Deacon Tim’s Column
8-2-09
In the selection from the Letter to the Ephesians, our second reading today, Paul tells us to “put away the old self of your former way of life . . . and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and put on the new self . . . .” The first reading from Exodus and the Gospel selection by John mirror this need for and a call to conversion. In Exodus, the Israelites grumbled because they were hungry and they were unfamiliar with the food that God provided, manna. In John, Jesus exhorts the crowds by telling them not to work for the food that perishes, but rather the food “that endures for eternal life.”
Both the Israelites and the crowds that followed Jesus had a hard time with change. Obviously the audience that St. Paul was writing for had a similar difficulty.
Just as the Israelites would have preferred to stay in Egypt – enslaved – but in familiar surrounds and the crowds Jesus attracted wanted food they could see not the nourishment that Jesus was to give, we, like Paul’s audiences sometimes find it hard to move out of our comfort zones. It’s so easy to become complacent. It’s hard to break out of the rut that we find ourselves in. We can go for years in a spiritual rut, complacent in our relationship with God. We pray, we give thanks, we obverse the externals, we receive the sacraments but there is still something missing. When we truly open ourselves up, when we start to move beyond the comfort level we have built up, this is the point that we start to go on a journey. Just like any journey, we don’t know everything that we’re going to encounter. When we do encounter new things, when we stretch ourselves, that’s when the trip gets interesting. This spiritual journey that we are all invited on is ours for the asking. The more we travel, the more adept we become with change. The more that we follow the guidance of the Spirit working within us, the more we can accept the accompanying challenges.
Despite being with Jesus, traveling with him and listening to him, the Apostles stayed in a safe place—very complacent (and also very confused). That completely and totally changed on Pentecost. The Spirit came down and set them “on fire” for the Lord. Jesus before the Ascension promised to send the Spirit to be with his Church and to finish his work in the souls of the Apostles and disciples. We’re offered that same Spirit. We’re offered all those same gifts—wisdom—understanding—counsel—fortitude (courage)—knowledge—piety and an incredible awe of God and a new appreciation of his workings in our lives. When we open our minds and hearts to the Spirit, absolutely incredible things happen. We fall deeper and deeper in love with God and more open to God’s love for us. As we deepen this relationship, the Spirit penetrates our weakness with strength. We become protected more and more from the distractions of the “world.” As we deepen our life in the Spirit, many of our doubts dissolve and we experience an incredible, wonderful ongoing healing in our heart, soul and mind. In other words, we become “on fire” with the Spirit just as the Apostles did.
I was talking to a very spiritual friend this week about this feeling of being “on fire.” My friend had a difficult time understanding this because she has always had a very unique and deep relationship with the Spirit for as long as she can remember. When you haven’t had this deep relationship though, when you’ve grown complacent, when the Spirit finally penetrates your outer shell, it is the most incredible, awesome feeling imaginable. Once you start this journey in the Spirit, I can promise you that you won’t want to be complacent. You’re going to want to be more and more Spirit filled and deeper in love with God.
Grace and peace to you and your families.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
deacontim@tds.net
http://shamrockdeacon.blogspot.com
Availability: M-F 9a-10a, W 4p-6:30p, (M-F 10a-6p by appointment).
Thursday, July 23, 2009
17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Deacon Tim’s Column
July 26, 2009
The first reading today (from 1Kings) and the Gospel selection (John) both deal with hungry crowds and divine intervention. The feeding of the hungry crowd was a pre-figuring of the Eucharist. Jesus came to nourish the body and the soul.
We live in a skeptical age. Miracles are so much “fluff” and if they did happen at all it was a very long time ago. Whenever I read the Gospel accounts of the miracle of the loaves and fishes my mind shifts from Palestine 2000 years ago to the 20th and 21st centuries. Some theologians and writers try to explain away the loaves and fishes in ways that are not miraculous. They have a range of theories and explanations. I can tell you that, with all due respect, these theologians and writers are wrong—completely, totally and unequivocally wrong.
If the Spirit can work these kind of miracles today, Christ most certainly wouldn’t have had any problem multiplying the loaves and fishes.
During the Great Depression in Detroit (the first one, not the one now) the Capuchins opened a soup kitchen (still operating today). On at least a couple occasions Solanus Casey acted as a conduit for God. The monastery on one occasion ran out of bread. Fr. Solanus in his mild way wasn’t worried. “God will provide.” Those waiting to be fed joined in prayer with Solanus and when they finished a baker came to the front door with a big basket of food. On another occasion with the ranks of the homeless and desperately poor swelling as the Depression deepened, a bread truck made a delivery at the monastery. There was obviously not enough to feed everyone. Fr. Solanus again prayed and they started to unload the truck. Enough bread was unloaded to feed everyone. The thing is though, that the quantity of bread unloaded far exceeded the capacity of the truck.
In 1972, a Jesuit by the name of Rick Thomas ran a bible study class in El Paso. El Paso, Texas is directly across from Juarez, Mexico and the home to the “Dump People” – people who live in the garbage dump and scrounge for food and usable items that can be sold so they can eke out some kind of a living (as meager as it is). Fr. Rick’s Bible study decided to follow the gospel and prepared Christmas dinner for the men, women and children living in the dump. It was pot-luck. Some brought bologna sandwiches, others some fruit, tamales and burritos, candy and one ham. They had food for about 125 people. When the Bible study group started serving, more and more people appeared. In all, somewhere around 350 people wer3e fed. Everyone got full portions, everyone was able to take bags of food back to their homes and there was more than enough left over to take to two orphanages. The one ham—well, those serving it kept slicing and slicing and everyone of the 350 got ham slices with enough left over to take home and to take to the orphanages.
Christmas 2002 in the Cass Corridor. A complete Christmas dinner was fixed, turkey, dressing, potatoes, gravy, dessert—the works. Enough was prepared for 225 (maybe 250 people if it was stretched). Everyone who came was fed. The last person came, got a full meal and that was the end of the food. Later it was learned that it wasn’t 250 people who were served but around 430 people.
What do these four events have in common with today’s Gospel. Obviously it’s Christ’s love of the poor and the power of prayer and faith.
Peace to you and your families.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
deacontim@tds.net
http://shamrockdeacon.blogspot.com
PBJ-In almost seven years this is the first time that I have ever come to you to ask for financial help. I don’t have to be reminded on how bad things are economically. Because of this downturn in the economy our outlay of assistance has been stretched. Of course our primary mission is to feed and clothe the homeless and marginalized poor in the Cass Corridor and in SE Michigan. That will never change. What has changed though is where the requests for help are coming from. At least 95% of those in desperate need of help are in Western Wayne County (Plymouth-Canton-Westland-Northville). The PBJ has turned into a last chance resource. Obviously we are not equipped to handle everyone who needs help. I firmly believe that the people who come to us are inspired by the Spirit. I could give example after example of talking to people, meeting with them, interacting with them only to find out at the very end that they have no place to turn. Up to this point we have been able to help those who most need help. We are now barely meeting our monthly expenses for food and other items that we give out on Saturday morning at Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and Third in Detroit. In other words, we are cut down to no “frills.” That means that those individuals who need help the most will not be able to receive it.
This article is the hardest one I’ve ever had to write. I hate asking you to burden yourselves with even more financial outlay than you have now. If there was any other way, I would do it. There isn’t. Please help. If it is impossible to help financially, please pray to the Holy Spirit for help and guidance for this ministry. (Even if you can help financially, please pray too.) In know that through prayers, trust and faith, all things can be accomplished.
In Christ’s Peace
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
CLOTHES CLOSET: At some point we hope to be moving our operation from the “Gathering Space” to the garage at the old rectory. Until that time, we WILL BE OPERATING FROM THE GATHERING SPACE. I know this isn’t the ideal situation but please bear with us. The clothes we have received are absolutely incredible. ANYONE who needs business clothes (whether you are entering the job market for the first time or re-entering the job market) please give me a call. I’m available most of the time. There is no cost to this service and it is completely confidential. Deacon Tim
July 26, 2009
The first reading today (from 1Kings) and the Gospel selection (John) both deal with hungry crowds and divine intervention. The feeding of the hungry crowd was a pre-figuring of the Eucharist. Jesus came to nourish the body and the soul.
We live in a skeptical age. Miracles are so much “fluff” and if they did happen at all it was a very long time ago. Whenever I read the Gospel accounts of the miracle of the loaves and fishes my mind shifts from Palestine 2000 years ago to the 20th and 21st centuries. Some theologians and writers try to explain away the loaves and fishes in ways that are not miraculous. They have a range of theories and explanations. I can tell you that, with all due respect, these theologians and writers are wrong—completely, totally and unequivocally wrong.
If the Spirit can work these kind of miracles today, Christ most certainly wouldn’t have had any problem multiplying the loaves and fishes.
During the Great Depression in Detroit (the first one, not the one now) the Capuchins opened a soup kitchen (still operating today). On at least a couple occasions Solanus Casey acted as a conduit for God. The monastery on one occasion ran out of bread. Fr. Solanus in his mild way wasn’t worried. “God will provide.” Those waiting to be fed joined in prayer with Solanus and when they finished a baker came to the front door with a big basket of food. On another occasion with the ranks of the homeless and desperately poor swelling as the Depression deepened, a bread truck made a delivery at the monastery. There was obviously not enough to feed everyone. Fr. Solanus again prayed and they started to unload the truck. Enough bread was unloaded to feed everyone. The thing is though, that the quantity of bread unloaded far exceeded the capacity of the truck.
In 1972, a Jesuit by the name of Rick Thomas ran a bible study class in El Paso. El Paso, Texas is directly across from Juarez, Mexico and the home to the “Dump People” – people who live in the garbage dump and scrounge for food and usable items that can be sold so they can eke out some kind of a living (as meager as it is). Fr. Rick’s Bible study decided to follow the gospel and prepared Christmas dinner for the men, women and children living in the dump. It was pot-luck. Some brought bologna sandwiches, others some fruit, tamales and burritos, candy and one ham. They had food for about 125 people. When the Bible study group started serving, more and more people appeared. In all, somewhere around 350 people wer3e fed. Everyone got full portions, everyone was able to take bags of food back to their homes and there was more than enough left over to take to two orphanages. The one ham—well, those serving it kept slicing and slicing and everyone of the 350 got ham slices with enough left over to take home and to take to the orphanages.
Christmas 2002 in the Cass Corridor. A complete Christmas dinner was fixed, turkey, dressing, potatoes, gravy, dessert—the works. Enough was prepared for 225 (maybe 250 people if it was stretched). Everyone who came was fed. The last person came, got a full meal and that was the end of the food. Later it was learned that it wasn’t 250 people who were served but around 430 people.
What do these four events have in common with today’s Gospel. Obviously it’s Christ’s love of the poor and the power of prayer and faith.
Peace to you and your families.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
deacontim@tds.net
http://shamrockdeacon.blogspot.com
PBJ-In almost seven years this is the first time that I have ever come to you to ask for financial help. I don’t have to be reminded on how bad things are economically. Because of this downturn in the economy our outlay of assistance has been stretched. Of course our primary mission is to feed and clothe the homeless and marginalized poor in the Cass Corridor and in SE Michigan. That will never change. What has changed though is where the requests for help are coming from. At least 95% of those in desperate need of help are in Western Wayne County (Plymouth-Canton-Westland-Northville). The PBJ has turned into a last chance resource. Obviously we are not equipped to handle everyone who needs help. I firmly believe that the people who come to us are inspired by the Spirit. I could give example after example of talking to people, meeting with them, interacting with them only to find out at the very end that they have no place to turn. Up to this point we have been able to help those who most need help. We are now barely meeting our monthly expenses for food and other items that we give out on Saturday morning at Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and Third in Detroit. In other words, we are cut down to no “frills.” That means that those individuals who need help the most will not be able to receive it.
This article is the hardest one I’ve ever had to write. I hate asking you to burden yourselves with even more financial outlay than you have now. If there was any other way, I would do it. There isn’t. Please help. If it is impossible to help financially, please pray to the Holy Spirit for help and guidance for this ministry. (Even if you can help financially, please pray too.) In know that through prayers, trust and faith, all things can be accomplished.
In Christ’s Peace
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
CLOTHES CLOSET: At some point we hope to be moving our operation from the “Gathering Space” to the garage at the old rectory. Until that time, we WILL BE OPERATING FROM THE GATHERING SPACE. I know this isn’t the ideal situation but please bear with us. The clothes we have received are absolutely incredible. ANYONE who needs business clothes (whether you are entering the job market for the first time or re-entering the job market) please give me a call. I’m available most of the time. There is no cost to this service and it is completely confidential. Deacon Tim
16th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Deacon Tim’s Column
7-19-09
On this 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Gospel (according to Mark) sets out two very important aspects of ministry. The first is rest. The second is availability. Please keep in mind that this is ministry, not just ordained ministry but the ministry that all of us are called to by the very fact of our baptism. None of us are exempt from this call to ministry.
The Apostles had been teaching and healing and they reported the same to Jesus. His response was that they should go away by themselves and rest.
