Amazing to think, in three weeks I will be offering Mass in
Ephesus – the final resting place of St. John, the home of Mary, the place
where Mary was declared Mother of God, the place where St. Paul lived for over
2 years. His letter to the Ephesian today:
God chose us in him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and
without blemish before him – so that we might exist for the praise of his
glory.
We have a purpose and a goal
What will help us to get there?
Carry a walking stick – Go two by two – shake the dust from
your feet.
1) Carry
a walking stick
You need something to lean on – trust in God’s providence.
All happens for a reason – can we trust in God’s love?
King had a falcon that helped him hunt. At the end of the
day, began long ride home. Looking for a place to drink – saw some trickling
water. As he went to put his cup under the water, the falcon swooped down &
knocked it away.
Happened 3 times and king went into a rage. Took out his
sword and hacked at the bird.
Then he went to get his drink – but then he finally noticed
the source of the spring – dead animal – water was contaminated.
Falcon could see what we couldn’t – can God see what we can’t
- does God have a plan?
2) Go
two by two
Genesis – not good for man to be alone. Need each other.
Communion of saints. Community
of the church.
List of sick - “Through this holy anointing, grant comfort
in their suffering. When she is afraid, give her courage, when afflicted, give
her patience, when dejected, afford her hope, and when alone, assure her of the
support of your holy people.”
3) Shake
dust from feet.
No 100% success rate. Great baseball hitter .300
Makes out 7 out of 10 times!
Do our best & move on. Let go.
Not everyone will receive you
Not everyone will love you
Not everyone will appreciate you
Bank president was asked– secret to success? Right decisions
How do you make right decisions – experience
How do you get experience – wrong decisions.
Mother Theresa – “we
are called not to be successful – but to be faithful.”
We know who we are – sons & daughters of God – and where
we are going – toward the Kingdom of God. To get there: carry a walking stick,
go 2 by 2, shake the dust from your feet! By God’s grace, we will get there!
