Thursday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time
The awareness of natural disasters is no longer limited by slow and spotty communication. Due to sophisticated technology, such as cell phones, drones, and satellites, the suffering and destruction of natural disasters is now up close and personal. Whether local or far away the destruction of human life can no longer be ignored. Through our physical relationship throughout this tiny planet as well as our emotional and spiritual relationship because of our humanity we share the impact of the moment.
The beginning of Israel’s Babylonian exile as we read in today’s first readings no doubt had the same long-lasting impact equal to their first exile as a nation in Egypt. It became a part of their common memory and a milestone marking the depth of their faith in God’s covenant with them. It was all about foundations and how well those foundations could withstand violence and provide stability for rebuilding the future.
This would seem to be the same message coming from today’s Gospel images of the two kinds of houses each facing the storm. What do you stand on? Some wise person once said: “If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything!”
We not only stand with Jesus, but the faith relationship moves beyond the physical image to a total dependence and trust in a living growing union of mind, heart, and soul. Even our desire to know this deeper union and trust in it is, in itself, a gift of His love and presence. Now, that’s a solid foundation!
Reflection by Fr. Daniel Petsche, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections