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July 4, 2012 – Amos 5:14-24 – A Lament for Israel’s Sin

St. Elizabeth of Portugal

"Seek good and not evil, that you may live; and so the Lord, the God of hosts will be with you, just as you have said. Hate evil and love good, and establish justice in the gate; it may be that the Lord, the God of hosts, will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph."

Fr. Michael Coutts mentioned that today is the Feast of St. Elizabeth of Portugal. She is known as a peacemaker and the Queen of Portugal. She reconciled her son and grandson who were fighting for the throne. Just like Elizabeth, we are called to seek good and not evil.

July 3, 2012 – John 20:24-29 – Jesus and Thomas

"But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. But he said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe”….Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to them, “Have you believed because you have seen me. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”"

Father Jack Lynch said that many of us identify ourselves with Blessed Apostle Thomas in the gospel. Doubting Thomas is an authentic searcher and represents us who have questions and doubts about Jesus. Thomas questioned on what he believed but relied on his faith  when he met Jesus. He inspires us to have the courage to question and  believe in Jesus. We are empowered by the Holy Spirit to ask the healing power of peace.

Note: We extend our prayers for Father Jack who will be leaving for his sabbatical year.   

July 2, 2012 – Matthew 8:18-22 – Would-Be Followers of Jesus

"A scribe then approached and said, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him. “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” Another of his disciples said to him, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” But Jesus said to him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”"

Cardinal Tomas Collins said that the gospel reading emphasizes simplicity. We need simplicity and should not get caught with complexity. This means we should focus on what is important. During confession, the priest gives a simple penance consisting mostly of one “Our Father.” We must follow the Lord and seek to serve God faithfully. We live faithfully as we seek to serve God day by day until we see him face to face.