Fr Ed Homily 9-1-20

Getting Things Straight

Hard to believe that it is September. In some ways, this year has dragged on. In other ways, it is advancing too fast. We have a lot to look forward to. The fall has always been a favorite time of year for me. I like the colors, the crisp air, the smell of apples, and just being outside to witness God’s creation. We have some hesitancy, too. We are still in a position where we do not understand this virus. We are attempting to start school. We have planned and prepared. But the target keeps changing. Information on what to do and how to do it is to say the least confusing. Some people follow the guidelines, others do not. Everyone has an opinion but truly little facts or data to back up what they are saying. There seems to always be another expert with a different viewpoint.

St Paul is explaining to the Corinthians in the first reading that with all that is happening about them, they need to set their priorities in the right order. I think we could take a lesson from his teaching.

Our first priority must be God. St Paul speaks of listening to the Spirit to help discern who God is. What we are to do and how to respond. That trusting in the Spirit will guide us in our daily lives and activities.

Second priority, if you are married, is your spouse. This might be somewhat surprising to families. Too often we hear that everything is for the children. That is not the teaching of the church. After God, it is your spouse.

The third priority is your children. If you do not attend to your spouse and continue to deepen that relationship your marriage is not going to succeed. Our culture confirms this. Look at the number of divorces that occur today with children in the family. On an informal poll, the breakup comes because of lack of communication. Husbands and wives divorce because little attention was given to the marriage, it was all focused on the children. Children need your attention, yes, but they come after the bond of husband and wife.

The fourth priority then should be your work.

Take a moment today to listen to the Spirit. Where are your priorities? Have you got things in the right order? If not, what are you going to change?

May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen