Saturday of the Fifth Week of Lent

First Saturday of the Month
Saint Isidore of Seville, bishop (560-636)

Readings of the Day
RB: Ch 53:1-15 Reception of Guests 
Mass: Ezk 37:21-28; Resp Ps (Jer 31); Jn 11:45-56

I will turn their mourning into joy.

I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE.
(Ezk 37:27)

Welcome to the First Saturday of Month and the winding down of our Lenten season. It is ironic that we begin two days of reading St Benedict's chapter on Reception of Guests (RB 53) at a time when we, united with most others in our world, are not receiving guests. And just last week, we were presented with St Benedict's prescriptions for those members working at a distance or traveling (RB 50), and those sent on a short journey (RB 51); all at a time when folks in the monastery or in homes are not traveling or journeying much at all. It seems, in fact, that cloistered monastic life has become more attractive. Like it or not, this does not mean that we cannot put into practice St Benedict's teachings on these subjects.

We begin simply by going to the first verses from today's reading: "All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ" (RB 53:1); "proper honor must be shown to all" (RB 53:2). We all find ourselves in the midst of unusual circumstances, may we be about welcoming and honoring one another with open and loving hearts. It is a time to be creative and employ what Pope Francis called the "creativity of love" in last night's Holy Week message. Even if you find yourself alone, it is possible to reach out in love. Call a loved one or neighbor, send an email or text, or send a handwritten note or letter.

As far as those designated to go out for one reason or another, whether it be work, travel, or a short journey to the supermarket or pharmacy, recall that PRAYER is NEVER CANCELLED. Therefore, if you find yourself unable to make it home for prayer or out on a journey, pray wherever you find yourself (RB 50:3) so as not to "neglect your measure of service" (RB 50:4). If it happens that you are designated to go out for an errand, don't presume to eat outside (RB 51:1). In any case, there are not as many temptations since most places are closed. Or put another way, do not tarry. It is best to get home.  

We join the Holy Father in prayer:

In these turbulent, difficult and painful times, people have the possibility of doing one thing or another, many of them good. At the same time, there is the possibility that some might get the idea of doing something not so good, to take advantage of the situation, to profit personally from it. We pray today that the Lord might grant an upright and transparent conscience to everyone, that they might allow God to look on them without shame.

Today's photo: Lilac courtesy of dear cousin MH.

SAINT ISIDORE OF SEVILLE,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2020