Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“I do not pray for these only, but also for those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one.” In today’s Gospel reading (John 17:20-26), Christ tells his disciples that not only does he pray for them, but for all the people who hear the Word of God. Jesus continually prays that we are one holy universal church open for all. Jesus wants all Christians to unit at the table. We are called to the altar to celebrate Christ, yet how many times do we turn away our brother or sister? How many times do we condemn others because they are different or because we feel we are better then they are? Christ says that his church is open to all who believe. As Christ is in the Father and the Father is in Christ, the church is also present in Christ and God. As a member of the church, that makes us a member of the Mystical Body of Christ. As a member, we must accept everyone who joins us at the table. We do not have the right to discriminate against any of God’s children. The unity of Jesus and his Father is a unity of not only love, but obedience. We too must express unconditional love and obedience to God. In doing so, we must express the same love and obedience to our fellow brothers and sisters. When we deny the Eucharistic table to a fellow brother or sister, we deny the love God has poured out for us. Love is an expression and gift given to us at birth. We know love from the very instant we are conceived. We know love because we know God. We must learn to hate. Hate is something that we learn by watching others. What do people learn when they watch you?

A Simple Prayer

Lord God, have mercy on the people who form your church.

Give us the strength and wisdom to know your love and kindness.

Let us all gather around your table as one world.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon