In Our Lives as Sisters of the Holy Redeemer . . .
The week began with the arrival of college students who chose to spend their Spring Break serving others. In them, we witnessed young people going forth in faith. We provided a place to stay and service sites.
Each day a Sister and the Redeemer Ministry Corps volunteer director listened to the invitation and went forth with the students – to childcare and eldercare centers, to our community garden, to provide meals for the rest homebound, and much more.
We shared meals and prayed with the students, which provided time to listen to and learn about each other.
On Saturday morning we went forth wave goodbye as the students climbed aboard the bus to return to school.
Younger students, 2nd Graders at a local school, began preparations for our school garden program. One Sister visited their classroom to share about the garden and listen to the many questions and stories enthusiastically offered by the students.
At week’s end we went forth to join in blessing a new ministry site – a group home for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This came about after listening to a call to assist the adult children of aging parents and family members. We look forward to welcoming the future residents.
Each day we go forth praying for the grace to listen to Our Redeemer who speaks in and through the many people and situations we encounter in our ministries.
In Your Life . . .
Very simply, you may wish to take up the invitation to listen in a deeper more conscious way during these Lenten days. It may mean turning off and tuning out various inputs – music, TV, future planning and worrisome thoughts. Listening can lead to transformation that will send one forth without fear.
Scripture Reflection . . .
Second Sunday of Lent
First Reading: Genesis 12:1-4
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 33 “Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.”
Second Reading: 2 Timothy 1:8-10
Gospel: Matthew 17:1-9
Have you ever found yourself thrust into a situation in which you felt unprepared or unsure of what to expect? I wonder what Abram felt when God spoke, “Go forth from the land of your kinsfolk and from your father’s house to a land I will show you.” In the past couple months I have been invited into the lives of various individuals experiencing difficulties with health, living situations and relationships. While I felt grateful for their trust in me I also felt like I was venturing into unfamiliar territory, slightly anxious about what I would face. Into this God spoke to my heart “Just go and I will provide whatever is needed.” This reassurance removed any weight of having to figure it out on my own. As St. Paul reminds Timothy, we are saved and called, “not according to our works but according to his own designs and the grace bestowed on us in Christ Jesus before time began.” God is and will work in and through us.
To the disciples, Peter, James and John, upon witnessing his transfiguration, Jesus speaks “Rise, and do not be afraid.” Jesus himself has just been wrapped up in a vision with Moses and Elijah where he is assured that he will face persecution. Into this terrifying message, Jesus is reassured with words, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased. Listen to him”
Truly, when we listen to God we will hear words of reassurance to send us forth. And we will experience the transfiguration many times in many places with many people.
Blessings on Your Week!