Reflections for Sunday
Third Sunday in Ordinary Time - January 25, 2004
Ezra opened the book of the law in the sight of all the people. He read from the book clearly, so that the people understood the reading. Then he said to the people, "This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep. Go, eat rich foods and drink sweet drinks, and allot portions to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not be sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength."Nehemiah 8: 5-10
The Law of Love
Lord God, I know by faith that you created me in your own image. At the moment you called me into being, you imparted your own Spirit into my heart. My life is pure grace, a share in your own life. You gave it to me that you might love me, and hold me close to your heart for all eternity. In those rare moments when I see myself by the light of your truth, I look within my heart and see the work of your hand, I feel the warmth of your Spirit, and I hear the inner voice of your love.
But I am a poor sinner. I do not always see by your light. Too often I walk in darkness. The way is not clear to me. All my actions are compromises between my faith and my human condition. In place of your love I accept lesser things - self-interest instead of justice, resentment instead of compassion, anger instead of forgiveness, discord instead of peace. I become alienated from my own self. I no longer hear the inner voice of love.
But you never leave me. To bring me back to you, you give me the gift of your law. It is a lifeline that brings me back to the place at my center where I find you. It guides me clear of the dangers of sin that await me on every side. Your law is a delight to me, because it leads me back to you.
Lord Jesus Christ, take all my freedom, my memory, my understanding, and my will. All that I have and cherish you have given me. I surrender it all to be guided by your will. Your grace and your love are wealth enough for me. Give me these, Lord Jesus, and I ask for nothing more.