Probably one of the hardest aspects of any kind of ministry is to take your own advice. Jesus saw the need to rest. So many in ministry can’t appreciate that. Rest! There is so much to do, so many to help, so much to teach. For so many, it’s give me a phone booth and I’ll change into “Super Minister.” Able to leap tall buildings and to do extra-human tasks no matter what the cost. It is a liability of ministry. One example you might want to consider is the comparison between ministry and flying. Before you take off the flight attendant gives some instructions. First is how to use the seat belt. Most of us don’t need that particular instruction, we’re faced with it day in and day out. Then they say, “if the cabin loses pressure, oxygen masks drop down. If you are traveling with someone who needs help, put the mask on yourself first!” If you pass out, you are no good to anyone else. The same is true of all ministry—if you aren’t healthy then you can’t help anyone else.
In the Gospel though, Jesus goes on to tell us that it is so important to attend to the needs of others. Despite his desire to rest and his desire that the Apostles rest, they respond to the needs of those who needed ministering to. Each of us has to recognize that in order to be successful ministers we have to be well balanced. We have to realize that while the Spirit gives us strength and guidance, we have to cooperate.
How can something so simple be so difficult? Spirit gives us the strength, desire and ability to minister. Spirit also gives us the wisdom, the understanding, the fortitude and knowledge of how much we can do and when we can do it.
For all of you who minister to our brothers and sisters by your gifts, talents and generosity, “THANK YOU!” Without you, no outreach, no ministry would be successful.
Grace and peace to you and your families.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
deacontim@tds.net
http://shamrockdeacon.blogspot.com
DEACON TIM –AVAILABILITY
Wednesday - OPEN – (4p until 6:30p) After the 8a Mass M- F (9a – 10a)
Before Tuesday devotions (5p - 7:15p) By appointment anytime M - F (9a- 6p) Deacon Tim (734-502-1818)
PBJ: In this extremely difficult time, we are, just like every other charity. We are being stretched to our limits. Probably 90% of the requests that we have for help now are coming not from downtown (Cass Corridor) but from Western Wayne County. Please pray for our brothers and sisters who are going through horribly extreme economic times. Families and seniors are being evicted from their homes, health considerations are driving people to bankruptcy and despair. In the following weeks I’m going to be covering this new aspect of our ministry in greater detail.
CLOTHES CLOSET: At some point we hope to be moving our operation from the “Gathering Space” to the garage at the old rectory. Until that time, we WILL BE OPERATING FROM THE GATHERING SPACE. I know this isn’t the ideal situation but please bear with us. The clothes we have received are absolutely incredible. ANYONE who needs business clothes (whether you are entering the job market for the first time or re-entering the job market) please give me a call. I’m available most of the time. There is no cost to this service and it is completely confidential.
7-19-09
On this 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Gospel (according to Mark) sets out two very important aspects of ministry. The first is rest. The second is availability. Please keep in mind that this is ministry, not just ordained ministry but the ministry that all of us are called to by the very fact of our baptism. None of us are exempt from this call to ministry.
The Apostles had been teaching and healing and they reported the same to Jesus. His response was that they should go away by themselves and rest.
Probably one of the hardest aspects of any kind of ministry is to take your own advice. Jesus saw the need to rest. So many in ministry can’t appreciate that. Rest! There is so much to do, so many to help, so much to teach. For so many, it’s give me a phone booth and I’ll change into “Super Minister.” Able to leap tall buildings and to do extra-human tasks no matter what the cost. It is a liability of ministry. One example you might want to consider is the comparison between ministry and flying. Before you take off the flight attendant gives some instructions. First is how to use the seat belt. Most of us don’t need that particular instruction, we’re faced with it day in and day out. Then they say, “if the cabin loses pressure, oxygen masks drop down. If you are traveling with someone who needs help, put the mask on yourself first!” If you pass out, you are no good to anyone else. The same is true of all ministry—if you aren’t healthy then you can’t help anyone else.
In the Gospel though, Jesus goes on to tell us that it is so important to attend to the needs of others. Despite his desire to rest and his desire that the Apostles rest, they respond to the needs of those who needed ministering to. Each of us has to recognize that in order to be successful ministers we have to be well balanced. We have to realize that while the Spirit gives us strength and guidance, we have to cooperate.
How can something so simple be so difficult? Spirit gives us the strength, desire and ability to minister. Spirit also gives us the wisdom, the understanding, the fortitude and knowledge of how much we can do and when we can do it.
For all of you who minister to our brothers and sisters by your gifts, talents and generosity, “THANK YOU!” Without you, no outreach, no ministry would be successful.
