself states to ALL present that they are either for or against Him – – they are either hot or cold. NO lukewarm faith is allowed in His Kingdom:

“I know your works; I know that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either cold or hot. So, because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth” (Revelations 3:15-16).

Jesus goes on further to speak about the positive effects in works of faith; in other words, those who act their faith in their love for God and others are those who are “hot”:

“Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward” (Mark 9:41).

Was Jesus’ exaggerating when He urged His followers to use drastic measures to avoid evil and its harmful consequences found in the last half of this reading (Mark 9:42-48)? (I believe not.) The last six verses (Mark 9:42-48) of this Gospel relate to the consequences of sin on one’s life. Tying a heavy stone and being thrown into the sea, cutting your hand or foot off, or plucking your eye out, in order to save yourself from Hell, is an extremely vivid and morbid image to contemplate. These images make me think of the idea of ALL of His children being part of His Church body. If one of us sins, it truly affects ALL of us. If a “sinner” remains unrepentant, they separate themselves from the Church body (Self-excommunication, which means they are out of fellowship with Christ – – until they choose to acknowledge their sin and repent).

Just as a doctor might remove a limb, or some other part of the body, in order to preserve the life of the whole person, so too must we be ready to part with anything causing us to sin, leading to a spiritual death. Jesus warns His disciples of the terrible responsibility of not putting stumbling blocks in the path of another. Jesus warns us to not give offense or bad example, which may lead another to sin. Even the first-century Jews understood that giving offense, or giving a bad example, is sinful since leads another TO sin. If we lead another to sin, that person in turn may lead still another, until a train of sin is set in motion with no foreseeable end – – and with assured devastation occurring – – unless someone harkens to an inspired conscious and grace, then to acknowledge their behavior as sin, and finally, to ask God’s forgiveness and mercy.

Remember: Christ came to heal; He was the first “medic” coming into – – and onto – – the field of battle: the Jewish nation, PLUS, ALL our individual souls, i.e., the whole human race. His salves and bandages are the Holy Sacraments of the Catholic Church: Baptism, Confirmation, Reconciliation, Holy Eucharist, Holy Orders, and the Anointing of the Sick. They all heal our wounds of sin and strengthen our moral character. Jesus treats ALL who come to Him (His practice is open 24 hours per day) with a pure love. He expects us to treat people with His healing example of love.

With Jesus, there is no longer a need to cut off, or pluck out, anything to gain entrance to heaven. Instead, we are to put on a great gift which Jesus gave to each and every one of us: the sanctifying grace of Himself and His Spirit!! Through a proper faith in Jesus, we no longer have to worry about eternal misery with Satan. After all, “Gehenna” does not sound like a fun place to be:

“where their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched” (Mark 9:48).

Ironically, it is interesting the number of people who end up going to Hell, even though they are aware of the consequences to their earthly actions. There is not much, if anything, written about Hell that is positive. So, why do we sin, knowing our action puts us on this road? The answer is “Satan” Satan is always wanting another soul – – NOT – – to go to paradise in heaven, but instead, to come to eternal misery and pain in HIS kingdom. This is his only goal: JEALOUSY – – to take a soul away from GOD!!

The word, “Gehenna” (Mark 9:44, 46), is an interesting word indeed. It refers to a valley just southwest of the city of Jerusalem. To the Hebrew’s, this valley is known as the “Valley of Hinnom” (pronounced “gê-hinnōm”), or the “Valley of the son of Hinnom” (“gê ben-hinnōm”). Gehenna was at one time the center of an idolatrous cult during a monarchy in which children were offered in sacrifice. This specific place is mentioned in two books of Jewish Scripture, our present-day Old Testament:

“The king also defiled Topheth [a place of torment and punishment where the wicked are sent after death] in the Valley of Ben-hinnom, so that there would no longer be any immolation [killing; sacrifices] of sons or daughters by fire in honor of Molech [a Semitic deity]” (2 Kings 23:10);

“In the Valley of Ben-hinnom they go on building the high places of Topheth to sacrifice their sons and daughters by fire, something I never commanded or considered”(Jeremiah 7:31).

