Ordinary Time: Monday, November 26, 2007

Old Testament Lesson

Joel 3:1-2, 9-17

One of the constant themes we see in nearly all the Old Testament Prophets is this notion that God's people would be tested, that it would not always be easy, there would be struggle and trial. But, God would always make a way. There will come a time when God's people will be restored, where things shall be as they should have been.

Here we see God tell the people, Jerusalem will be made as it should be, holy, and pure. God will restore His people. Even in the darkest night of the soul, God will shine a light and will bring hope to His people.

New Testament Lesson

1 Peter 1:1-12

One of the notions that we see quite often is that those of us that stand today stand on the shoulders of our parents and grandparents, on all those that have gone before us. We need to remember all that has been done to bring us to this point in life.

And likewise we make the way for others that will follow us. Just as we stand upon the shoulders of those before, those after us will stand on our shoulders. May we live in such a way where they may have the tallest view.

Gospel Lesson

Matthew 19:1-12

We see here Jesus teach us the importance of family. So often in life, so many things push and pull against us. So often, other things try to take priority in life. One of my professors in seminary told us once, it does no good to cross a bridge in life, if our family doesn't make it with us. Today, may we realize what a joy, bless, and gift from God family is.