Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions:
Not much new to report… thanks for your prayers for our sick and special intensions.

Keeping-in-touch:
Time flies… I enjoyed a very busy week of presentations, preparation and play on the weekend. I also received notice that I was selected as a participant for the 2008-2009 Ignatian Faculty Scholars Program in the College for Professional Studies at Regis University. This is an opportunity to grow with other companion-scholars in our understanding, appreciation and participation in the mission of Ignatius Loyola. I look forward to the study, the camaraderie, and the challenge to publish a mission-oriented scholarly work. We joined friends camping and I smacked the back of my head on a rock when I fell while fishing (I think I should wear my bike helmet next time I go fishing). And we joined in the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Nativity of Our Lord Parish on Sunday.

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/083108.shtml

Comments on the Readings:
Fr. Foley leaves us with a pithy question: “Which side are you on—that of love, or that of riches, honor and pride?” Check-out his reflections as you prepare for Sunday:http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/22OrdA083108/reflections_foley.html

My Reflections

Can’t you relate with Peter? I can. I do not wish to suffer nor have any of my loved ones feel the pain of rejection and persecution. What would you do if you were in Peter’s shoes? Would you say, “Oh that’s great, Jesus, we’ve grown to love you, we turn to you to show us the fulfillment of all God’s promises, so now we’ll just follow you as you go to Jerusalem and watch people kick the living daylights out of you. Oh yea, we believe you will rise from the dead.” I don’t think so! If you’re like me, you’re constantly praying: “Common God, can you use your power and just fix….(fill in the blank).” Do I really seek “God’s ways?” Although I don’t morbidly look for opportunities for pain and suffering, I do need to look closer each day for God’s ways in contrast to the ways of human selfishness and alienation from our true self, from our brothers and sisters, from our world and from our God.

In what ways does Jesus call us today to recognize the difficult times ahead, follow him anyway, and yet trust that the fullness of life will follow?

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions:
Since I posted so late last week, I have not learned of many new joys or issues of my companions. Greg did send a nice email telling me to “keep up the good work.” And Ted wrote this morning that his mother-in-law is doing better. Also, Dad wrote that his sister, Agnes Klaus was taken to the hospital yesterday with some internal bleeding. Thanks for your prayers.

Keeping-in-touch:
As I wrote in the last post, we received “heavenly rains” and we canceled the SCC camp-out; but we all met for breakfast and praised OUR LORD for the wonderful moisture. I have a big presentation on Wednesday (AMDG).

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/082408.shtml

Comments on the Readings:
Fr. Foley tells us to open our hearts to the LORD… have faith:http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/21OrdA082408/reflections_foley.html
My Reflections
Even before my graduate study, where I focused on Christology in the philosophical traditions of Process Philosophy and the Philosophy of Hope, I often made the statement, “Your answer to the question, ‘Who do you say I Am?’ probably says more about you than it says about Jesus.” And then I would add, “One person’s experience is a very limited sample.”
I’m challenged by the Scriptures, by the Mothers and Fathers of the Church and by faithful communities that seek to respond fully to Our Lord’s revelation. I do not wish to commit myself to “my projected image (onto Jesus)” of “my ideal messiah” any more than I wish to love “my projected image (onto Margaret)” of “the perfect woman”! I wish to find God in all things and love the True God.

How has Jesus Christ surprised you; how have your images been attuned to the revelatory melody found in Scripture and Tradition?

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions:
Please forgive my delay again this week. Although these scripture readings have been a part of me all week, my delay has done little to serve you in your preparation.

Melissa left a voice message on Monday to tell us that she gave birth to Neal Solomon (8 lbs. 1 oz. 21 in) everyone is doing well! Anna Margaret is doing well. But, as you can see from the comments, we have friends with cancer and friends who died this past week for whom to pray. Kim and Gary visited and we prayed over Gary for a cure of his cancer (take a moment to read my account of this prayer in the “comments”). I encourage you to pray together with one another; this will make our Sunday Liturgy even more fruitful! Thank you for celebrating each other and supporting each other.

Keeping-in-touch:
Marge and I had a “mixed” week (and a half): we struggled with some health issues but had a wonderful, relaxing day in the mountains with Connie and Alan. I played plenty (every day) of tennis and made some headway with the LMS (software). I connected with a classmate on Facebook who has begun to work on our 40th high school reunion (When did I get so old?). We had a wonderful, short, visit with Kim and Gary. And we sent Matthew off to visit his sister in the Granola State! We were looking forward to a camping trip with our SCC at Horsetooth Reservoir (but this was canceled on account of the wonderful rains we are receiving).

