Homily: Fourth Thursday of Lent

Fourth Thursday of Lent (Ex. 32:7-14) “Don’t Give up”

The conversation that we have in the scriptures between Moses and God is a very curious one. We might wonder about some of the things that God says to the prophets in the Old Testament. Moses is the first of the prophets. He has intimate conversations with God.

Elsewhere in the story of Exodus, we hear Moses complaining about the people of Israel. In fact, Moses did not want to become the leader of the Israelites in the first place.

Could it be that Moses is projecting onto God his feelings about the Israelites. Is he ready to quit on the Israelites rather than God? God is the one who must tell him to continue his mission. How often do leaders become unhappy with the people they are working with?

We can feel the same way about the church community we belong to. If we are praying each day of Lent and doing other penance, we can feel like we are the only one. If we are constantly volunteering in our parish, we can feel like other people are not doing their part. We might get discouraged and give up on the whole Christian enterprise.

But at such times we should rethink our position. Did Jesus ever say that belonging to a Christian community would always be an uplifting experience? If we are disappointed in the weakness of our Christian brothers and sisters at times it is to be expected.

Can we commit to the Christian enterprise all over again when we are disappointed. If we can, this shows a new level of maturity. We have reached a new depth of faith.

God never gave up on the Christian community. If God did that the unconditional love of God would not have been something that all of us can depend on.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Have I ever been tempted to give up on my relationship with God? Have I been tempted to leave the church?

2.   What has kept me from doing these things? What does that say about my faith?

 Dear Parishioners,

             I recently sent in my reservation for the 50th Fr. Mirabelli Heritage Ball on March 23rd. There will be social time together. There will be a live auction and live music and dancing.

            Alleman needs our support more than ever. I would urge everyone to get your reservations in. It should be a special night for everyone who has a connection to Alleman High School.

            You can register on the Alleman website or call 309-786-7793. 

Do it today.

            May Our Lady of Peace pray for us,

            Fr. Mark