Grace and peace to you and your families.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
deacontim@tds.net
http://shamrockdeacon.blogspot.com
DEACON TIM –AVAILABILITY
Wednesday - OPEN – (4p until 6:30p) After the 8a Mass M- F (9a – 10a)
Before Tuesday devotions (5p - 7:15p) By appointment anytime M - F (9a- 6p) Deacon Tim (734-502-1818)
PBJ: In this extremely difficult time, we are, just like every other charity. We are being stretched to our limits. Probably 90% of the requests that we have for help now are coming not from downtown (Cass Corridor) but from Western Wayne County. Please pray for our brothers and sisters who are going through horribly extreme economic times. Families and seniors are being evicted from their homes, health considerations are driving people to bankruptcy and despair. In the following weeks I’m going to be covering this new aspect of our ministry in greater detail.
CLOTHES CLOSET: At some point we hope to be moving our operation from the “Gathering Space” to the garage at the old rectory. Until that time, we WILL BE OPERATING FROM THE GATHERING SPACE. I know this isn’t the ideal situation but please bear with us. The clothes we have received are absolutely incredible. ANYONE who needs business clothes (whether you are entering the job market for the first time or re-entering the job market) please give me a call. I’m available most of the time. There is no cost to this service and it is completely confidential.
Monday, July 6, 2009
DO ANIMALS GO TO HEAVEN?
DO ANIMALS GO TO HEAVEN?
Last week I was asked that question and my answer was yes, I think they do. Now why? Remember God never made “throw-aways.” In Genesis God created man and animals on the same day. “Then God said, ‘Let the earth bring forth all kinds of living creatures: cattle, creeping things, and wild animals of all kinds.’ And so it happened: God made all kinds of wild animals, all kinds of cattle, and all kinds of creeping things of the earth. God saw how good it was. Then God said: ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and the cattle, and over all the wild animals and all the creatures that crawl on the ground.’ God created man in his image; in the divine image he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them, saying: ‘Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth." Theologians are split whether animals go to heaven or not. Do animals have souls? Yes. They have material souls—their life force. Are these souls eternal like ours, well, no but—keep in mind a couple of things.
First, none of us know what heaven is like. We know that we will be in God’s presence and that it’s eternal but that’s about it. God will be our main focus. But, that doesn’t mean that we won’t be able to appreciate each other and the beauty of our heavenly paradise. Try to remain open to the possibility that part of this enjoyment might well include our pets.
Peter Kreeft, a professor of philosophy at Boston College tells us that “pets, like everything else in this world, can mediate God’s love and goodness to us and train us for our union with him, or that can distract us from him. In heaven, everything mediates and nothing distracts.” C.S. Lewis, the great Christian writer pointed out that even in our life our pets sometimes become an important part of our lives, almost an extension of who we are. Their association with us elevates them to a higher kind of life than they would have had on their own. In this way it seems to me possible that certain animals may have immortality, not in them selves, but in the immortality of their masters.”
Just a couple of points on a less intellectual level. God wants us to be totally happy in heaven. If our dog or cat or favorite pet will help this process, knowing that God can resurrect us, I have no doubt that he could resurrect a dog or a cat too.
Imagine the seeing eye dog devoted to its master. Think of the cat who is the only friend and companion of an elderly person. Think of the devoted dog or cat that never leaves the side of their chronically and perhaps terminally ill master. I find it impossible to believe that God, who is all loving and all compassionate will not in some way reward this loyalty. And, theologians notwithstanding, God can do anything! (If you are interested in more articles on this topic, just “Google” “Are there Animals in Heaven.”)
Last week I was asked that question and my answer was yes, I think they do. Now why? Remember God never made “throw-aways.” In Genesis God created man and animals on the same day. “Then God said, ‘Let the earth bring forth all kinds of living creatures: cattle, creeping things, and wild animals of all kinds.’ And so it happened: God made all kinds of wild animals, all kinds of cattle, and all kinds of creeping things of the earth. God saw how good it was. Then God said: ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and the cattle, and over all the wild animals and all the creatures that crawl on the ground.’ God created man in his image; in the divine image he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them, saying: ‘Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth." Theologians are split whether animals go to heaven or not. Do animals have souls? Yes. They have material souls—their life force. Are these souls eternal like ours, well, no but—keep in mind a couple of things.
First, none of us know what heaven is like. We know that we will be in God’s presence and that it’s eternal but that’s about it. God will be our main focus. But, that doesn’t mean that we won’t be able to appreciate each other and the beauty of our heavenly paradise. Try to remain open to the possibility that part of this enjoyment might well include our pets.
