Homily: Second Wednesday of Lent

Second Wednesday of Lent (Mt. 20:17-28) “The Last Shall be First.”

It seems like we are taught from the cradle to be in competition with one another. This even spills over into religious settings. Our recent Popes have often decried careerism. Unfortunately, many find it hard to listen to someone who has made it to the top of the heap so to speak.

It is much easier to believe someone who has chosen to serve in difficult circumstances where they must make great sacrifices. When they speak of being happy in a tough situation, they are more believable.

I think of someone like Solanus Casey who was a Franciscan priest who served at a friary in Detroit for most of his life. He was not a good student. He was ordained simplex which meant that he could not hear confessions and teach. He was given the task of being the doorman. It was determined that this is all the responsibility he could handle.

How deflating that must have been for him. His brother Franciscans, who were better educated and were the ones ordained probably smirked at Father Solanus who worked in the sacristy and around the friary cooking and cleaning.

But Solanus was the first person, people met when they came to the church door. When others had no time for visitors Solanus listened to their problems and prayed with them. He also was able to bring healing to their life. Miracles were attributed to him.

The man with no responsibility is in process of becoming a saint. He sought no power, yet he had all the influence that anyone could want. He is an example of what Jesus was describing in the Gospel. We do not need a place at the right or left of Jesus at the banquet table. We should be the one who serves the meal.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Am I jealous of anyone? Who and why?

2.   Have I heard of Solanus Casey? Would he be a person I would like to be like?

Dear Parishioners,

             Tonight at 5:30 p.m. we will have the Stations of the Cross and a simple meal. After that we will talk about two more Eucharistic miracles at the Damien Center. This is an opportunity to have prayer and fellowship.

            Remember that we will also have another session where we will watch “The Chosen” on Sunday at 2 p.m. Come and discuss this provocative series.

            May Our Lady of Peace pray for us,

            Fr. Mark