From Our Lay Directors:
Recently, the well-known reading from Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 that starts, “There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for everything under the heavens…” was read at a daily Mass. It struck me how I forget about those words from Scripture when I am adjusting to the different way of life I am experiencing now, not necessarily viewing that this is the appointed time for these events. I have been enjoying immensely a daily reflection book named, “Balaam’s Donkey” by Michael Casey, OSCO. [The purpose of the title reflects that “God can use any channel to communicate a message - and that includes Balaam’s donkey”.] One of the reflections, aptly named “Seasons”, says, “As the famous reading from the third chapter of Ecclesiastes reminds us, there is a season for everything under the sun. This is more than mere poetry; it is reality, and we had better get used to it. Everything changes.” Not that everything may change, but that everything does change. And the reflection continues,” There are seasons in our life. What was appropriate in youth may not be suitable for mellower years. If we are wise, we will not allow ourselves to adhere to attitudes and practices that have passed their use-by date.” (Bold by me.) I look at this term of “use-by date” to not only referencing age appropriate behavior, but also faith appropriate behavior. As ongoing conversion in my relationship with God continues, and I work to reflect that growth in my actions, the hope is that I will see more opportunities for positive change, and take those opportunities, large or small. Sending a card. Calling someone who I know needs to be called. Making a meal for a family struggling for whatever reason. Holding my tongue when it isn’t necessary to speak. Being gracious in traffic and in the lines in stores, especially with those who are not being gracious. Speaking of Christ to someone who is thirsting for hope amid all the uncertainty of the world. For those of us blessed to be in a relationship with Our Lord, it is always the season for taking those opportunities for kindness, for thoughtfulness, for generosity, for affirmation, for accompanying each other in love and truth.
De Colores!
Kathy Otermat