A BLUEPRINT FOR LIVING

The alarm went off punctually at its appointed time; I was awake to its demands but reluctant to get out of bed.  Could I cadge a further five minutes?  I hit snooze and, promptly, five minutes later I received a shrill reminder.  Whoever invented the alarm and all its functions knew what he was doing!

Since I had time on my side, I decided that first Mass would be a good idea (instead of the afternoon which is a comfortable alternative).  It really was a good idea!  The first reading contained Paul’s advice to the ‘Romans’ – the best blueprint for Christian living that one could ever receive.  It makes me wonder why we listen to anything else!  Here’s the text, judge for yourselves:

“In the same way, all of us, though there are so many of us, make up one body in Christ, and as different parts we are all joined to one another.⁶ Then since the gifts that we have differ according to the grace that was given to each of us: if it is a gift of prophecy, we should prophesy as much as our faith tells us;⁷ if it is a gift of practical service, let us devote ourselves to serving; if it is teaching, to teaching;⁸ if it is encouraging, to encouraging. When you give, you should give generously from the heart; if you are put in charge, you must be conscientious; if you do works of mercy, let it be because you enjoy doing them.⁹ Let love be without any pretence. Avoid what is evil; stick to what is good.¹⁰ In brotherly love let your feelings of deep affection for one another come to expression and regard others as more important than yourself.¹¹ In the service of the Lord, work not halfheartedly but with conscientiousness and an eager spirit.¹² Be joyful in hope, persevere in hardship; keep praying regularly;¹³ share with any of God's holy people who are in need; look for opportunities to be hospitable.¹⁴ Bless your persecutors; never curse them, bless them.¹⁵ Rejoice with others when they rejoice, and be sad with those in sorrow.¹⁶ Give the same consideration to all others alike. Pay no regard to social standing, but meet humble people on their own terms. Do not congratulate yourself on your own wisdom.”

-          Romans 12:5-16

Tuesday’s Cantor is usually in good voice and today was no exception.  And even better was the choice of hymns – consolation, support and advice just when they were needed: In my heart, O Lord, you are there… you are there to lighten my burden … you are there to help me when I’m in need and God will make a way where there seems to be no way.

Prophetic?  I certainly feel so.

May your day be blessed.