June 18

June 18, 2014:  Wednesday, 11th Week, Ordinary Time

Readings

• 2 Kgs 2:1, 6-14  When the Lord was about to take Elijah up, he and Elisha were on their way from Gilgal.  Elijah / Elisha, “Please stay here.” / “I won't leave you,” and they went on together. / “What may I do for you?” / “May I receive a double portion of your spirit.” / “That's not easy, but if you see me taken up, your wish will be granted.” / A flaming chariot and horses came, and Elijah went up. / “My father!”  Elisha tore his garment, picked up Elijah's mantle, went back to the Jordan, and struck the water; it divided and he crossed.

• Ps 31:20, 21, 24  "Let your hearts take comfort, all who hope in the Lord."  Great is the goodness in store for those who take refuge in you.  You hide them from human plottings.  Love the Lord!

• Mt 6:1-6, 16-18  “Don't perform good deeds so people see, or the Father won't reward you.  When you give alms, don't blow a trumpet to win praise; don't let your left hand know what your right is doing.  When you pray, don't stand and pray so others see you; go to your inner room, and pray to your Father in secret.  When you fast, don't look gloomy or neglect your appearance so others think you're fasting; anoint your head and wash your face, so only your Father knows.  When you give alms, pray, and fast in secret, your Father will see and repay you.

Pope Francis

• Audience:  The Church is a mother, a family, a mystery to embrace the human race.  God called Abraham to set off for a new land and promised to make him father of a vast people, to bless all nations; God took the first step in choosing him and his household.  God's way isn't always clear, nor the path free of obstacles, including temptation.  The history of God’s people is one of God’s fidelity, mercy, and love; only by his aid can we persevere.  Lord, sustain the Church on her journey, guide her to heaven, and make her a blessing and sign of God’s loving plan for all.  (1st of series on the Church)

• Help refugees:  Be close to refugees, sharing their fears and their uncertainty, and give them concrete help.

Music

• Psalm 31/ Clark Sisters

Reflections

• Creighton:  Elisha is loyal; he stays with Elijah to the end.  How can I be loyal to those dear to me?

• One Bread One Body:  Staying with Jesus is hard when he calls us where we don't want to go.  Where is he leading now?  Will I follow?

• DailyScripture.net:  Jews considered prayer, fasting, and almsgiving the pillars of good livingmdash;when done to glorify God, not oneself.

• Sacred Space

Apparel

• "Chariot" and "horse" tie pins:  "a flaming chariot and flaming horses came between Elijah and Elisha" (1st reading)

• "Wall Street" tie:  Elisha stood at the 'bank' of the Jordan (1st reading)

• "Abacus" tie pin:  When Elisha struck the water, it divided.  [how to divide with an abacus] (1st reading)

• "Hearts" suspenders:  "Let your hearts take comfort" (psalm)

• "Angel with trumpet" pin:  "When you give alms, don't blow a trumpet" (gospel)

• "Kneeling person" tie bar:  Don't pray so others may see you (gospel)

• Green shirt:  Ordinary Time (season)

Dress your life!