How is the Gospel proclaimed, not only in the pulpit of our parish, but also in our everyday lives here in North Portland?
The Old Testament notion of “jubilee” was a reminder that God, the Creator of all, was the true owner of creation. It was also a reminder that those who live in a covenant relationship with God must also seek right and just relationships with all people. The pious Israelite believer knew, for example, that the land was a gift from God. The land and all it signified – work, material goods, financial security, the practices of economic and everyday life – were to be understood within the context of one’s relationship with God; all gifts of creation, including personal talents and abilities, first of all belong to God. To say the least, the Catholic idea of the “proper stewardship” of God’s goods has a long history. Natural resources and human talents are to serve all people, with a particular concern for the poor and weak. Today, we are invited, as a matter of justice, to live in “a spirit of jubilee” all the time. We are called to constantly renew our practice of charity, the pursuit of justice, welcome to the stranger, and all our efforts to permit all people to participate in the life of the community.
We are being transformed in an on-going way by the power of the Holy Spirit and, therefore, called to open our hearts to Christ’s truth, love, and justice, and to grow in virtue. This is an essential part of what it means to be holy today. Each day, we are invited to commit ourselves to ongoing prayer, reflection, service, and action in preparation for the Lord’s coming in the “fullness of time.”
Let us pray. “Lord, when we eat, help us thank you for our meal and help us remember families who do not have enough food. Bless us so that we will not waste what we have, that we will share our food with others, and that we will be mindful of their need. When we play, help us thank you for the gift of free time and safety and help us remember those around the world, especially children, who are not able to play freely. When we pray, help us thank you for our families and help us remember all families around the world who live in poverty. May you be with all of us by the power of your Spirit and with the grace of your Son, you who live and reign forever and ever. Amen.”
