“For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork; blessed shall you be, and favored.”
Psalm 128
Readings
Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31
1 Thessalonians 5:1-6
Matthew 25: 14-30
Reflection
by Sister Maureen Niedermeyer, SNJM
The parable of the three servants tell us to use our talents so they may increase in value. We are invited to take risks with what we have been loaned and to give back more than we received. God has given all of us talents and happiness arrives when we share the gifts that are within us and we see the joy we can give to others. I remember how difficult it was for me to learn to play the harp when I was 60. After many hours of practice and years of weekly lessons I slowly began to see progress. Learning this instrument was the hardest thing I had ever done. It taught me humility and patience! My goal was to play for the sick and dying, new babies, busy staff and worried family members at the hospital. All that effort paid off with new joy when the music brought calm, healing, and reassurance. Have you talked to God about what gift you might share with others?
The second reading reminds us that nothing lasts forever. That makes more precious whatever time we have to nurture special relationships and to delight in them. Who are the persons you want to celebrate with now? In his Holy Rule St. Benedict says to keep death daily before our eyes, to be ready for the coming of the Lord. We are not to fear God’s presence but to anticipate being fully united to Him. We are God-strengthened when we run to Him, for He gathers us into His loving arms.
The first reading describes the qualities of a worthy wife; her values are beyond measure. Hopefully, each of us can recall our mothers who were loving and busy about many things.
How blessed we were to have been given such incredible life-giving mothers! Are we not invited to imitate them? Which qualities am I being led to develop in myself?
From the Rule of St. Benedict
“Every time you begin a new work, you must pray to God most earnestly to bring it to perfection.” Prologue, vs. 4
Gospel Acclamation
“Remain in me as I remain in you, says the Lord.
Whoever remains in me bears much fruit.” John 15:4a, 5b
Thank you, Sister Maureen, for your reflections. It was nice to hear of your story regarding how and why you chose to learn the harp at 60. As a 71 year old, I am currently trying to learn Gregorian chant and it is encouraging to hear of others who also are taking on new interests later in life.
You mentioned: “How blessed we were to have been given such incredible life-giving mothers! Are we not invited to imitate them? Which qualities am I being led to develop in myself.”
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