To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise. — Psalm 116:17
Mass Readings: 1 Corinthians 10:14-22 / Luke 6:43-49
I was in New York in December 2001, just three months after the terrorist attacks. New Yorkers are legendary for being abrupt but people were holding doors for one another, nodding to strangers on the street, and generally exhibiting a friendliness that shattered the stereotype. The human spirit, in tandem with the Christmas spirit, was rising above petty differences. People were determined to take stock of their values and assert their common humanity in a kind of unspoken rebuttal to the attackers.
In today’s Gospel Jesus says a solid foundation can withstand calamity. Goodness can hold off evil. The worst tragedies may occur, but the Spirit helps us to overcome the disaster. In our own lives we’re called to bear witness to the power of the Spirit and return evil with good.
Prayer: Lord, help me deal with difficulties with patience and love.