The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, August 10, 2006
Thursday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Feast of St. Lawrence, deacon and martyr

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 9:6-10
Psalm 112:1-2, 5-6, 7-8, 9
John 12:24-26

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Scripture is rich in direction for our lives in 2006, not just for the disciples in the days of Christ! It is a challenge on a day to day basis to live the life that Christ directs us to live. The readings of today reflect on dying to self and giving to those in need.

The first challenge comes in today’s gospel of John. Christ reminds His disciples that if they’re to serve Him, they must follow Him. It is such a direct, matter-of-fact type statement, and makes sense. It is however a challenge, because do we really and always follow Christ? Sometimes we might be tempted to pick and choose about what we will follow of Christ's teachings. Some things might fit into our lifestyle or time frame, while others might be inconvenient, or seem too costly in human terms.

The readings go on to address whether we give generously or sparingly and that we will reap what we sow. The final point to consider, which cuts across all our giving, is that of our attitude. For instance, do we see Christ in the needy and give with a loving spirit, or are we sometimes a bit sour about it all, thinking perhaps their needs are unfounded?

In conclusion, Christ knows us so well! We want to know how we will be rewarded for giving to the needy. Christ says that person who has served Christ will be "Honored by my Father" (John 12:24-26). Can you just imagine that?

- Joan of Jesus, OCDS
(jmurphy at utica dot edu)