The Good News is certainly pleasant to every willing soul but it is uncompromising about one controversial topic, the love of one's "sister" and "brother" in the church.
The New Testament ordinarily uses those words of the fellowship of the gospel. Although some people insist that every human being is "brother and sister to me," and Saint Francis will go beyond that to speak of Brother Sun and Sister Moon, the inspired authors of the New Testament were content with the challenge of loving their fellow Christians. That was more than sufficient.
Extending the limits of fraternity and sorority to the entire universe dilutes the teaching. "Love everyone!" effectively means. "Love no one." But the command to show particular affection to those who gather around the altar often pushes personal boundaries.
As a pastor in a small town with three Catholic churches, I watched the parish councils gather annually for a joint session with an evening meal. Unless one of the pastors assigned seats to every individual, they sat with members of their own church. Or, more likely, with their own spouses and immediate family. Few met any strangers during these gatherings.
It goes without saying that this small town, like every city in the country, was racially divided. Suspicions, old resentments, and ancient fears were not laid to rest during these sacred synods.
The Spirit of God draws us out of ourselves when we're willing to set aside our familiar, comfortable fears. Too often we reply to these invitations with a simple no, or "I don't do such things." But we can pass up too many invitations; time will run out. If God's patience is unlimited, our time is not.
The season of Lent calls us out. Do it now. There may not be a tomorrow.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.