The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, February 11, 2004
Wednesday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
Our Lady of Lourdes

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
1 Kings 10:1-10
Psalm 37:5-6,30-31,39-40
Mark 7:14-23

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture. . . .

“What emerges from within a man,
that and nothing else is what make him impure.” (Mark 7:23)

God instills wisdom in those hearts who sincerely seek to know Him and desire to live in His goodness. Conversely, Satan instills cunning within hearts that only seek to fulfill their selfish, worldly desires. Today's readings illustrate the importance of humanity's inner life, our remaining in communion with God and fulfilling our responsibility of keeping our hearts pure, loving and life-giving.

Solomon proved his great, worldly wisdom to the Queen of Sheba who rewarded him with money and precious jewels. But of what use are such gains that bring us the envy or admiration of others but which will be taken from us when we close our eyes in death. God desires to give us an eternal gift, the purest of joys and a peace that this sinful world can never give. This human flesh can never be totally satisfied by things, sensations and experiences; our rest will come only when our human spirits, our hearts and wills have become one with God's Holy Spirit.

Jesus speaks of the wickedness that springs from within those who choose the world and self over God and His eternal life. Solomon shows us that temptations will always present themselves and wisdom alone cannot prevent a "fall" from grace. Vigilance plus humility added to a sincere love and desire for God equal salvation.

Lord of all blessings,
pour out Your Spirit upon us,
turn our eyes from this world
by whetting our hunger for Your eternal gifts.
Amen.

- Marie Bocko, ocds
(mlbocko at borg dot com)

____________________

These meditations are also available by email subscription
©1986-2004 The Way, The Truth, The Life

posted by joachim at 4:11 AM