Tuesday of the Second Week of Easter

Year of Saint Joseph

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Other saints: Pope Saint Martin I, Martyr (598-655); Bl. Margaret of Castello or Metola (c. 1287-1320)

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 59 The Offering of Sons by Nobles or the Poor

Mass: Acts 4:32-37; Resp Ps 93; Jn3:7b-15

The Lord is king; He is robed in majesty.

HEART OF JESUS, KING AND CENTER OF ALL HEARTS,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

 

Some verses from today's first reading at Mass, taken from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 4:32-37), are included in the Holy Rule of Saint Benedict. It is no wonder, as the community of believers described in the Acts of the Apostles is life in Christian community, that is, a community of believers "of one heart and mind" (Acts 4:32). Although life as set forth in the passage from the Acts of the Apostles is a foundation of life in Christian community, our holy father Benedict refers to two verses, verse 32 once, and verse 35 twice, in his chapters on private ownership (RB 33), distribution of goods according to need (RB 34), and clothing and footwear (RB 55). 

For your reflection, I include for you here how St. Benedict uses the verses. First, regarding monks and private ownership, we read: "For [the monks'] needs, they are to look to the father of the monastery, and are are not allowed anything which the abbot has not given or permitted. All things should be the common possession of all, as it is written, so that no one presumes to call anything his own (Acts 4:32/RB 33:5-6). Second, regarding distribution of goods according to need, we read: "It is written: Distribution was made to each one as he had need (Acts 4:35). By this we do not imply that there should be favoritism-God forbid-but rather consideration for weaknesses. Whoever needs less should thank God and not be distressed, but whoever needs more should feel humble because of his weakness, not self-important because of the kindness shown to him. In this way all the members will be at peace. First and foremost, there must be no word or sign of the evil of grumbling, no manifestation of it for any reason at all" (RB 34:1-6). And third, regarding clothing and footwear: "The abbot, however must always bear in mind what is said in the Acts of the Apostle: Distribution was made to each one as he had need (Acts 4:35). In this way the abbot will take into account the weaknesses of the needy, not the evil will of the envious" (RB 55:20-21).

Dear Jesus, may we be so blessed to live in a community of believers, and give us the strength and courage to live fully such a life. And if we do not find ourselves in a community of believers, may each one of us be true to the faith and give full witness according to your Divine Will. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

POPE SAINT MARTIN I,

BLESSED MARGARET OF COSTELLO,

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This red-headed woodpecker is busy.

© Gertrude Feick 2021