In my absence, I have asked one of our lay presiders who leads the weekday Word and Communion Service to offer a reflection on the Sunday readings.
Scripture is filled with references to houses and Sunday’s Gospel is no exception. These references should come as no surprise, after all Jesus was a carpenter and will speak to what is familiar. If Jesus were living today, in the era of television, would He have a program on HGTV called Fixer Uppers or even Flip or Flop, shows taking houses ranking from eew to not-so-bad and candidates for improvement prior to becoming an everlasting home? Jesus, the carpenter, knows the need for a good foundation. Before any building can continue to be built the foundation has to be set, conditioned and in good shape. A good carpenter is aware of the need for load bearing walls/posts and other safety factors, before highlighting the must haves of an open concepts, a kitchen island for all to gather around. Our homes, our parish community, ourselves are reminded to keep our foundation and all parts of our home in good repair. A house divided against it-self will not last. In a good faith filled home God is at the center, doors are open and welcoming, food is shared in friendship and service with love for all. Does your house need a little (or a lot) of fixing up? Is it in need of a good Carpenter? If so, we all know One we can personally recommend.
Barbara Skierecki, Lay Minister