Benedictine Sisters of FL

Holy Name Monastery
Founded 1889

God

Sixth Sunday of Easter

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The theme of this gospel is clearly love but not the kind of love we see on film or on TV or hear on the radio or a CD.  In church hymns, too, we frequently sing about love.  But, as Oliver sings in the musical based on Charles Dickens’ story, “Where is love?” We ask: What is love?  Love is a gift freely given. Sometimes we hear this word “love” used in such a way that we degrade, lessen or weaken its significance.  The way Jesus and John use the word for love just doesn’t apply to chocolate, a long drink or an afternoon nap.  We may like and enjoy those things a lot, but we don’t “love” them in the way we love our neighbor.

It is notable, I think, that Jesus gives us just ONE love commandment. He does not say, “Love me, love my father or love God as I have loved you”. No, he says, “If you want to be my disciple, then you must love one another.” If we really love our brothers and sisters we do not have to worry if we love God. But, if we do not love everyone unconditionally, then there is no other way we can claim to love Jesus. We need to love like God loves, without exception.

Deep down, we all want to be loved.  We like people to be our friends.  Yet, because of our past experiences, the influence of parents and other people around us, the pressures of our society and our traditions, and plain bad habits, we often do not know how to love, do not know how to forgive, do not know how to be reconciled.  We do not practice the skills we know that promote healthy relationships.

Sometimes people will love us back; sometimes they will not. People learn to love by being loved.  We learn to share love and communicate our feelings by imitating the models we live with.  Remember your mom coaxing you when you received a gift or a compliment: “What do you say?”

When I genuinely love others, there will always be some who cannot love me back but there will be others who will really respond in love. And it may be that my love has empowered them to be loving too.  Benedict reminds us in the Prologue to the Rule – we heard it read just yesterday: “See how the Lord in His love shows us the way of life…. What is not possible to us by nature, let us ask the Holy One to supply by the help of grace … while there is still time, while we are in this body and have time to accomplish all these things … we must run and do now what will profit us forever.”  We know, but too often forget, that Jesus never told his disciples to LIKE each other.  He said: “LOVE one another.”  And, how does Jesus express love?   We know it is given freely and without reserve.  He gives us a “how to” when He says: “I am gentle and humble of heart.”  This is how we are to love one another: in humility with gentleness.   Just as we cradle and carry a precious glass object, we value and treasure our free gift of love with special caring.

It’s a life-long journey, isn’t it?  We may have fleeting moments when “perfect love” rises to the surface of our motivation to action.  I think it was St. Irenaeus who said a very long time ago that “The glory of God is a person fully alive.”  (John Powell)

You see, love is God’s very nature; God cannot not love. How does God love?  Full hearted and unconditionally.   Jesus gives us just one commandment that encompasses all the others. He does not say, “Love Me as I have loved you”. No, he says, “If you want to be my disciple, then you must love one another, as I have loved you.”   If we really love our brothers and sisters, including strangers and even enemies, we do not have to worry if we love God.  In one of our “love” hymns, we sing “Where love abides, our God is ever there.”

St. John does not say to us, “Wherever there are Christians, there is God” or “Wherever there is a Christian church, there is God”.  No, he says, “Wherever there is love, there is God”.  Wherever there is a person filled with love for others, God is there.

~Reflection by Sister Roberta Bailey, OSB

 

 

First Reading:   Acts of the Apostles 10:25-26,34-35,44-48         Second Reading:  1 John 4:7-10
Gospel:   John 15:9-17

 

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Fourth Sunday of Lent

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What’s weighing heavy on your heart? I’m here. Let’s talk.

 

In John’s Gospel, the evangelist has (already before Lent) walked us through the story of the Wedding at Cana.  Jesus, at a nudge from his mother Mary, interacted with the servers who followed his directions to fill the empty stone jars with water, only to be mystified when the water turns into the best wine in the house.   Now, John is the only evangelist who relates this story.  And, he is exact in some details: there were six jars, each 2-3 feet tall, each holding 9-10 gallons. That’s approximately 55 gallons of wine – which makes for quite a wedding!

Last Sunday, we witnessed an interaction of a different sort.  Jesus calls a halt to the desecration of His father’s house, the temple in Jerusalem.  Today’s Gospel takes a leap that skips over an interaction that sets up today’s teaching.  In that gap, we hear about the conversation between Jesus and the Pharisee Nicodemus who came to Jesus under the cover of darkness.  Nicodemus was struggling with some big questions.  As he said to Jesus: “I know you came from God.  Maybe you can shed some light on my quandary.”

