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September 18, 2011, 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

"The last shall be first and the first shall be last." (Matthew 10:16)

READINGS:

l. Isaiah 55: 6-9
2. Philippians l:20-24 and 27
3. Gospel: Matthew 20: 1-16                        Readings Here

REFLECTION: When we read the Gospel of the latecomers who were paid the same wage as the early-risers, we scratch our heads and say, “Jesus can’t mean that.” But, thereby, we fall right into another trap - we assume that Jesus is offering an economics lesson. He’s not; He’s talking about God’s love and grace.

God’s love for us cannot be earned; it is fully given. That’s so for many of life’s other most precious possessions: life itself, friends, faith, contentment, peace. None of them can be bought or earned.

PRAYER: Lord, we bless you for the beauties and gifts of Fall. For changing leaves and harvest; for endings and new beginnings; for football and other favorite sports; for red, orange, purple and brown. For all Fall’s blessings we thank you, Lord. Amen.

FAMILY DISCUSSION:

Monday: Fall can remind us of our fight against death. Pray the Joyful Mystery of the rosary, The Annunciation. Focus on the word NOW. It is important, for Mary can represent God’s strength and comfort at each moment.

Tuesday: At the family meal tonight pray the prayer given above and talk about the blessings of Fall and the gifts of the harvest.

Wednesday: Make a typical Fall dessert for the family and/or a neighbor or friend. Get your hands into cutting fruit and use the spices and touch and feel and soak in the warmth of God’s love in giving us the fruits of the season.

Thursday: Read the book The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. Read it aloud to your partner, friend, and/or your children.

Friday: Be generous to someone today with time, talent or money and expect and ask nothing in return. Do this as a reminder of God’s unconditional love for you.

Saturday: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord.” (Isaiah 55:8) Think of some ways of the Lord which you would like to make your own.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, may we who are so generously blessed by your hands return thanks by being generous to others. Help us to sow bountifully and without grudges. Help us to discover those who really need our help, and enable us at all times to be a cheerful giver. Amen.