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| Background: Luke combines two parables in today’s Gospel, that of the mustard seed and that of the useless servants. The former is perhaps the better subject for a homily because its meaning is clearer. However, the second is deeper and richer. There is no such thing as a little faith any more than there is a little pregnancy. Faith is an overwhelming power no matter how weak it may seem. Given half a chance it will take over and direct our lives, comforting us when we are discouraged and challenging us when we are complacent. The second parable is at first
glance hard to reconcile with Jesus’ claim that his apostles are friends, not
servants in St. John’s Gospel. Perhaps he is being ironic here: you can’t earn
my love, it’s already given to you. Respond to my love with love of your own, but
don’t run around trying to impress me with how diligent you are. |
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Story: Once upon a time it was a mother’s fiftieth birthday (oh, horror of horrors!). Her children who loved her very much were determined to make the birthday party truly spectacular. The rented a hall, hired an orchestra, invited a huge crowd, and ordered dinner from the best caterer in the neighborhood. Each one of them presented a little speech about how wonderful their mother was. So hard did they work to make the party a complete success that they wore themselves and bickered through the whole evening. Each one tried to outdo the others in professing love for their wonderful mother. The mother cried through the whole party she was so happy. Well, said her husband, after it was all over, now you know how much your children love you. Oh, she said, with a sigh, I knew that all along. They didn’t have to prove it to me. I’m very grateful to them. Still, wouldn’t it have been much nicer if was only you and me and them sitting around a table and enjoying ourselves and the love we all have for one another.
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Psalm 95:1-2,6-9 1 O come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a
joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
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Catholics and the Struggle with Their Church The survey of the archdiocese, which Father Greeley describes as "a very complicated place" demographically, asks some difficult questions, and finds some interesting truths.  Editorial
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