Puzzled by what Jesus says, Nicodemus questions how an old man can be born again???  Jesus cautions him: “Don’t be amazed that I told you, ‘you must be born from above.’”  Here comes a sentence that I love: “The wind blows where it wills, you hear the sound it makes but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes.”  [Like Benedict said, Listen with the ear of your heart.”] Reminds me of a 70s folk song: “Blowin’ in the Wind” – “How many times must we look up before we can see the sky?  How many ears must we have before we can hear people cry?  The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind.”

John reports that Jesus assures Nicodemus: “In all truth I tell you, we speak only about what we know and witness, what we have seen and heard.  And yet people reject our evidence.  If you do not believe me when I speak to you about earthly things, how will you believe me when I speak to you about heavenly things?”

Jesus calls Nicodemus’ attention to the story in the Book of Numbers, when the people were in the desert and they complained against God and Moses. “Just as Moses lifted up the serpent … so the Son of Man must be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.”  John reminds us: “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.  God did not send his Son to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.”

Today, I believe, God is telling us: “What’s happening today: natural disasters, people against people violence, starvation and selfishness, dread illness …   It’s a wake-up call.  Like I said to the prophet Isaiah, yea these many years ago:  “I am the designer and maker of the earth.” Remember in Genesis, at the creation of life on this earth, I looked on all that had been created, and I said: “It is good. …  For, I am God, there is no other.  I will not speak in secret nor from some dark place.  I did not say: Look for me in chaos.  I promise justice, ‘the public face of love’.  I speak the truth.  Turn to me and be safe.  Say: From God alone comes my strength and safety.”

God continues speaking to us.  “All time is temporary in My eyes until you rest in ME eternally.  Today I tell you, just as I welcomed a midnight conversation with Nicodemus, I am here – day or night – for you.  What’s on your mind or weighing heavy on your heart?  Let’s talk.”

~Reflection by Sister Roberta Bailey, OSB

 

 

 

First Reading:   2 Chronicles 36:14-16      Second Reading:  Ephesians 2:4-10
Gospel:   John 3:14-21
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Second Sunday of Lent

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The story (I believe) calls each one of us to examine what mountain we must climb to see God’s glory.  You can call the mountain whatever you will – it’s your personal mount to climb.  Everyone’s mountain is different; but, to witness God’s glory, we must climb our “mountain”.  When we reach the mountaintop, we must stay alert, and have the insight to know that we are at the top.  The disciples could have missed Jesus’ transfiguration if they:

  • had been too busy taking in the view
  • were gloating over their status or talking about those they’d left behind
  • wondering about what was on the agenda for tomorrow
  • how long were they going to be up on this mountain anyway
  • wondering if there would there be time to finish what they had started when Jesus summoned them
  • were bickering over who was going to get use the walking stick going down the mountain
  • and, asking who’s going to provide the fish for tonight’s supper?

You fill in the blanks. You know what it is that keeps you from seeing God’s glory.   Our reading reminds us that Jesus went up the mountain to pray and as he was praying his appearance changed.  Prayer changes us too when we move away from telling God how to run the world. Prayer may or may not change the situation, but it most certainly will change us.  The only difference between the written word MOM and WOW is our perception!  On the mountain Jesus did not change His shape but suddenly the disciples’ perception changed and they were able to see Jesus in a whole way.

So, what causes you to miss the “small miracles”, the “everyday transfigurations” in nature, in yourself, and in each other? We need to thank God when we get to the top of the mountain; but we can hardly stay there.  There are more mountains to climb.  While you are at the top, if only for an instant, don’t miss the transfiguration.

Jesus did not become “more God” that day on the mountain.  I don’t think the change was so much in Jesus, as it was in the disciples.  They were ready.  They had climbed the mountain.   And their eyes were open to witness the miracle of the moment.  Transfigurations we sometimes call “miracles” are all around us IF we but have the eyes to see.

  • Miracle of God’s graciousness when a person holds a door open for another
  • Miracle of God’s loving-care when a chair is vacated to give another a seat
  • Miracle of God’s inclusion when we make space at table
  • Miracle of God’s mercy when a mistake is not challenged in public
  • Miracle of God’s hospitality when an open invitation is extended
  • Miracle of God’s steadfastness when day after day we gather for communal exercises
  • Miracle of God’s perseverance when we come through tough times – individually and as a community
  • Miracle of God’s humility when reconciliation occurs
  • Miracle of God’s generosity when we give from our need
  • Miracle of God’s compassion when an offer is extended before the other has to ask
  • Miracle of God’s humor when it rains on our picnics
  • Miracle of God’s artistry in the beauty of nature that surrounds us
  • And always, God, thank you for the miracle of tomorrow: the gift of a new sunrise, a new slate, a new beginning.

