Pastor Notes January 5, 2023
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February 6, 2023Gratefully, our church at St. Malachy is again warm, with the leak fixed and the building secure thanks to the efforts of our parish director Greg, and volunteers who shared their space heaters. Despite the colder temps outside last weekend, our building sustained a reasonable comfort for last weekend’s Masses. Our Eucharist was celebrated with gratitude and a spirit of hope for the little bit of sacrifice for the cooler temperatures inside. Conditions we experienced and the anxiety over the situation in some ways gave us an understanding of the plight of Ukrainian families who have lost their basic utilities in the midst of their winter weather. Not that we desire such occurrences, but circumstances where we struggle a bit or sacrifice gives us an added appreciation for the blessings, we may take for granted, and allows an understanding of the plight of others who may not have the basic essentials that are so much a part of our day to day comfort and security. Again, we are appreciative of the security and upkeep of our church (and facilities); and the hospitality we afford parishioners and visitors alike who desire to share our faith and prayers.
Today’s gospel emphasizes the theme of the Presentation of the Lord Holy Day that fell on a weekday, February 2nd. Simeon, holding the infant child Jesus, declared this is the Christ, the Messiah, “a light for the revelation to the Gentiles!” And Christ Jesus, in today’s gospel passage continued to emphasize the message for all of us who follow his teachings: “You are the light of the world. . . .Your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” We each have the Light within from our baptism into the Body of Christ, but realizing such in all circumstances is challenging as Elisabeth Kubler-Ross reminds us: “People are like stained - glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.”
From the Marquette Academy website (a Jesuit institution in Ottawa, IL), the following article provides us with an inspiration to let “your light shine before others.” “Being a light” sounds great, doesn’t it? But it’s also a little abstract. How exactly do you become this brilliant beacon to people around you?
Here are 4 practical tips:
*Be careful what you say. The Bible calls the tongue “a restless evil, full of deadly poison” (James 3:8). Yikes! That’s pretty serious. And that’s how we should take our speech— seriously. Maybe a parent once told you, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” It’s not bad advice, even as an adult. Words are powerful and can be used for good or bad. You might even post this verse somewhere as a reminder: “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear” (Ephesians 4:29). Read How to Tame the Tongue.
*Consider your entertainment. Where do you go for fun? What shows or movies do you watch? What kind of music do you listen to? Would you go to the same places, watch the same things or listen to the same music if Jesus were sitting next to you? Or would you be embarrassed? It might sound silly, but asking those questions is a good way to keep yourself in check, whether you’re alone or with others.
*Use social media wisely. People are watching what you post, whether they interact with your posts or not. Think about the things you’ve posted recently—articles, comments, photos, and so on. Could they be seen as prideful? Self-centered? Rude? What’s your motive? To put others down or make them jealous? Hopefully not. Aim to make informed, respectful posts that represent the One you claim as Lord.
*Think of others. Consider other people’s needs and help meet them. Encourage instead of criticize. Be patient. Give others the benefit of the doubt. If you hear gossip, distance yourself from it or change the subject. When you encounter a difficult person, remember that they were made and are loved by God. Above all, “Treat others the same way you want them to treat you” (Luke 6:31).
And lest we forget, “Our goal should never be to bring recognition to ourselves, but to bring glory to God. There’s a fine line between being a light and putting on a show to get attention. It’s a matter of the heart.
God Bless, Fr. Tim
FYI: “Groundhog found fog. New snows and blue toes. Fine and dandy for Valentine candy. Snow spittin'; if you're not mitten-smitten, you'll be frostbitten! By jing-y feels spring-y.” (The Old Farmer's Almanac)