Peter Kreeft, a professor of philosophy at Boston College tells us that “pets, like everything else in this world, can mediate God’s love and goodness to us and train us for our union with him, or that can distract us from him. In heaven, everything mediates and nothing distracts.” C.S. Lewis, the great Christian writer pointed out that even in our life our pets sometimes become an important part of our lives, almost an extension of who we are. Their association with us elevates them to a higher kind of life than they would have had on their own. In this way it seems to me possible that certain animals may have immortality, not in them selves, but in the immortality of their masters.”
Just a couple of points on a less intellectual level. God wants us to be totally happy in heaven. If our dog or cat or favorite pet will help this process, knowing that God can resurrect us, I have no doubt that he could resurrect a dog or a cat too.
Imagine the seeing eye dog devoted to its master. Think of the cat who is the only friend and companion of an elderly person. Think of the devoted dog or cat that never leaves the side of their chronically and perhaps terminally ill master. I find it impossible to believe that God, who is all loving and all compassionate will not in some way reward this loyalty. And, theologians notwithstanding, God can do anything! (If you are interested in more articles on this topic, just “Google” “Are there Animals in Heaven.”)
15th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Deacon Tim’s Column
7-12-09
On this 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time the readings deal with discipleship and faith. In the first reading from the Prophet Amos we have Amos being selected by the Lord as a prophet. The Land of Israel was split into two sections, the Kingdom of Israel in the north and the Kingdom of Judah in the south. It was from this southern kingdom that Amos was selected by the Lord to be his prophet and to preach in the Kingdom of Israel. The Kingdom of Israel at that time was ruled by Jeroboam and his chief priest was Amazaih. Amos had been called by God as a prophet (he had been a simple shepherd). In his wildest dreams Amos probably wouldn’t have guessed that he was going to be chosen as a prophet, especially to the Kingdom of Israel. Sometimes God selects the most unlikely and if anyone fit this description for an unlikely prophet it would have been Amos. The problem was that the Chief Priest Amaziah and the prophets of Israel were “yes men.” They told King Jeroboam what he wanted to hear and not the truth. Obviously that wasn’t what God wanted so he selected Amos to be his prophet (and that probably wasn’t what Amos would have wanted to hear either). Despite his reluctance God knew he could and would speak the truth even if it wasn’t what the King wanted to hear.
We’re faced with a not too different situation in the Gospel. Jesus sent the twelve out two by two to be missionaries. The only thing they could take was a walking stick and the clothes on their back – no food, no money, no pack on their back. Imagine what they must have thought. Today, the Jesuits do the same thing. Part of the formation of a Jesuit novice is to be given the task of leaving the Province and to go across country with no money and no plans. From conversations I’ve had with some of them, this is one of the harder parts of their formation (at least when they first start their journey, but also one of the most rewarding).
Jesus also gives words of caution. When you enter a house stay there until you leave, if you are not welcome, leave. Remember at this time and growing increasingly stronger there was a deep prejudice against this new religious sect. Both the Jews and Romans viewed them very suspiciously. The Jews thought they were blasphemers as well as a group that could upset status quo, and the Romans viewed them as a threat to the peace. This was the milieu that the Apostles found themselves thrust into.
Amos had great faith and dedication and so did the Apostles. When I look at the faith they displayed I feel very inadequate. I’m often reminded of the prayer “Oh God help me in my unbelief and strengthen my faith.”
Amos bucked the prevailing thought of telling the King just what he wanted to hear. The Apostles preached and their preaching was contrary to the attitudes of the time, both Jew and Gentile alike.
We’re in a position not too unlike Amos and the Apostles. What we preach—or at least what we should preach is for many in our society a ridiculous position. As Paul said, “For Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those who are called, Jews and Greeks alike, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.”(1Cor.1:22-25)
We often find it easy not to follow the words of Jesus. For whatever reason we find ourselves in the person of the priest Amaziah and the false prophets, except, instead of telling the king what he wants to hear we tell ourselves what we want to hear. When you consider the Gospel message it is really quite simple. Jesus was very clear and concise (and definite) in his message. He never gave options nor did he ever make suggestions, he gave commands.
When Jesus sent the Apostles out he gave them a very specific mission to preach repentance, drive out demons and cure the sick. We’re just like the Apostles, sent by Christ for a task. Here are some questions to think about. When did Jesus send you out as an apostle? What mission is he giving you? What does it mean for you to be an apostle? How are you fulfilling your mission as his apostle? These are questions directed at all of us.
