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.
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