"Jesus (is the) mediator of a new covenant, and the sprinkled Blood that speaks more eloquently than that of Abel." - Hebrews 12: 24
Embracing the Gospel is enhanced by our discerning God's word in the Old and New Testaments: the history of our salvation. The letter to the Hebrews in today's reading contrasts two assemblies: one in Egypt where God made a covenant with the Hebrews in the midst of thunder and lightning, and the other assembly in the heavenly Jerusalem where countless creatures, angelic as well as human, celebrate the new covenant or relationship God made with us through the death and resurrection of Jesus. God has bestowed His grace upon us in the waters of baptism and transformed us into his sons and daughters: yes, co-heirs to God's kingdom.
That status challenges us to live each day by spiritual values: to attach ourselves to the things of God; to find our joy and purpose in service to others; to listen to God's voice speaking in the quiet of our hearts; to seek what is right in all things; to be compassionate and forgiving; and to work for truth, justice, peace and love in our homes and communities.
If you can do something for no other reason than to bring joy to people's lives, and put yourself second for the needs of another, blessed are you. And if you can diffuse someone's anger, bridge a chasm between you and another, bring a positive perspective to a situation, and endure a negative look from someone because you do what is morally and ethically right, blessed are you.
How can I bring joy to someone I know?
Lord Jesus, help me to live as a son and daughter of God our Father.
Reflection by:
Fr. Kevin Mackin, OFM
Did You Know...
Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, of St. Anthony Friary in St. Petersburg, has served in parish ministry and chaplaincy, and as a college president and professor. His articles and books include Enjoying God's Gifts; Get Thee Behind Me, Satan: Rejecting Evil; and Christian Unity: The Next Step 'That They May All Be One.' His website is afranciscanjourney.blogspot.com.