The concept of punishing sinners by fire, either after death, or after the final judgment, is found in Jewish apocalyptic literature:

“Seventy shepherds were judged, and found guilty, and they also were thrown into that abyss of fire. And I saw at that time, how a similar abyss was opened in the middle of the Earth which was full of fire, and they brought those blind sheep and they were all judged, and found guilty, and thrown into that abyss of fire and they burned. And that abyss was on the south of that house. (Enoch 90:25-26**)

** (The “Book of Enoch” is an ancient Jewish religious work, traditionally ascribed to Enoch, the great-grandfather of Noah. It is not part of the biblical canon as used by Jews, apart from a group known as “Beta Israel”. It is regarded however, as canonical by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and Eritrean Orthodox Church, but no other Christian group. ~ From Wikipedia)

“Gehenna” is traditionally used as an image of the invisible reality of the place of eternal punishment written about in the New Testament – – HELL! Saying either Gehenna or Hell, “where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched”, reminds me of another morbidly vivid description found in the book of Isaiah:

“They shall go out and see the corpses of the people who rebelled against me; For their worm shall not die, their fire shall not be extinguished; and they shall be an abhorrence [revulsion] to all flesh” (Isaiah 66:24).

Per Isaiah, God’s enemies lie dead outside the walls of the “New Jerusalem” – – understood to be heaven. As in the time of Isaiah, Jesus’ time on earth also had huge cemeteries of dead and decaying corpses, filth of every type, and societal/human waste scattered about in this “Valley of Hinnom” – – Gehenna – – JUST outside the city. There still are many of God’s enemies surrounding us today – – the “living dead” who have rejected Jesus Christ.

Jesus teaches us NOT to create obstacles for those who are just beginning to have faith, but to encourage even the smallest signs of faith. In the vivid terms of today’s reading, Jesus teaches His disciples the consequences of putting obstacles before people on their road to faith.

The second part of today’s Gospel (Mark 9:42-48) contains a strong message for those sharing the responsibility of fostering faith in Jesus to others, an AWE-some responsibility. Today’s Gospel reminds us that “FAITH” is a continuous, day-to-day, moment-to-moment, lifelong journey toward happiness – – which is God Himself!! We don’t always understand our journey, or even stay on-track at times. However, we should pray daily for the grace – – His grace – – to acknowledge and build upon even the smallest signs of faith, in ourselves, and in others. This is what “HOPE”IS for Catholic Christians. In today’s world, there are plenty of obstacles preventing the growth of faith in many individuals. Pray you are not contributing to the obstacles, thus hindering another person’s continuously growing faith in Jesus Christ; instead continue to choose to encourage and strengthen that faith in others as well as ourselves.

We have a calling to confront obstacles to faith. In dealing with obstacles confronting you, you may be called upon to use courageous, bold, outspoken word, and unpopular actions in order to surmount and break down that obstacle. Perhaps God is calling YOU to break down that obstacle for another. Saint Francis, a loyal member of the Catholic Church, and a radical challenger to Church of his day, broke down many obstacles in his public ministry, always with a sincere love, and with definite actions of faith and love. Saint Francis routinely said:

“Preach the Gospel, and at times, use words”.

Are you being called for a “challenge”, just as Saint Francis was called? In a little, dilapidated, weathered chapel known as San Damiano, Jesus Christ spoke to him with the following words:

“Francis, rebuild my church”!

What is Christ saying to YOU?!

There are many people and things in our daily lives nurturing our faith, and, also attempting to hinder our faith. Those nurturing our faith include: healthy family relationships and friendships, good literature, EWTN, Healthy Church life, retreats, and so on. Those things that might be obstacles to our faith may include: improper relationships, scandals, bad habits, sin, and so on.

Jesus teaches us, in today’s Gospel, that we are to do everything possible to help another HAVE faith in Jesus Christ. We are also to do everything possible to avoid creating obstacles hindering another’s faith life. Pray that you will be a faith-filled Catholic Christian, helping others grow in faith, that you do not create obstacles for others obtaining or growing in faith. YOU ARE the next “unknown exorcist” to proclaim God’s Word and Plan by your actions, and by passing on your faith to the next generation!

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Reflection Prayer:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love.
Where there is injury, pardon.
Where there is doubt, faith.
Where there is despair, hope
Where there is darkness, light.
Where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled, as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive.
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life. Amen.

