Ordinary time week 11, Mt 6,24-34
Celebrating the memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary emphasizes certain values to which contemporary spirituality is more sensitive. It is a remembrance of the maternal example and discipleship of the Blessed Virgin Mary who, strengthened by faith and hope, on that “great Saturday” on which Our Lord lay in the tomb, was the only one of the disciples to hold vigil in expectation of the Lord’s resurrection. It is a prelude and introduction to the celebration of Sunday, the weekly memorial of the Resurrection of Christ. It is a sign that the Virgin Mary is continuously present and operative in the life of the Church.
One of the hardest requests that Jesus asks is not to worry about the future. Yet, we spend all of our lives doing just that. Some would say this request is irresponsible, others a call to laziness or not facing up to reality. What Jesus is really saying is, whatever our plans, whatever our worries and concerns, however difficult the way ahead may be, begin by placing trust in me. Or, in today’s terms, Jesus is saying to each of us “I’ve got your back and won’t let you down.” He uses examples from nature to help us appreciate why we can trust him.
A Prayer of Gratitude for Creation
God of the universe, we thank you for your many good gifts -
for the beauty of Creation and its rich and varied fruits,
for clean water and fresh air, for food and shelter, animals and plants.
Forgive us for the times we have taken earth's resources for granted
and wasted what you have given us.
Transform our hearts and minds so that we learn to care and share,
touch the earth with gentleness and love, and respect all living things.
We pray for all those who suffer as a result of our waste,
greed and indifference,
and we pray that the day will come
when everyone has enough food and clean water.
Help us respect the rights of all people and all species
and help us willingly share your gifts today and always. Amen.
- Fiona Murdoch, Eco-Congregation Ireland
by Fr Thomas O'BRIEN a.a