Word for Word 6/2/21

At an ecumenical prayer service in Latvia on September 24, 2018 Pope Francis said: We Christians are very much aware that “if the music of the Gospel ceases to resonate in our very being, we will lose the joy born of compassion, the tender love born of trust, the capacity for reconciliation that has its source in our knowledge that we have been forgiven and sent forth. If the music of the Gospel ceases to sound in our homes, our public squares, our workplaces, our political and financial life, then we will no longer hear the strains that challenge us to defend the dignity of every man and woman.” Fratelli Tutti, pp. 115-116

I am wondering: as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic are you more in tune with the music of the Gospel or are you seemingly “off key” with the Gospel’s music in your life?

I think whenever we sing together the music of the Gospel - proclaiming the love of God to the world - we become more aware that we are in the same boat together with Jesus Christ and with everyone else. Therefore, join me in seeking to re-unite with our sisters and brothers physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.

Go to church this weekend. Work on changing your life by changing your words, thoughts and deeds. Make peace with an enemy or foe. Give a portion of your time, talent or treasure to someone in need. Be patient with someone who annoys you or irritates you. Pray for unity in the world and among all people just as Jesus did.

These are the works of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Why not sing to the Lord a new song! Which is actually an old song: His gospel music.

“It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain … This I command you: love one another.”  - John 15:16a, 17.

Fr. John Moser
Pastor
St. Patrick Catholic Church, Waukon