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Posted by Dan Halley,, OFS. Categories: Apologetics, Bible History, Catholic Church, Franciscan Formation, Humor/Joke, Meditation, Prayer, Quote/Joke, Scripture. Tags: 9:38-48, against, Amen, apologetics, believe, Bible History, Catholic, causes, crippled, cup, cut, Death, deed, demons, die, drink, driving-out, eye, father, feet, Fire, follow, foot, for, formation, Franciscan, Frustration, Gehenna, God, hand, healer, Heaven, Holy Spirit, ill, Intercession, jealousy, Jesus, John, Journey, kingdom, Knowledge, life, Little, Lord, lose, love, maimed, Mark, Mighty, millstone, NAB, name, neck, not, OFS, OFS Rule, One, pluck, Prayer, prevent, prophets, quenched, Reflection, reward, Saint, sea, Sin, Sorrow, Speak, St. francis, Teach, Teacher, temptations, thrown, two, unquenchable, Water, Words, worm, Worthy. 3 Comments

Feb. ’11

“You Can’t Love God If You’re A Catholic!” – Mark 9:38-40†

Today in Catholic History:

†   303 – Emperor Diocletian orders general persecution of Christians.
†   1417 – Bith of Pope Paul II, [Pietro Barbo], Italy (1464-71)
†   1447 – Death of Pope Eugene IV, [Gabriele Condulmer], Italian (1431-47)
†   1455 – Traditional date for the publication of the Gutenberg Bible, the first Western book printed from movable type.
†   1970 – Holy Eucharist is given by women for the first time in Roman Catholic services
†   Memorial/Feasts: Saint Polycarp of Smyrna (died 155).

(From the “On This Day” Blog Site
otday.wordpress.com) &/OR
“Today in Catholic History”
http://www.historyorb.com)

Quote or Joke of the Day:

A man is 72 years old and loves to fish. He was sitting in his boat the other day when he heard a voice say, “Pick me up.” He looked around and couldn’t see anyone. He thought he was dreaming when he heard the voice say again, “Pick me up.”

He looked in the water and there, floating on the top, was a frog. The man said, “Are you talking to me?” The frog said, “Yes, I’m talking to you. Pick me up then, kiss me and I’ll turn into the most beautiful woman you have ever seen. I’ll make sure that all your friends are envious and jealous because I will be your bride!”

The man looked at the frog for a short time, reached over, picked it up carefully, and placed it in his front pocket. The frog said, “What, are you nuts? Didn’t you hear what I said? I said kiss me and I will be your beautiful bride.” He opened his pocket, looked at the frog and said, “Nah, at my age I’d rather have a talking frog.”

With age comes wisdom.

Franciscan Formation Reflection:

A question of people’s salvation. We can all see the urgency of giving a loyal, humble and courageous answer to this question, and of acting accordingly. Such an exhortation seems to us to be of capital importance, for the presentation of the Gospel message is not an optional contribution for the Church. It is the duty incumbent on her by the command of the Lord Jesus, so that people can believe and be saved. This message is indeed necessary. It is unique. It cannot be replaced. It does not permit either indifference, syncretism or accommodation. It is a question of people’s salvation. It is the beauty of the Revelation that it represents. It brings with it a wisdom that is not of this world. It is able to stir up by itself faith – faith that rests on the power of God. (Cf. 1 Cor 2:5) It is truth. It merits having the apostle consecrate to it all his time and all his energies, and to sacrifice for it, if necessary, his own life.

The evangelizing activity of Jesus Christ. The witness that the Lord gives of Himself and that Saint Luke gathered together in his Gospel – “I must proclaim the Good News of the kingdom of God” (Lk 4:43) – without doubt has enormous consequences, for it sums up the whole mission of Jesus: “That is what I was sent to do.” (Lk 4:43). These words take on their full significance if one links them with the previous verses, in which Christ has just applied to Himself the words of the prophet Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord has been given to me, for he has anointed me. He has sent me to bring the good news to the poor.” (Lk 4:18; cf. Is 61:1) Going from town to town, preaching to the poorest – and frequently the most receptive – the joyful news of the fulfillment of the promises and of the Covenant offered by God is the mission for which Jesus declares that He is sent by the Father. And all the aspects of His mystery – the Incarnation itself, His miracles, His teaching, the gathering together of the disciples, the sending out of the Twelve, the cross and the resurrection, the permanence of His presence in the midst of His own – were components of His evangelizing activity.

http://www.ciofs.org/ratio/2010/EN201102.htm

Today’s reflection is about Jesus warning against envy, jealousy, and intolerance toward others; and ecumenism.

³⁸ John said to Him, “Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us.” ³⁹ Jesus replied, “Do not prevent him. There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me. ⁴⁰ For whoever is not against us is for us. (NAB Mark 9:38-40)

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus warns His followers about getting caught-up in the grip of jealousy, envy, and intolerance toward others. Though the “exorcists” who did not follow Jesus Christ directly, – – meaning not with His “group” of followers, – – they were still laboring for God, and are part of His kingdom. We cannot lose sight of the real truth that these men were disciples of Jesus. They were, in fact, acting in the name of Jesus!

Jesus’ reply to His jealous followers is filled with a divinely inspired, and Scripturally-based, wisdom:

“The beginning of wisdom is the fear of the LORD, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)

“All wisdom comes from the LORD and with him it remains forever.” (Sirach 1:1)

“There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me.” (Mark 9:39)

“But if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it.” (James 1:5)

A far-reaching principle is further revealed in the very next verse:

“For whoever is not against us is for us” (Mark 9:40)

This verse reveals God’s divine acceptance, tolerance, and charity. Even the smallest consideration, civility, and good manners, – – especially made known to those who teach in Jesus’ name – – are noticed in God’s eyes, and rewarded in His kingdom.

There is no “exclusivity” with God. There is not a notion of “good is not good unless I am the one who does the good!” In reality, in God’s kingdom, “good is good, even if it is not I who does it!”

An early church father (330-395 AD), Gregory of Nyssa, comments on other individuals performing acts of “good” in God’s name, and out of love:

“God never asks his servants to do what is impossible. The love and goodness of His [Trinitarian] Godhead is revealed as richly available. It is poured out like water upon all. God furnished to each person according to His will the ability to do something good. None of those seeking to be saved will be lacking in this ability, given by the one who said: ‘whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you bear the name of Christ, will by no means lose his reward.’”

From a biblical standpoint, Mark is not the only Gospel writer to cover this specific topic. A very similar version of today’s Gospel can be found in Luke’s gospel:

“Then John said in reply, ‘Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.’” (Luke 9:49-50)

We act similar to Jesus’ first disciples when we get upset at the good acts and words of others; actions and words which seem to “emit a glow” brighter than our actions and words. The Evangelist Paul says that:

“Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, (love) is not pompous, it is not inflated, it does not rejoice over wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth.” (1 Corinthians 13:4,6)

Envy, jealousy, and intolerance are sinful for the reason that these behaviors shows the way for us to grieve, distress, and sorrow over what, in reality as a Catholic, should make us rejoice and be thankful – our neighbor’s “good”! “Envy, jealousy, and intolerance” are disrespectful and defiant to “love”. Love is found instead through rejoicing with our neighbor’s “good”; while envy, jealousy, and intolerance are the acts of grieving over our neighbors “good”.

So, how can we overcome envy, jealousy, and intolerance? There is a very simple answer given in Holy Scripture; again from Paul:

“The love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit given to us.” (Romans 5:5).

The Holy Spirit purifies our love we extend to others. The Holy Spirit also liberates us from envy, jealously, greed, and bitterness – – if we allow Him to work with, in, and through us. The love that the Holy Spirit fills our hearts naturally seeks the highest good of others we meet. So, in daily prayer, simply ask Jesus Christ to convert and fill your heart and soul. That way, you may always be pleased and celebrate the good of others (even those you find unlikable and/or unfriendly).

God the Father created us in love – – to give love. Jesus Christ’s love encourages us to give generously to those in the smallest of need of want. The love we exhibit to others also conveys the appreciation and thankfulness we have for the overflowing righteousness and compassion our Holy Father has towards us.

Have you ever felt “threatened” by other Christian groups? You know; Christians who have a different style of worship and prayer, and/or who act (and maybe react) differently than the typical “cradle” Catholic behave. None of us has a monopoly on God! Remember, Jesus was not Catholic, or for that matter, Christian in His human form – – He was Jewish. The Holy Spirit moves as He wills, and not always in ways we wish or expect.

