"All the children of Israel must keep a vigil for the LORD throughout their generations." Exodus 12:42
Today's readings offer a reminder of God's liberation of humanity, beginning with our forefathers of the Old Testament and ultimately through the unselfishness of Christ, the fulfillment of Isaiah's servant prophecy. Today's Exodus reading recalls the Israelites obligation to "keep a vigil for the Lord." Keeping vigil may remind today's audience of a Saturday night Mass, but there is so much more to this; keeping vigil is to keep watch in prayer. In my monastery, to keep vigil, the monks gather in the evening darkness to chant Scripture texts; this is done to commemorate salvation history and entrust God with our prayers and the prayers of others. Hopefully, this daily observance not only reminds the monk of salvation history but also challenges him to tell others about God's enduring mercy. Not all are called to monastic life, but all are called to keep watch for Him, recall and celebrate His great love, and spread that message to others.
As we attempt to live the Gospel courageously, it may be worth considering how well, or if, we have proclaimed its saving message? Does our recollection of God's saving actions invite others to seek and imitate Jesus or put their trust in Him? We may not be salesmen of the Church, but hopefully, those who encounter us may experience the sacred love which built and sustains her.
"Father, your mercy endures forever, help us recall and imitate that mercy."
Today's Reflection is by:
Lucius Amarillas, OSB
Did you know...
Brother Lucius Amarillas, O.S.B., is a monk of Saint Leo Abbey. He was born in California but grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada where he served as a catechist in his parish. After coming to study at Saint Leo University, he decided to join the Benedictine monks at Saint Leo Abbey where he currently serves as Prior of the Monastery, the Abbot's right hand that assists him in caring for the monks and their needs. Br. Lucius is also an adjunct professor of theology at Saint Leo University. Following his July 11 ordination to the diaconate, Br. Lucius will be finishing his studies for the priesthood for ordination to the presbyterate at the end of the year, God-willing.
