31st Sunday of Ordinary Time 

(RENEW - 5)

November 3, 2002

by Rev. Herbert Nichols

Jesus promised that He would Send, the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, who would instruct us in everything, remind us of all He taught, and create a bond of love among all peoples. Are we awake and aware of this truly awesome power that God desires to give His people to free them from violence, rage and terrorism?

This week Renew invites to reflect on the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit which we receive in Baptism, Confirmation, and daily prayer. To visualize this relationship we use the blessing of Holy Water and Renew of Baptismal Promises in our Liturgy today.

In the readings both Malachi and Jesus take serious issue with those who fail in responsibility, leadership and authority. They are chastised and challenged for their unfaithfulness and poor example in misdirecting and misguiding the people. Centuries separated these two visionaries indicating there is something in human nature that tempts those charged with teaching righteousness to consider themselves above their own prescriptions. "They say all the right things, but do not observe their own teachings."

The real challenge is to reflect upon power and authority and apply them to ourselves as ideals of a disciple of Jesus. We find St. Paul in the second reading as a model of such leadership. He works tirelessly, never-demanding special treatment, providing his own sustenance as well as sincere regard for the spiritual welfare of his flock. He was never deterred, not even while in prison, from leading people to God by word and by example. He had personal integrity and credibility because what he had received as gift, he have as a gift, not as a human being.

The power of the Holy Spirit is not one of control and authority and self-importance. It is a power that inspires us to love and live together in peace as a human family. It empowers us to recognize the radical dignity of all people as brothers and sisters, sons and daughters of God. to heal the original wound of sin to bring to fruition the garden of Eden. Renew 2000 is not the solution but an empowerment to help us begin the project.

If a child lives with criticism, he learns to condemn. If a child lives with hostility, he learns to fight. If a child lives with ridicule, he learns to be shy. If a child lives with shame, he learns to feel guilty. If a child lives with tolerance, he learns to be patient. If a child lives with encouragement, he learns confidence. If a child lives with praise, he learns to appreciate. If a child lives with fairness, he learns justice. If a child lives with security, he learns to have faith. If a child lives with approval, he learns self-acceptance. If a child lives with acceptance and friendship, he learns to find love in the world. If a child lives with prayer, he learns to know God. (--found in a Sub Shop. Food for today and soul.)