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/081708.shtml

Comments on the Readings:
Fr. Foley comments on Jesus use of “dogs” for a people (we need to know the whole story):

http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/20OrdA081708/reflections_foley.html

My Reflections
My reflection is short: I only wish we all had the faith of this Canaanite Woman to doggedly turn to Our Lord and seek the fullness of Life. Help me to open myself fully to Your Will, Lord and show us Your healing power (see our prayer for Gary in the comments).

How have you opened yourself in faith recently?

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions:

We rejoice in the success of Anna Margaret’s heart operation. My sister, Judi, spent time in the hospital last week; I called and she’s doing better. I just learned today that my friends Gary & Kim will visit the middle of next week (and we will pray for a cure of his cancer). Thank you, all of my companions, for your prayers and for sharing your joys and sorrows.

Keeping-in-touch:
Our 100 degree heat made me cut down on tennis last week, but I made great strides in my work with Moodle (the Learning Management Software). The next couple weeks will fill-up with “dog and pony shows.” I enjoyed the celebration of St Ignatius Day at Regis and visited with a friend I had not seen for a while, Fr. Paul. We also enjoyed a wonderful dinner at our friends’, Sally and Tom.

The Readings:

http://www.usccb.org/nab/081008.shtml

Comments on the Readings:

Fr. Foley tells us to reflect on what Jesus must have thought and how He prayed:
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/19OrdA081008/reflections_foley.html

My Reflections
If I saw Jesus walking toward me as I paddled my canoe, I think I would react like the disciples: When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified.
“It is a ghost,” they said, and they cried out in fear.
Then, I would probably “mess-up” like the impetuous Peter (I can really relate to Peter).

I wonder how you, my companions, have heard the Lord speak to you? In the thunder? Or in “a tiny whispering sound”? Leave a comment, if you will.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions:
I was late last week and doing better with my post this week; so except for keeping an update on Anna Margaret's surgery (see comments on last week's post) I have not heard too much from "My Companions." Oh I did receive a question about how to leave comments... just click on the comment box, write your comment, choose "name" and leave your name, the choose "Publish Post."

Keeping-in-touch

I have little news: Matt's home, I'm plugging away on the Emmaus project...

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/080308.shtml

Comments on the Readings
Fr. Foley focuses on the GOOD NEWS and how much we can trust the Lord:

http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/18OrdA080308/reflections_foley.html

My Reflections

Where Fr. Foley focuses on the good news and the graciousness of God in these readings, I can not but reflect on the miracle of Jesus in feeding the multitudes... maybe because I'm thinking of the miracle of modern medicine in the healing of Anna Margaret and the miracle of celebrating the Eucharist...

I read somewhere that medieval people believed in Jesus because of miracles and modern people believe in Jesus in spite of the miracles (our sin is pride: we think we're so smart and know all about the world and all about God, thus fail to open ourselves to Mystery).

I think we miss the deeper meaning of miracle as a "work of God" or "a sign of God's presence" (a translation of the word used in the Greek: see semeion http://eastonsbibledictionary.com/m/miracle.htm) because we focus on the Latin translation of the word mīrāculum = wonder. We think we know how God acts/works and we expect God to be inactive except for "special moments." We do not really appreciate "the miracle of life" and know that Our Lord is constantly active in every moment of our lives. We do not live in a world of wonder (Latin) because we fail to recognize the love that fills our lives because of the work of God (Greek).

Take a moment to recognize the working of God in your life today for "this is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!" And thank you for helping me celebrate all this Good News.

Maybe you could leave a comment on the miracles in your life these days...

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

July 27, 2008 Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions:

I spoke with Kim and Gary went for surgery this week to remove lymph nodes (and as I post this received a voice mail: they appreciate our prayers and are receiving support). They do not know what treatment will follow but need prayer for body and spirits. Ted told me that his mother-in-law can get around a little better. And Randy let me know that Nick, his son, has west Nile… and got it here even though he has flown to Southeast Asia for his project. We saw the Varras (Rachel and Peter) before they flew to Hawaii and they glowed with life. Anna Margaret has open heart surgery this week, so keep this little girl in your prayers.Keeping in-touch:You can see that I’m “slacking” as this preparation will only be written hours before we celebrate the Sunday Liturgy. We enjoyed our Son, Daughters and Grandchildren and this week seemed to fly-bye as I continued to work on my Emmaus Project and on my exercising (tennis and biking). Also, it has taken a lot of energy just to deal with the high 90s heat. Matt will move home on Monday. My prayer this week has focused on finding funding or a job so I can continue to work on my project… Maybe, like Solomon, I should just pray for wisdom and the Lord will lead me to something useful!

