The Call

     Time and time again we hear the call of God, the invitation to "be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect." (Mt. 5:42)   What a challenge!  One of my frequent departure sayings is "Be good".  This goes way beyond that.  It is difficult enough to be good ... to be perfect takes it to an entirely new level ... and to be perfect as the Father is perfect - Wow!

     Paul reminds us today in 2 Corinthians (2Cor 8:1-9) that the grace of God has been given to the church, poured out so that they/we may embrace what comes our way and run with it, that we may recommit to service of both God and each other and the world, that our lives be lived in love and charity, that we be Christ to and for others.  This is part of what it means to be God-like, to be holy, to be perfect.  This is the Call.  A daunting task, an impossible dream, apart from the awesome grace and blessing of God.  But with him and in him and through him nothing is impossible.

     Give your YES to the Call.  Give you THANKS for the grace of God.  Give your LOVE to all entrusted to your care.  And give PRAISE to God for his trust in us.

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     Keep in your prayers the bishops of the United States as they meet in Session in Seattle this week.  There are many important items on their agenda including a review of child protection policies.  If you are interested in a great insight into Church news and the like, I invite you to check out one of my favorite blogs, Whispers in the Loggia  by Rocco Palmo.  He also gives extensive coverage to the Bishops' Conference.