September 20, St. Andrew Kim/companions

I will walk in the presence of God, in the light of the living.--Psalm 56:14

Mass readings: 1 Corinthians 15:35-37,42-49 / Luke 8:4-15

The Coffee Trap

I'm a recovering ''specialty-coffee addict.'' At first, I enjoyed an occasional latte. No harm done. But slowly it evolved into a regular fix. I had to have that coffee or my day wouldn't go right.

I think I was like the seed that fell among thorns in the Gospel today, ''choked by the . . . pleasures of life.'' There was nothing wrong with having that coffee, until the lack of it had the ability to ruin my day. Although the coffee was a pleasure, the dependency was a thorn. Kicking the habit has made me feel free. Free to appreciate a fancy coffee once in a while without needing it. Free to enjoy my day without contingency. Free to partake in the pleasures of life without being choked by them. And that tastes better than any white mocha could.

Prayer: Blessed Mother, help me be the seed that falls on rich soil and bears fruit.