The Readings:

http://www.usccb.org/nab/072708.shtml

Comments on the Readings

Fr. Foley challenges us to listen with an open heart and find wisdom. http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/17OrdA072708/reflections_foley.html

My Reflections

As I mentioned earlier, I need to pray for wisdom. I have reached-out to many people as I work on my Emmaus project and I meet many gracious people. Although Solomon is known for his wisdom, he is also known for taxing the heck out of his people! I wonder what I would do if I had such power. I like to think that I have my sights on a “pearl of great price” but all my vision and enthusiasm will be worth nothing if it does not serve the building of the Kingdom of God: AMDG

What are you “hiding” or “working to purchase” these days? How do you see that connected with God’s will?

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

July 20, 2008: Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions:
Randy shared an email (see comment on last week) of the trauma that Sophie experiences over her missing daughter.

Keeping in-touch:
We delightedly shared in the wedding celebration and reception of Patrick and Candice Brannan in Colorado Springs: the love in the Sacramental Celebration will sign Christ’s Love for years to come. My trip to Las Vegas for Regis was eventful and it’s always good to work together. The rest of the week we have prepared for the arrival of our grown children and the grand children as we prepare for Rachel and Peter’s Wedding.

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/072008.shtml

Comments on the Readings
Fr. Foley builds his reflections on the theme of forgiveness. http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/16OrdA072008/reflections_foley.html


My Reflections
So many times I pray for the Lord to rid this world of evil. (I guess it’s the American Way to want to go after “the axis of evil.”) Somehow Our Lord seems to be able to “write straight with crooked lines.” God even seems to take the shadow side of my own life bring me to good!

Can you think of a time that the Lord seemed to make something good come out of “weeds” that you would have eradicated earlier?

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

July 13, 2008: Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions:

Except for an email from Randy seeking prayers for a missing friend (see comment), I have not heard or read much to share. So, hopefully, we are “the glory of God,” that is “a people fully alive.”

Keeping in-touch:

Our celebration of Independence Day played-out, as usual, with some wonderful tennis on TV from Wimbledon and the viewing of fireworks from the driveway. Quiet holidays help us re-create ourselves.

The Readings:

I hope the Pastor reads the short version of the Gospel. The parable alone paints such a challenging image.http://www.usccb.org/nab/071308.shtml
Comments on the Readings

Fr. Foley challenges me with the poetry and asks the stinging question “How good is your own soil?” http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/15OrdA071308/reflections_foley.html
My Reflections

My soil needs work! So I have asked myself, “When am I most fully alive?” My answers (no surprises): when Marge and I actively work around the house or enjoy the beauty of the nature around us; when I find myself engrossed on the computer solving challenges or interacting with students; when my tennis stroke is “in the groove.” These are the times when I accept the Love that surrounds me… and hopefully love flows through.

When are you fully alive?

I'm sure you have some insights for all of us...

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

July 6, 2008: Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions:
Thanks Matthew for beginning to make this blog interactive! As we prepare for our Sunday assembly may we have a safe holiday and reflect on the value of having the freedom to choose the good! I have added a section on the left side of the blog to list those "who have gone before us in the sign of faith." Let me know who you would like to add to the list.

Keeping in-touch:
I think we have recovered from our jet-lag. The bridal shower went well and the anticipation of Rachel and Peter's wedding (and the arrival of all our children to town) begins its crescendo. Time flys when you're having fun. I've made some strides on formats for Emmaus Institute work. And I had a great deal of time to meditate as I began painting on the outside of the house. Otherwise we are back in the swing of life in Broomfield.


The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/070608.shtml

Comments on the Readings
Fr. Foley's reflections on the Readings take a look at how Jesus, unlike Dylan Thomas, didn't focus on death. http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/14OrdA070608/reflections_foley.html


My Reflections
As I reflect on these scriptures I can not help but recall the times I didn't particularly want a humble God who would meekly ride into town on an ass. In our every day view of the world and the standards by which most of the world works, Jesus is a "loser." This is a real challenge for those of us who pray for comfort, wealth and fame. Can I really find comfort in one who was crucified? I don't know about you, but I want to live "an abundant life." I guess I will reflect this week on what that really means... even though I know I will die and I'm aware that I often do not live in the freedom that has been offered to me!
I'm sure you have some insights for all of us...