Peace and blessings to you and your families.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
deacontim@tds.net
http://shamrockdeacon.blogspot.com
DEACON TIM – ADDITIONAL AVAILABILITY
I’ll continue to be available on Wednesdays from 4p until 6:30p for anyone who wants to drop in and am also generally available after the 8a Mass Monday through Friday (9a – 10a) and before Tuesday evening devotions from 5p - 7:15p. I’m also available by appointment Monday through Friday from 9a until 6p (734-502-1818)
7-12-09
On this 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time the readings deal with discipleship and faith. In the first reading from the Prophet Amos we have Amos being selected by the Lord as a prophet. The Land of Israel was split into two sections, the Kingdom of Israel in the north and the Kingdom of Judah in the south. It was from this southern kingdom that Amos was selected by the Lord to be his prophet and to preach in the Kingdom of Israel. The Kingdom of Israel at that time was ruled by Jeroboam and his chief priest was Amazaih. Amos had been called by God as a prophet (he had been a simple shepherd). In his wildest dreams Amos probably wouldn’t have guessed that he was going to be chosen as a prophet, especially to the Kingdom of Israel. Sometimes God selects the most unlikely and if anyone fit this description for an unlikely prophet it would have been Amos. The problem was that the Chief Priest Amaziah and the prophets of Israel were “yes men.” They told King Jeroboam what he wanted to hear and not the truth. Obviously that wasn’t what God wanted so he selected Amos to be his prophet (and that probably wasn’t what Amos would have wanted to hear either). Despite his reluctance God knew he could and would speak the truth even if it wasn’t what the King wanted to hear.
We’re faced with a not too different situation in the Gospel. Jesus sent the twelve out two by two to be missionaries. The only thing they could take was a walking stick and the clothes on their back – no food, no money, no pack on their back. Imagine what they must have thought. Today, the Jesuits do the same thing. Part of the formation of a Jesuit novice is to be given the task of leaving the Province and to go across country with no money and no plans. From conversations I’ve had with some of them, this is one of the harder parts of their formation (at least when they first start their journey, but also one of the most rewarding).
Jesus also gives words of caution. When you enter a house stay there until you leave, if you are not welcome, leave. Remember at this time and growing increasingly stronger there was a deep prejudice against this new religious sect. Both the Jews and Romans viewed them very suspiciously. The Jews thought they were blasphemers as well as a group that could upset status quo, and the Romans viewed them as a threat to the peace. This was the milieu that the Apostles found themselves thrust into.
Amos had great faith and dedication and so did the Apostles. When I look at the faith they displayed I feel very inadequate. I’m often reminded of the prayer “Oh God help me in my unbelief and strengthen my faith.”
Amos bucked the prevailing thought of telling the King just what he wanted to hear. The Apostles preached and their preaching was contrary to the attitudes of the time, both Jew and Gentile alike.
We’re in a position not too unlike Amos and the Apostles. What we preach—or at least what we should preach is for many in our society a ridiculous position. As Paul said, “For Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those who are called, Jews and Greeks alike, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.”(1Cor.1:22-25)
We often find it easy not to follow the words of Jesus. For whatever reason we find ourselves in the person of the priest Amaziah and the false prophets, except, instead of telling the king what he wants to hear we tell ourselves what we want to hear. When you consider the Gospel message it is really quite simple. Jesus was very clear and concise (and definite) in his message. He never gave options nor did he ever make suggestions, he gave commands.
When Jesus sent the Apostles out he gave them a very specific mission to preach repentance, drive out demons and cure the sick. We’re just like the Apostles, sent by Christ for a task. Here are some questions to think about. When did Jesus send you out as an apostle? What mission is he giving you? What does it mean for you to be an apostle? How are you fulfilling your mission as his apostle? These are questions directed at all of us.
Peace and blessings to you and your families.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
deacontim@tds.net
http://shamrockdeacon.blogspot.com
DEACON TIM – ADDITIONAL AVAILABILITY
I’ll continue to be available on Wednesdays from 4p until 6:30p for anyone who wants to drop in and am also generally available after the 8a Mass Monday through Friday (9a – 10a) and before Tuesday evening devotions from 5p - 7:15p. I’m also available by appointment Monday through Friday from 9a until 6p (734-502-1818)
14th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Deacon Tim’s Column
July 5, 2009
Just some odds and ends this week.
