Gospel Reflections for October 1 2017
Say yes …when you mean yes!
We like people who keep their promises. If someone promises you they will do something, you hope they will follow through on that commitment. Life works well to the extent we keep our promises.
That is the message of today’s Gospel. Two brothers say one thing and yet do another. Neither matches their words with actions. Neither is authentic.
Keeping our word is so important in families or at work today. You need to know that a promise to pick up the kids after school, show up for a doctor’s appointment, or follow through with a business client …will actually happen! You depend on people keeping their promises in these important areas. When your words and actions match we say you have the virtue of “Integrity.”
There are many events today to consider where integrity applies, for example, the North Korea confrontation, the healthcare debate, and even NFL football players behavior. (I will have more on these issues next week)
You might know that every year I lead an annual archaeological pilgrimage to the Holy Land. We visit many places where Jesus walked and learn about the archaeological evidence of each place. This June will be my 15th trip.
During these visits I have also come to understand how difficult the situation is for Catholics there. There are greatly outnumbered and so it is a challenge to support their parishes. I have promised to help …and I have followed through on that promise.
Therefore, besides supporting St. Bruno, I also personally support Catholic Charities in the Holy Land. I belong to the Order of the Holy Sepulchre which is a Vatican sponsored international organization that financially supports about 95% of the budget for Catholic parishes, schools, and hospitals in the Holy Land.
I am away this weekend at their annual meeting in Santa Barbara, along with Archbishop Gomez, where we will hear informative talks on Middle East issues and reports on our church projects. Since I go to the Holy Land every year I also see the results of our efforts, which is very satisfying to see!
I am sure you are always glad to be with people whose speech and actions match. Let this Gospel encourage us always to do the same ourselves.
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
Keep up the good work, Father!!!
Thank you!
Dear Father Dave,
It should be a beautiful weekend in Santa Barbara. Enjoy.
What’s happening throughout the world in today’s society is frightening … especially with North Korea and its horrific nuclear proliferation program. Hopefully, strong sanctions from the United States, China, Japan, and Russia will yield promising and long lasting results.
Look forward to reading your next message.
Sincerely,
Kathleen
Stay tuned!
After listening to the Gospel I went to the other readings and yes, I am glad that our God is a God who keeps his promises. He does care for us in ways we will never imagine.
I hope your trip to Santa Barbara is fruitful and am eager to hear the results.
Thank you! Stay tuned.
My family and I plan on being on that trip with you. The Holy Land awaits.
Welcome aboard!
Dick and I had a beautiful trip with you Father Dave to the lovely Holy Land!! It is a precious part of our hearts! To walk where Jesus walked, to love where Jesus loved, to share His gospel with others where He first touched peoples heart was an incredible experience in LOVE!!! May many be blessed by following in your footsteps of giving love for you follow Jesus!! I We love Jesus’ words” Come follow me!!!! and we are trying to follow and live His love!!You do amazing work for our Jesus lives in you!!!
A most beautiful day to you in our loving Jesus’ and our beautiful Blessed Mother’s Divine love embracing you!!
Loveeeeeeeeeeeee, franca ansd Dick
!
Thank you!
I haven’t visited the Holy Land yet, if ever it will be my first time to. Hopefully I could make it this June with your group despite hectic work schedules. It is not a promise–not yet, but just thinking of it.. A fruitful weekend ahead in Santa Barbara.
By he way, the gospel reminded me of another–Martha and Mary with Jesus. Mary was focused, while Martha was distracted–just like most of us..
Thanks Father,
Dee
Yes, great application to that Martha and Mary story.