“Moses did exactly as the LORD had commanded him.” – EX 40: 16

 

Today we celebrate the Memorial of Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus.  Three people who are important not only to Jesus personally. but to each and every one of us. It is through their lives, that we should see the importance of having Faith, Hope and Love in our Triune God.

 

St Martha is the one who shows us how to transform ourselves from one who does all of the hospitable duties, of being a good host, to one who believes there is more to this life, there is Eternal Life.  St Mary is an example for us to realize that life in this world is not important in and of itself but only in union with Jesus.  Finally, it is through Lazarus that we know how we will be called from death and enter into Eternal Life, by the call of Jesus Himself.  However, where do we wish to dwell?

 

We hear in the First Reading today the word, “Dwelling”, mentioned eight times.  A dwelling is a temporary shelter made to be somewhere important for people to reside in this life on earth.  However, in Exodus, this temporary dwelling is where God lived with His People during a time of transition.  Is this not where we are in our time on Earth?  Our time in this life is but a temporary dwelling, a place where we figure out where we wish to live, in Heaven or Hell.

 

This is not just done mentally or spiritually, but in union, together, along with our physical time here on Earth.  Our time here on Earth is but a temporary shelter preparing us for the permanent time where we will spend our Everlasting Life after our death.  We know that we will die and leave this world and head to the next, with God waiting to judge us.  Throughout all time, the idea of a dwelling place is important for us in order to know where we shall lie in Peace until Jesus comes again.

 

However, what we must realize is that when we try to do more than we have received, the Grace from God, the living of our everyday lives will cause us to break down.  Should we blame God, we set up an obstacle which prevents us from freely receiving His Grace, His input into our lives.  This Grace is what Sts. Martha, Mary and Lazarus had.  The Jewish people wandered through the desert without a permanent home.  However, it is only with the presence of God, that we will find the Promised Land. In order for this to happen, we need to be transformed like Sts. Martha, Mary and Lazarus.

 

“Lord Jesus, may Your Word take deep root in my heart and transform my way of thinking, discerning, and acting.  May Your Spirit open my ears to hear and understand the Word of God in the Scriptures that I may revere and treasure both the Old and the New Testaments which God has prepared for all who desire to enter His Kingdom of Righteousness, Peace, and Joy.  Help me to be a diligent student and faithful disciple of Your Word.”

 

May God’s Grace and Blessings Always be with you and yours!!  Our Lady of Guadalupe – Pray for us!!  

 

Yours in Christ,

Deacon Bob

St. Clare of Assisi

Houston, TX