“The cause of Catholicism is not served by the rejection of other ways of Christian discipleship.” (Fr. Denis McBride, C.Ss.R.)

Jesus is also presenting the idea of “ecumenism”. Ecumenism is once again a very popular concept and topic in today’s Catholic conversations. One in which I rejoice with a glad and joyful heart. I cannot wait until all Christians are home again, back to the first and true Christian Church, – – the Catholic Church (Don’t get mad, please continue reading.).

I know some of my readers are of Protestant faiths and are probably saying, “Say what?!” I pray that I have not upset you too much with my remark. I know you most probably feel the same way toward your denomination as I do toward the Catholic faith. So, please bear with me and you will see that we are also most probably on the same wavelength when it comes to “ecumenism”.

The title I created for this reflection (“You Can’t Love God If You Are A Catholic!”) is a true comment directed to me several years ago. Ironically, it was verbalized in a small crowd of co-workers, and by a person (a friend as well) who is an “ordained” Protestant Minister (as a “side job”) with His own “storefront” church! I attempted to explain to this person about how the Catholic Church IS a faith of Christianity, yet he refused to believe in this fact. He said, “I was not a Christian, but a ‘Papist’”, and he had no need or belief in a “Papacy Religion being Christian in origin”. He had the tightest of closed minds, in my opinion. I honestly believe he felt threatened by my faith. Was the holy Spirit dwelling in him?

However, others in the group that day were impressed with the candor and respect I maintained throughout his “slamming” of my Catholic faith. They were also moved when I approached – – and hugged – – this young man at the end of his diatribe, telling him that I still loved him and would keep him in my prayers.

It soon became apparent to me that several of these people were non-active, apathetic, and/or “fallen away” Catholics. Because of this encounter, I started a dialogue with them (and through the actions of the Holy Spirit) that eventually led them back to full union and participation in the Church.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church has a significant amount to say about Christ working in other denominations and people. I have chosen only two for this reflection, but I encourage you to read much more on the subject while in your daily casual reading of this enticing book of information – – the “Catechism” (Ok, maybe not so enticing, to most). Other denominations and individual non-Catholics may well be “elements” of sanctifying grace granted by God, while still not in full union with the true Catholic Church.

“’Furthermore, many elements of sanctification and of truth’ are found outside the visible confines of the Catholic Church: ‘the written Word of God; the life of grace; faith, hope, and charity, with the other interior gifts of the Holy Spirit, as well as visible elements.’ Christ’s Spirit uses these Churches and ecclesial communities as means of salvation, whose power derives from the fullness of grace and truth that Christ has entrusted to the Catholic Church. All these blessings come from Christ and lead to him, and are in themselves calls to ‘Catholic unity.’” (CCC 819)

Yes, I believe ecumenism can be achieved in our lifetimes. Look at what is happening with the Orthodox and Anglican Churches recently. Protestant Ministers are converting to Catholicism in large numbers recently. God works on His time-table and not ours. All we can do is pray for reunion, and rejoice with every child of God “coming home”. With God all things are possible!

“Concern for achieving unity ‘involves the whole Church, faithful and clergy alike.’ But we must realize ‘that this holy objective—the reconciliation of all Christians in the unity of the one and only Church of Christ—transcends human powers and gifts.” That is why we place all our hope in the prayer of Christ for the Church, in the love of the Father for us, and in the power of the Holy Spirit.” (CCC 822)

At this same time, it seems that a large amount of Catholics are leaving the Church family. I believe this sad event – – an “exodus” – – is due, in part, to poor catechesis since Vatican II. Another reason is the improper, liberal, and sneaky, scheming, and deceitful oversight of the clergy in the past few decades, doing a good job (for awhile) of hiding badly behaved and wayward priests. Thank you Lord, that this heartbreaking and distressing period in our Church is nearing its end.

However, there is also good news for Christianity (the other side of the coin). According to the latest estimations by the International Bulletin of Missionary Research, which annually publishes statistics on Christianity around the world, by mid-2011 the average number of NEW converts to Christianity will increase each day, as the number of atheists drops.