Make your own litany of miracles.  God is already there, is here.   Jesus invites us up the mountain and leads the way.  We just need to open our eyes to witness the transfiguration.

~Reflection by Sister Roberta Bailey, OSB

 

 

 

First Reading:   Genesis 22:2-9a        Second Reading:  Romans 8:31b-34
Gospel:   Mark 9:2-10
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First Sunday of Lent

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In the liturgical cycle of readings, this Gospel from Mark was originally only two verses – later the church added two more verses – but it is still one of the shortest Sunday readings.  It tells us only that, immediately after His baptism, Jesus was led into the desert by the Spirit to be tempted by the devil, for 40 days.  You’ll notice that Mark, unlike Luke and Matthew, does not outline for us the three temptations of Jesus.  He simply lets us know that the conflict between Jesus and Satan only begins in the desert. The ultimate test will be in Jesus’ final hours on the cross.

We are now six days into our Lenten journey of 40 days.  When did you last walk in the wilderness?  Are you in the wilderness now?   Passing through deserts is an unavoidable part of life.  We do have to pass through them; not get stuck in them.  In the desert, we soon find out we are too weak to go it alone. According to St. John Chrysostom: “The Spirit drags Jesus into the desert, since he wanted to draw the devil there; and Jesus gave occasion to him not only on account of his hunger but also on account of the place: for then most especially does the devil attack when he sees people isolated and by themselves.”  No wonder Benedict urges us not to be isolated in our Lenten journey: “Let the entire community during these days of Lent (together strive) to keep their manner of life most pure.”

We’ve heard the expression “practice makes perfect” so often that the meaning may have lost its impact on us.  Each year at the beginning of Lent we may feel like a skater or a musician who’s been laid up for a year without practice. Lent gives us a jump-start of courage to pick up the practices that will support the values we profess and hold dear.  The biggest temptation most of us have to face is to “give up” because we stumble.  What would you think if you dialed a wrong number and got this recording: I’m not available right now, but I do thank you for caring enough to call me.”  (How sweet!)  But it continues: “I am making some changes in my life.  Please leave a message after the beep.  If I do not return your call, you are one of the changes.”

Lent is God’s call to us to make God and godly values the center of our life.  It is a time for honesty and stability.  The desert of life can be a vast expanse of sand and rock, punctuated by ragged hills, blistered by a relentless sun; a barren land in which little grows.  But, depending on our outlook, the space can be filled with mysterious unexpected experiences.   It can be a place not only of testing but of beauty where faith can grow.  Mirages give us false hope.  A welcome pool of water or a dripping cactus can reveal to us, in the blink of an eye, a reflection of what we really look like.   During Lent we are simply being asked to dare to be convinced that this is a wonderful opportunity to rediscover our true self-worth and the wonder of being the child of a loving God.  We are challenged not to focus on the storm clouds of chronic health conditions or what we DON’T have.   We do well to focus on all that we DO have: our faithful supporters, the friends who DO make contact, the companions who DO treat us gently, our God who, even with all the concerns and pleas that are raised for attention, remembers ME and loves ME with unfailing love.

Personal deserts are unavoidable; they’re part of life. We need Christ and we need the ministry of others if for nothing else than to teach us lessons of dependence and interdependence.  We’ll never be as strong or wise as we’d like to be. We need the grace of God in Christ. We need the ministry of each other and all of God’s people to strengthen us by their prayerful support and good example so that we, too, might take up our crosses and follow Jesus.   We pray that like that voice message said mentioned earlier, we do take the opportunity of Lent to make changes on our lives.  But unlike that voice mail message, may we never hear God’s voice and choose not to return the call.

Let us pray in the words of Pope Benedict XVI: “O God, open my eyes to my weaknesses and my heart to your merciful love.”

~Reflection by Sister Roberta Bailey, OSB

 

We are six days into Lent …  how are you doing with your resolutions?  Had to make any adjustments?  Remember don’t try to outdo the pace of grace.  It’s not a contest.  The finish line for Lent is still weeks to go – a blur in the distance.

The Sisters’ anniversary of the day our 5 founding Sisters landed to Pasco County FL from Pittsburgh, PA will be celebrated on February 28.  If you are inclined to send an e-card or a greeting in the mail, you can use the address below …   With much gratitude for your loyalty to the Benedictine Sisters. 

PO Box 2450, St. Leo, FL 33574 

 

First Reading:   Genesis 9:8-15         Second Reading:  1 Peter 3:18-22
Gospel:   Mark 1:12-15

 

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Be Amazed

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On this day, as Jesus begins speaking, a man with an unclean spirit (a demon) stands up and initiates a confrontation with Jesus. There are a couple of things to note about what this demon says and what that reveals.  Those gathered around may have known Jesus as an inspiring teacher.  But this wily demon knows His true identity.  Do we know Jesus as intimately as this demon?   It’s fascinating; like at a tennis match.  Attention pings back and forth from the outspoken fellow to Jesus.  It’s like nothing these people have heard before. This Jesus has authority. His words make a difference. Even the man with an unclean spirit is shocked and intrigued by Jesus. “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us?”

There are times when we may be inclined to settle into the company of the humble, calm, peaceful Jesus, shying away from the power and authority of Jesus except maybe when we’ve had a day of defeat and been at cross-purposes with the world.  Then we take great hope and comfort in the power of Jesus.   We identify with the sentiments of the “cursing” Psalms.   If you are anything like me, you call on Jesus, on God our Father, the Spirit, whoever will listen to our pitiful story.  We ask God to raise a hand and make the world stand still until we catch our breath.  We grab our “beads” (rosary), do some slow breathing trying to quiet ourselves.  But nothing’s working, that is, until we recall what Jesus said to the demon: “Be quiet!”  “Come out!”

The demon recognizes and identifies Jesus as God in flesh (Holy One of God).  Listen closely – it’s also clear that the demon recognizes Jesus as a threat – as the One who has the power to destroy the forces of evil. When Jesus gets a chance to speak, the demon can only respond in one way – complete obedience.

We do well to remember that God is in control.  Those who were attentive that day Mark describes saw Jesus’ power over the demon.  Like the disciples in the storm, they heard the commanding voice of Jesus say: “Be Quiet!” (Is he talking to the demon?  Or to me?)  “Be quiet!” Be AMAZED!

~Reflection by Sister Roberta Bailey, OSB

 

Surprise!  February is just around the corner …  Madri Gras, Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday on February 13 / 14

  Enjoy the celebrations and sit with the Spirit to do prep work to prepare for a spiritually profitable Lenten experience.  God bless!

 

First Reading:   Deuteronomy 18:15-20         Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 7:32-35
Gospel:   Mark 1:21-28

 

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“I Will Teach You How to Fish for People”

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A variety of motives influence people to exchange their old lives for new ones. What convinces a “seeker” that it’s worth leaving behind life as they know it?   Most of us know from our own and each other’s vocation stories, it’s the relationships we witness and experience within a community much more than our ministries that prompt newcomers to “test the waters.”

We, (individually and as a community), can put our full energy into the production all kinds of “lures” and “bait” … retreats and workshops, attractive vocation materials, holy cards, videos, websites and other social media … but that’s only part of what Jesus meant when he promised to teach us how to fish for people.  But, keep in mind that vocation – to any and every state in life – is GIFT!   And, remember fishing from our boat requires that each one has to do her assigned task of mending the nets, casting the line or preparing bait … no slackers allowed.  And, all of us have to row in sync lest we tangle oars or go in perpetual circles.   Look to Jesus – how did He fish?  He taught, He gave witness, He invited; He did not disappoint, He was (and is) faithful to His word.

So, what kind of witness do we need to be constantly giving?  What do we need to leave behind (individually and communally) to convince an observer that our community is worth a further look?  It’s an exceptional challenge in these pandemic times.  But the phone calls and email messages; the ZOOM Oblate Meetings, the videos on our website, the personal letters, the eblasts from our Advancement Staff keep our readers coming back.  In current lingo, the “soft touches” are ways to seal the friendships and supportive interest that last a life time.  What is the bait, the lure that will prompt more questions, extended visits, developing relationships and finally prompt someone to dare to say, “This is where I feel God is calling me; I’m willing to follow His lead, to leave all behind for the sake of Jesus’ call, with these Sisters (whom I now call my own) here at Holy Name Monastery.”

~Reflection by Sister Roberta Bailey, OSB

 

Have a good week…   Be good Fishers for Christ…   God Bless

 

 

First Reading:   Jonah 3:1-5,10         Second Reading:  1 Corinthians 7:29-31
Gospel:   Mark 1:14-20

 

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