17 Sunday C

Gn 18: 20-32. A lesson in prayer
For the first time since the garden of Eden, God walks with a man and the two are comfortaable together. One of the things sin did was damage the relationship between God and Man. That was the significance of the man hiding because he was naked.
Abraham is a man of faith and so in once again confident in his relationship with God. Abraham feels so sure of the relationship that he bargains with God about the fate of Sodom.
Except for the prophets, this is the last time God and Man are shown to be in such a close relationship.
The story is an explanation for the tradition of a "minyan", a group of ten men that pray for the salvation of Israel.

Themes to consider: Persistence in prayer; Power of prayer groups; boldness in relationship with God

July 8, 2007

Israel ended up in exile for breaking faith with the Covenant. It must have been a traumatic experience. They lost everything they lived for and were slaves in a foriegn land. Now they are returning home. Consider the joy of homecoming as a theme. Jerusalem is the image for Heaven as well. Remember there will be no tears or sorrow, only exulting in the abundant blessings.

Isaiah speaks of "Peace" flowing like a river. Where do we experience that "Peace" today? It is often what is missing in many lives.

July 8, 2007

14th Sunday Ordinary Time, C
Is. 66:1-14 Isaiah calls for rejoicing as the exiles return from captivity. Those who had been cut off are now restored to the comfort of their "mother" Jerusalem. The Reign of God is prefigured in the joy they experience.
Gal 6:14-18 Paul wishes "peace and mercy" on all who follow the cross of Christ. He would have understood the exile as being seperated from Christ as compared to the joy of knowing Christ.
Lk 10:1-20 The mission of the Church is prefigured in the sending of the 72. They are sent to bring "peace" and announcing the reign of God.

What kind of message do we have to share with a post-Christian world?