Saturday, March 17, 2012

Saturday of the Third Week
Reflection
We regularly speak about and recognize the Trinity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Yet today’s readings should encourage us to reflect on a different type of trinity – one of faith, action, and humility – and how we can live this trinity in balance.

In the Pharisee in Luke and the tribes of Northern Israel in Hosea, we find people who have yet to find the balance. The Pharisee boasts of fasting, tithing and praying to the point of exalting himself above the rest of humanity; all in the name of living out his faith. Similarly, we find Hosea preaching to people who are praying to other gods, presenting burnt offerings, and whose piety is no more significant than the morning dew. None of this reflects what God call us to do in His name.

Yet Luke’s and Hosea’s writings also point us to the right balance. Like the tax collector, we can have faith; but we should remain humble and recognize our own failings. We should perform loving faithful acts (tithing, service to others, prayer) but we should not be boastful. We can be humble and yet have faith in God’s forgiveness, glory, and resurrection.

As we prepare for Christ’s resurrection, let us take a moment to find the balance. How may we live our faith without exalting ourselves? How do our actions reflect the love of God to others? Each day, do we humbly seek forgiveness? In this spirit let us pray….
Prayer
Dear Lord, may I be humble enough to ask for Your forgiveness. May my actions reflect Your Love to others. May my faith be found in the resurrection.

Chad Ahern, ‘99, Donor Relations Officer

Scripture

First Reading: Hosea 6:1-6
Psalm 51:3-4, 18-21b
Gospel: Luke 18:9-14

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website


1 comment:

Edmundite Campus Ministry said...

Chad, I really appreciated your reflection about the faith, action and humility which mirror the faith, hope and love in Corinthians as well. Our faith, when lacking any one of these, becomes adrift. Thanks for reminding me to reevaluate if I am missing any of them.