FRIDAY OF THE FOURTH WEEK OF EASTER
This morning I was checking my email for the morning readings and found an email from Fr. Brian to his parishioners. Unfortunately, I am not in his parish, but he sends inspiring and informative information to his flock, and I tune in for updates.
I could not believe my eyes at the subject line, "Masses resume next weekend." Father refrained from putting a million and one exclamation points on that headline; I can't begin to imagine the restraint.
Wherever you are in the world, it has been quite some time since you and I were able to attend Mass and receive the Blessed Sacrament of the Eucharist. We have been faithful sheep, watching the Mass on our computers and televisions. Obedient in accepting the suspension of the sacraments as guided by our Bishops.
St. Ignatius of Antioch wrote in The Epistle of Ignatius to the Magnesians, "You should, after no hypocritical fashion, obey [your bishop], in honor of Him who has willed us [to do so]."
Obedience is not a virtue that the secular world accepts or understands, but we, as followers of Christ, know that obedience to God's commands helps us grow in holiness. Obedience is not contrary to freedom; rather, it guides us to stay on the narrow path that leads to everlasting life.
Since moms are on our mind as we enter this Mother's Day weekend, let us reflect on the life of our universal mother as the example of perfect obedience to God's will. Mary is holy because she is fully obedient to the will of God. She freely unites her will with God's will.
Lord, help us to follow the example of Your mother, who was perfect in her obedience. May we joyfully obey the guidance of those who tend your flocks and willingly make sacrifices for the good of the many. May your Holy Spirit fill us with a greater love for you and our brothers and sisters. Amen.
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