The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, November 9, 2006
Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Reading I: Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12
Psalm 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9
Reading II: 1 Corinthians 3:9c-11, 16-17
John 2:13-22

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Throughout history, the world has shown respect toward the houses of worship, the house of God. It is considered a tragedy of significance for instance when a church, mosque or temple is bombed or plundered in wartime.

Today's scriptural readings focus on the reality that we are temples of God, a fact that can be forgotten as we move through the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. The reading from Corinthians reminds us that we are to continue building ourselves and others into the city of God. (1 Corinthians 3:9c-11)

God gives us free will to choose those "building materials," to choose materials that are appropriate or otherwise! What a wonderful world it would be if we all fully realized this responsibility! For instance, what clothing would we select each day to adorn this temple of God? How would we carry ourselves, how would we sit or speak with others? Regarding our senses, what would we look at—to allow into this temple? What would we listen to—as musical background for the temple? The considerations are endless! What a responsibility, but how better to use this precious time of ours!

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