The average number of new Christians per day – 80,000
The number whom will be Catholic – 31,000
The average number of fewer atheists every 24 hours – 300

(source: “Our Sunday Visitor”, February 27, 2011, page 3)

God truly does work in mysterious and glorious ways. It may be hard to follow Him at times, but it is never hard to love Him. At Mass this past weekend, Fr. “Syd” asked a power question with which I will end this reflection today:

“If Christianity were a crime, would there be enough evidence to convict YOU?”

**“Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel”**

“Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do Thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host – by the Divine Power of God – cast into hell, Satan and all the evil spirits, who roam throughout the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.”

Pax et Bonum
Dan Halley, SFO

*****

A Franciscan’s Saint of the Day: St. Polycarp (d. 156)

Polycarp, bishop of Smyrna (modern Izmir, Turkey), disciple of St. John the Apostle and friend of St. Ignatius of Antioch was a revered Christian leader during the first half of the second century.

St. Ignatius, on his way to Rome to be martyred, visited Polycarp at Smyrna, and later at Troas wrote him a personal letter. The Asia Minor Churches recognized Polycarp’s leadership by choosing him as a representative to discuss with Pope Anicetus the date of the Easter celebration in Rome—a major controversy in the early Church.

Only one of the many letters written by Polycarp has been preserved, the one he wrote to the Church of Philippi in Macedonia.

At 86, Polycarp was led into the crowded Smyrna stadium to be burned alive. The flames did not harm him and he was finally killed by a dagger. The centurion ordered the saint’s body burned. The “Acts” of Polycarp’s martyrdom are the earliest preserved, fully reliable account of a Christian martyr’s death. He died in 156.

Comment:

Polycarp was recognized as a Christian leader by all Asia Minor Christians—a strong fortress of faith and loyalty to Jesus Christ. His own strength emerged from his trust in God, even when events contradicted this trust. Living among pagans and under a government opposed to the new religion, he led and fed his flock. Like the Good Shepherd, he laid down his life for his sheep and kept them from more persecution in Smyrna. He summarized his trust in God just before he died: “Father… I bless Thee, for having made me worthy of the day and the hour… .” (Martyrdom, Chapter 14).

Quote:

“Stand fast, therefore, in this conduct and follow the example of the Lord, ‘firm and unchangeable in faith, lovers of the brotherhood, loving each other, united in truth,’ helping each other with the mildness of the Lord, despising no man” (Polycarp, Letter to the Philippians).

Patron Saint of: Earaches

Saint of the Day: Lives, Lessons and Feast
By Leonard Foley, O.F.M.;
revised by Pat McCloskey, O.F.M.
(From http://www.americancatholic.org website)

Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) Rule #’s 23 & 24 of 26:

23. Requests for admission to the Secular Franciscan Order must be presented to the local fraternity, whose council decides upon the acceptance of new brothers and sisters.

Admission into the Order is gradually attained through a time of initiation, a period of formation of at least one year, and profession of the rule. The entire community is engaged in the process of growth by its own manner of living. The age for profession and the distinctive Franciscan sign are regulated by the statutes.

Profession by its nature is a permanent commitment.

Members who find themselves in particular difficulties should discuss their problems with the council in fraternal dialogue. Withdrawal or permanent dismissal from the Order, if necessary, is an act of the fraternity council according to the norm of the constitutions.

24. To foster communion among members, the council should organize regular and frequent meetings of the community as well as meeting with other Franciscan groups, especially with youth groups. It should adopt appropriate means for growth in Franciscan and ecclesial life and encourage everyone to a life of fraternity. The communion continues with deceased brothers and sisters through prayer for them.

Posted by Dan Halley,, OFS. Categories: Apologetics, Bible History, Franciscan Formation, Humor/Joke, Meditation, Prayer, Quote/Joke, Rosary, Saint of the Day, Scripture, SFO Rule. Tags: 9:38-40, against, apologetics, Bible History, Catholic, Death, deed, demons, driving, father, follow, formation, Franciscan, Frustration, God, Heaven, Holy Spirit, ill, Intercession, Jesus, John, Journey, kingdom, Knowledge, life, Lord, love, Mark, NAB, name, Prayer, prevent, Reflection, Saint, saw, SFO, SFO Rule, Sin, Sorrow, Speak, St. francis, Teach, Teacher, time, Words, Worthy. 3 Comments

Sep. ’10

“Jesus Cures a Mother-in-Law – OH MY; NOoooo!” – Luke 4: 38-44†