In reflection of Lk 11:29-32
there something greater
than the wisdom of Solomon
there something greater
than the preaching of Jonah
there something greater
than the willfulness of men
there something greater
than the sinfulness of men
there’s no greater peace
than the ever presence of the Holy Spirit
there’s no greater joy
than an encounter with the Son of God
there’s no greater love
than the boundless mercy of the Father
there’ no greater feeling
than being loved just as you are
Just as from the heavens
the rain and snow come down
And do not return there
till they have watered the earth,
making it fertile and fruitful,
Giving seed to the one who sows
and bread to the one who eats,
So shall my word be
that goes forth from my mouth;
It shall not return to me void,
but shall do my will,
achieving the end for which I sent it. – Is 55:10-11
like the desert
my soul was parched
thirsting for each word
from you, oh Lord
the rain fell on these
rocks and washed away
your words did not sink
into my thirsty soul
until the Word Incarnate
came and softened the soil
making it fertile and fruitful
and renewed the wellspring
now the words from heaven
fall and collect
and the Garden thrives
an oasis in the desert
Jesus said to them in reply, “Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do. I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners.” – Lk 5:32
thank you, Lord Jesus
for bringing the light of good news
to those of us who are born into darkness
we who are in heavy in debt
appreciate your generous forgiveness
more than those who are wealthy
we who have serious illnesses
are grateful for your healing presence
more than those who are healthy
we who have been humbled
by our sinful nature have contrite hearts
more open to your love
we who are lost sheep
are more thankful to be found
than those who have never strayed
thank you, Good Shepherd
for bringing the kingdom of God
to the rest of your flock
My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit;
a heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn. – PS 51:19
my Lord, before you my life is an open book
in your gaze my soul is transparent
yet i fashion fig leaves of my own making
to hide the shame in my heart
so i seek to win back your favor
with fasting and exacting penitent observances
like i could hide my selfish intentions
and when i’ve exhausted all of my efforts
and lost all hope of earning redemption by myself
with despair gripping my soul and pride seeping away
all that was left was destitution – complete poverty of spirit
only then did i cry out for help
only then did i realize i needed you
only then did i turn to you with contrite heart
yet in that moment
i became aware of your presence
my tears turned from contrition to joy
as i felt your love pouring over me
now all i want to do
is fast from the world
and feast in your presence
with a contrite, humbled heart
Then he said to all, “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily* and follow me. – Lk 9:23
O holy Grace,
thank you for the wisdom
to understand
that denying myself
means not choosing
my own cross
but accepting the cross
that you give to me
It isn’t my cross
that will gain me life
Jesus has already
won that victory
To follow Jesus means
to treasure this gift of life,
bear witness to his works,
and when called
be a channel for his works.
Grant that my cross will be
for your greater glory.
Longing For Water 