by Sister Margaret Mary Halbach
Sunday's first reading from Joshua and the Gospel from John have a common theme. They are both about serving the Lord.
Joshua tells the Tribes at Sheckem to "decide today whom you will serve. ... As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." We all know that serving the Lord is important. Growing up in a German family, our attending Mass and receiving the Sacraments were vital. As for our family, "we will serve the Lord together."
When I grew older and attended the Convent, the Gospel of John was read, taken apart, discussed and more thoroughly explained. We were taught how the Word of the Lord was to be deep in our hearts and lived with truth and enthusiasm. Sometimes, like the disciples, I complained about how hard it was to live the Word of the Lord but making the effort has enriched my life.
Some of Jesus' followers left Him because of their lack of belief. Jesus gave them a choice, "Do you also want to leave?" Peter, who was the spokesperson, answered Him. "Master, to whom shall we go? You have the Words of Eternal Life. We have come to believe and are convinced you are the Holy One of God."
This weekend, as you hear the readings proclaimed, consider the depth of your faith in Christ. Is your faith strong enough to wholeheartedly accept the Words of Eternal Life and commit to them in your life? Picture the Lord asking you, "Do you also want to leave?" Is your response, "Lord, to whom shall we go?" He is our God and our All and we will cling faithfully to Him.
I will remember you each in my prayers this week as you reflect on the powerful readings of this Sunday. Blessings be yours.
Thank you for your prayers as we continue on this beautiful journey. You are also in my prayers.
These are very powerful comments. What would life be like without God? I never want to find out. Thank you!
Thanks for sharing. We are so blessed to have the Faith passed on by our parents. They did a wonderful job, now it's our turn to continue that.