Well that was a violent first reading! To be honest, I wouldn’t have chosen it
for preaching in my two Masses here a month! But as it is the Word of God there is something for us to
learn.
While
we may be distracted by the slaying of men, women and children, the overall
point from this reading is that God marks His people for salvation. Each of the faithful Jews were marked
with a thau—a Hebrew letter—to indicate freedom from death.
Did
you know you have been marked—sealed—by God? You were baptized!
You were confirmed! You
have actually been marked twice! This seal identifies you as a child of God and can prevent you from sin
and spiritual death in your soul.
And let’s be clear—we want to kill sin and evil. We want God to vanquish it from our
souls.
Have
confidence in this mark. A common
trial for elderly men and women is feeling lonely. One of the features of St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Columban
parishes that I love most is the dedication of our parishioners and staff to
reach out to those who can’t come to Church frequently. For those visiting family and friends
here today—thank you and keep up the great work! When
you feel lonely, remember that God is always with you and you are His child.
Another
point to remember to combat loneliness comes from the words of Jesus: “For where two or three are gathered
together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Jesus is present here when we gather in
prayer. That’s why I love coming
to say Mass for you twice a month.
Outside of Mass I encourage you to gather together in the name of
Christ. Not only does it fight
loneliness, but also builds up the kingdom of God in your midst.
Remember
you are never alone. God is always
with you. You have fellow
Catholics and Christians residing with you. Continue gathering in His name and know of the great work
you can do through prayer just where you are.
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