Monday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Today we hear Jesus tell the disciples that he has to go to Jerusalem to be handed over, tortured, and killed. In my office, I have a portrait of the Sacred Heart hanging above the chair where I have guests sit. In this portrait, Jesus is wearing the crown of thorns, is bloody, and has tears coming down from his eyes. Underneath him are the words “Sic Deus Dilexit Mundum,” which means, “For God so loved the world.” This is so I can see Christ in those who I work with who want to chat, or in my brother monks, family, friends, or the in the total stranger.
The first reading tells us, “So you too must befriend the alien, for you were once aliens yourselves in the land of Egypt. The LORD, your God, shall you fear, and him shall you serve; hold fast to him and swear by his name.” Do you do anything to help the least of your brothers and sisters? You don’t have to go out and find someone who needs help — you can look in your own family! Think of someone in your circle of family or friends that needs to hear the words, “I love you and so does Jesus.” Be that saint for someone who is calling for help by his or her actions.
Reflection by Br. Maximilian Burkhart, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections