Wednesday of the Twenty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Mass Readings

Devotion

For some reason I have a fondness for this poetic, hymn-like verse in today’s first reading:

Undeniably great is the mystery of devotion,

Who was manifested in the flesh,

Vindicated in the spirit,

Seen by angels,

Proclaimed to the Gentiles,

Believed in throughout the world,

Taken up in glory.

Perhaps I like it because of its enigmatic or awe-inspiring language: there is something “undeniably great” about this “mystery of devotion” which we call Christianity. Some Bibles translate “devotion” as “religion,” which highlights a definition of religion as loyalty with a hint of love behind it. As someone can be devoted to a spouse or a dear friend out of love, so religion is more about a relationship of love and devotion and less about fulfilling a duty or obligation.

Has someone (or your conscience) ever said to you, “You didn’t pray today? You didn’t go to Mass? You missed a day of your Novena? You didn’t do this or that for God’s sake?” Ah, tricky. A guilt trip. At times like these, that’s not what we need (if ever). What we need in these moments is a review of our relationship with God, a sit-down meeting with the One we know we love but need to get back in touch with.

For the Journey:

If you’re struggling in your devotions (relationships, priorities, religious practices), don’t stress; get back to square one. Make a list of those to whom and to what you are devoted and then try to rework your schedule from that. For “undeniably great is the mystery of devotion…”

Reflection by Br. Luke Kral, OSB