Low Gluten Hosts
Just a reminder. For the past several years we have had low gluten hosts available here at Our Lady of Good Counsel for those who suffer from both Celiac Disease as well as Dermatitis Herpetiformis. Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disease which is characterized by a complete intolerance to gluten (wheat, oats, rye and barley). Celiacs and those who suffer from Dermatitis Herpetiformis are unable to received the Eucharist under the form of bread (which is 100% wheat). Celiac disease can be life threatening. Left untreated by a gluten-free diet, it can lead to osteoporosis, malnutrition, central and peripheral nervous system disease, pancreatic disease, internal bleeding, damage to internal organs, gynecological and fertility problems, and even some forms of cancer. It may impact mental functions, and can aggravate autism (including a common autism spectrum disorder called Asperger's syndrome), attention deficit disorder, and even schizophrenia.
The Benedictine Sisters of Clyde, MO after much experimentation have delveloped a low gluten (less than .01%) all wheat hosts which most Celiacs and those who suffer from Dermatitis Herpetiformis can tolerate easily. These hosts have been approved by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops as well as by the Vatican’s Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments and the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. These hosts are available upon request. If you have any questions, please contact me at 734-502-1818.
Deacon Tim
PBJ Outreach
Thank you for your generosity and caring concern for those that we serve. It was about seven years ago this coming week that the idea of starting the PBJ was formed. During the last 6 ¾ years we’ve served approximately 80,000 people. Thank you! During the winter months we always have plenty of volunteers but in the summer the numbers decrease. Your participation would be greatly appreciated if you’d like to give a hand. We are also in need of small jars of peanut butter and jelly. Each week we give a loaf of bread out and a jar of peanut butter or jelly. May God continue to bless all of you and your families.
Clothes Closet
Despite some delays, we will soon (hopefully) be in our permanent location. Until then please contact me if you have any questions or would like to utilize this service. It is intended for those trying to reenter the work force, and those who are entering it for the first time. All are welcome, college students are invited to also utilize this service if you have need of it.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
Blog
If you’re interested, I’ve started a blog (see below) for any questions you might have or for some discussion. As the weeks progress it will be taking more of its intended form.
Blessings to you and your families.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
deacontim@tds.net
http://shamrockdeacon.blogspot.com
July 5, 2009
Just some odds and ends this week.
Low Gluten Hosts
Just a reminder. For the past several years we have had low gluten hosts available here at Our Lady of Good Counsel for those who suffer from both Celiac Disease as well as Dermatitis Herpetiformis. Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disease which is characterized by a complete intolerance to gluten (wheat, oats, rye and barley). Celiacs and those who suffer from Dermatitis Herpetiformis are unable to received the Eucharist under the form of bread (which is 100% wheat). Celiac disease can be life threatening. Left untreated by a gluten-free diet, it can lead to osteoporosis, malnutrition, central and peripheral nervous system disease, pancreatic disease, internal bleeding, damage to internal organs, gynecological and fertility problems, and even some forms of cancer. It may impact mental functions, and can aggravate autism (including a common autism spectrum disorder called Asperger's syndrome), attention deficit disorder, and even schizophrenia.
The Benedictine Sisters of Clyde, MO after much experimentation have delveloped a low gluten (less than .01%) all wheat hosts which most Celiacs and those who suffer from Dermatitis Herpetiformis can tolerate easily. These hosts have been approved by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops as well as by the Vatican’s Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments and the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. These hosts are available upon request. If you have any questions, please contact me at 734-502-1818.
Deacon Tim
PBJ Outreach
Thank you for your generosity and caring concern for those that we serve. It was about seven years ago this coming week that the idea of starting the PBJ was formed. During the last 6 ¾ years we’ve served approximately 80,000 people. Thank you! During the winter months we always have plenty of volunteers but in the summer the numbers decrease. Your participation would be greatly appreciated if you’d like to give a hand. We are also in need of small jars of peanut butter and jelly. Each week we give a loaf of bread out and a jar of peanut butter or jelly. May God continue to bless all of you and your families.
Clothes Closet
Despite some delays, we will soon (hopefully) be in our permanent location. Until then please contact me if you have any questions or would like to utilize this service. It is intended for those trying to reenter the work force, and those who are entering it for the first time. All are welcome, college students are invited to also utilize this service if you have need of it.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
Blog
If you’re interested, I’ve started a blog (see below) for any questions you might have or for some discussion. As the weeks progress it will be taking more of its intended form.
Blessings to you and your families.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
deacontim@tds.net
http://shamrockdeacon.blogspot.com
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