This weekend we rejoice in the celebration of our independence from tyranny and many freedoms we enjoy in the USA.
How fitting it is that the Sunday readings (Is 66:10-14c; Gal 6:14-18; Lk 10:1-12,17-20) have as their theme “Rejoicing.” The first reading takes place as the Jewish captives from Babylon return to Jerusalem. Although they find the city in ruins, Isaiah tells the people to rejoice, for God is with them and will help the city to flourish and grow once more. The psalm echoes the theme of rejoicing, “Let all the earth cry out to God with joy,” as the author reminds the people of all God has done for him in the past. Finally, the gospel describes the joy of the 72 returning from their mission in spreading the gospel of Jesus. That is a cause for rejoicing, but the greater reason is the knowledge that in serving God on earth, their many names are written in heaven. So, too, are our names written in heaven if we continue to serve God on earth.
- Fr. Carl
Jesus on the Cross said to the disciple whom he loved:
“Behold your mother!” How sweet are those words to
the Christian who is able to understand what depths of
love they contain!
~ Thoughts of the Cure D’Ars
