Reflection for Sept. 10, 2023

Jesus, St. Francis of Assisi  and Dorothy Day remind us to love one another

by Sister Laura Zelten

The Scriptures for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time are about how to live in this world.  They emphasize the importance of conversion and love. They encourage us to avoid hardening our hearts, to love one another, and to support each other on the path to holiness.

The readings remind me of the Prayer of St. Francis.  By our Baptism we are called to be God’s instruments of peace and sow seeds of love, hope, reconciliation, the light of Christ and joy.  Let us seek to understand and to love in the good times and difficult times. This is a good reminder of what discipleship is all about.  We are challenged to truly care for each other. We are responsible for each other.  If someone is in need, then we must help. And where there is corruption, we must speak out. As Dorothy Day says, “The final word is love.”