Sunday Scripture Readings, July 6, 2014 By Sharon K. Perkins Catholic News Service July 6, Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Cycle A. Readings: 1) Zechariah 9:9-10 Psalm 145:1-2, 8-11, 13-14 2) Romans 8:9, 11-13 Gospel: Matthew 11:25-30 Jerusalem -- sometimes called Davids City, Zion or the Holy City -- also is known as the City of Peace. When I traveled to Jerusalem on pilgrimage a few months ago, I wasnt sure what kind of peace I would find. I was both dismayed and pleasantly surprised. On one hand, Ive seldom felt more personally safe than in Jerusalem. The old city, in particular, was secure enough for little children to walk the streets unsupervised, for shopkeepers to display their wares on the sidewalks and for pilgrims of all sorts to sightsee without trepidation, day or night. If there had been clashes of arms, the historic ruins of fortress walls from the Crusader period were the most obvious signs. However, Pope Francis recent Jerusalem pilgrimage highlighted the very real and long- standing conflicts in the region. The City of Peace is indeed a city divided, as Christians, Jews and Muslims all claim the area among their most holy sites. Beyond the ancient city walls, the entire Middle East bears the marks of past skirmishes, armed attacks and the more recently erected walls and security fences separating Palestinians and Israelis. Alternating periods of bloodshed and attempted negotiation have resulted in a standoff -- an uneasy peace. Yet, the Holy Fathers strategy of public communal prayer and his unpretentious, affable manner have captivated hearts and created fresh hope for a bridge of lasting peace across the chasms of ancient hostilities. Todays Scripture readings speak of a similar hope: Jerusalems king, the just and meek savior, proclaiming peace to the nations, establishing his dominion. A power that resides not in the flesh but in the Spirit of the one who raised Christ from the dead. A great mystery hidden from the wise and the learned but revealed to little ones. In short, a peace that is not of this world but bestowed by the risen Lord as gift to those who trust him. Pope Francis high public profile ensures his ability to provide an example of peacemaking for others to emulate. Each of us can bring that same healing of conflict and an end to discord wherever we are. The prince of peace has given us this gift -- let us not keep it to ourselves. QUESTIONS: Think of a previous conflict in which you were involved: Were you a cause of it or were you a peacemaker? How can you follow Pope Francis example and bring the prince of peace into the areas of conflict in your life? SCRIPTURE TO BE ILLUSTRATED: He shall proclaim peace to the nations. -- Zechariah 9:10 END
Posted on: Sat, 05 Jul 2014 09:27:41 +0000
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