In the midst of our concern over the virus and the promise of the vaccines, this coming week will provide a signal where we as a Nation are going. We cannot ignore an emerging political crisis that may determine our future as a democracy. We wonder as we watch the antics of certain members of Congress why they are acting as they are.
During this time most of us will go about our daily lives, trying to keep some semblance of the new normalcy we are living in as a bulwark against being caught up in the crazy drama unfolding in Washington. For almost a year we have wanted a return to the old normal, but it does not seem to be happening in terms of public health or politics.
A new normalcy is what we now have. Our new normalcy includes food distribution from schools in towns and cities with high unemployment; it should also include those of us asking how we can help people who need such support. As Christians, we should be concerned with feeding the poor and the economically strapped due to the impact of the virus on our communities. Each of us should find at least one way to help.
Prayer for the Day
Seeing into our hearts, O God, as our communities struggle with hunger,
Open to us new ways to witness to your call to serve others;
Examining our ways of life, O Lord, as many face evictions and homelessness,
Bring us to a new awareness of what we must do as a society.
Move us beyond complacency into action so the least are not forgotten,
And be our strength and power as we strive to shape a new society.
In the name of him who calls us to care for others,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
The godless Galileans care not only for their own poor but for ours as well; while those who belong to us look in vain for the help that we should render them.
- Roman Emperor Julian bemoaning the new faith in Jesus (331-363)
It is an eternal obligation toward the human being not to let him suffer from hunger when one has a chance of coming to his assistance.
- Simone Weil, convert, active in the French Resistance (1909-1943)
My soul clings to the dust; revive me according to your word.
When I told of my ways, you answered me; teach me your statutes
Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your works.
My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word
Put false ways far from me and graciously teach me your law.
Psalm 119: 25-29