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

June 29th: Sts Peter and Paul

My Companions:
Judy Lay has returned home from the hospital and continues to regain her health. She wrote me with many gracious comments for the grace she has received. Dad still sounds raspy when we spoke on the phone but assures us that his throat gives no pain. This week I added Clarence Boitnott to our prayers for Elizabeth tells us his body has taken its toll after surgeries and treatments…
Keeping in-touch:
We enjoyed a quiet weekend after a week of recovery from our travels. My Maggie keeps busy preparing for Rachel’s wedding shower. I received a nice writer’s honorarium for my article, “My jihad, as a Catholic, with Islam,” from LEAVEN. Can you believe summer has begun and Friday is Independence Day? Now I need to get to work on The Emmaus Institute or some other fruitful endeavor.
The Readings:June 29th: Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/062908.shtml
Comments on the Readings
Fr. Foley's reflections on the Readings challenge us with the question, “Does putting love first seem impossible?”
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/PeterPaul062908/reflections_foley.html
My Reflections
When ever I have taught or facilitated a course on Jesus of Nazareth or a course in Christology, I begin the course with this question: “Who do you say Jesus is?” Then, after some reflection and some sharing of images and perspectives, I comment: “What you say about Jesus probably says more about you than it does about Jesus!”
I can not help to wonder how I might have reacted to the first church leaders, Peter and Paul. In the Gospels Peter comes off like a guy who just doesn’t get it. And some times Paul seems so arrogant it’s a wonder anyone listened. I guess the Lord can work through just about anyone: so pray for our leaders today!
I have not been lead out of prison by an angel like Peter and I’m sure I have a ways yet to run, unlike Paul, but I have been given a great gift of faith and recognize Jesus as Lord. I only pray this gift will grow and the Holy Spirit will work through me as I continue the race.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

June 22, 2008 Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions:

I have good news that my sister, Judi Cole, surgery was successful and now we will continue to pray for the recovery of her lungs. My sister-in-law, Judy Lay, went to the hospital on Wednesday so please continue to pray for her. And I have added our niece, Molly Komon, to our list as she struggles with her disease. And we just learned that 5 yr old Anna Margaret (My Maggie's Niece's daughter in MI) has a hole in her heart, that she may have had since birth, which the doctors will perform surgery on to fix.

I invited Mary Jane and Lou Burgess of Kilrush, County Clare, Ireland to my "Companions email distribution list." It will be good to have prayers from the other side of the Big Pond.

Keeping in-touch:

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Ireland... we met wonderful friends and visited beautiful sights (visit our blog laysinireland.blogspot.com). And I'm having a difficult time adjusting to reality... but I shot my best round of golf that I can remember with my friend, Ted: 96 strokes! I will try to update this on Mondays but give no promises!

The Readings:
June 22nd: Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/062208.shtml

Comments on the Readings

Fr. Foley's reflections on the Readings challenge us to reflect on the wonder of God's love for each of us.

Of course we do not look like the models on the store magazines, but can you even imagine what God sees as God looks at each of us? From where do our standards of beauty, good and truth come?
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/12OrdA062208/reflections_foley.html

My Reflections

Not one of the sparrows falls to the ground without the Father's knowledge but that does not mean we do not witness the poor little bird that meets the picture window at warp speed or the fowl that lie dead at the side of the road! Too often we ask the Lord to "make things right" (and we mean, "as we would have it) when we should simply be amazed at the unconditional love the Lord offers us and humbly expect the fullness of God's promise.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

June 1st; Ninth Sunday of Ordinary Time

My Companions

I hope this finds everyone filled with life and enjoying good health. I failed to keep sending my "Keeping In-Touch" emails and Kim asked my why I stopped. I'll uses the excuse we all use, "My life became so busy..." but as I told her, "I needed more interaction and feedback." So I hope you will join in my preparation and comments on next Sunday's scripture readings and participate in this blog. This will be a better forum for preparation and community building.

Keeping In-Touch

I have played a bit of tennis and have kept keep busy with my online courses. And a week from today we will travel to the Emerald Island so our planning and preparations keep us hopping!

I'm also very excited about reviving The Emmaus Institute that never really took-off. I have learned so much by teaching online and I'm finding resources that will help me serve online community building and religious education for others.

I wrote an article for "Leaven" with the title "My jihad, as a Catholic, with Islam."

Matthew graduated with his Masters in history from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs on Friday. He will move back with us and begin working on another Masters in education at the University of Colorado in Boulder.

Link to the Readings

http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/060108.shtml

Comments on the Readings

Fr. Foley tells a story of a trip to Ireland and comments on the foundation issue of our Gospel Reading:

http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/9OrdA060108/reflections_foley.html

My Reflections

I know that I must listen more to the scriptures and to the wonderful companions in my life who help me stay grounded. I thank my parents and the faith communities that help me to experience the commands of the Lord as blessings. This I see as the strong foundation in my life.

I hope you will take some time to add to this blog as we prepare for our celebration on Sunday. Also, let me know what you would like to add to our prayer list.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John