Sunday Scripture - Reflection for May 12, 2024

Sunday Scripture - Reflection for May 12, 2024

Photo by Heidi Clark

Gospel Reflection: May 12, 2023 - Seventh Sunday of Easter
John 17:11b-19
“Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth.”
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Fr. Ron Rolheiser, OMI tells the story of a doctor going out to dinner with her spouse. They are sharing a lovely meal in a fine restaurant when suddenly, a few tables over, another patron clutches his chest and passes out.

In that moment, even though the doctor and her spouse may be having an important conversation about their children, an upcoming getaway, or how to address the situation of a leak in their roof, by virtue of the Hippocratic Oath, she has been consecrated to drop everything and help the man who has passed out.

In baptism, we are consecrated, too, and this Gospel passage reminds us that it’s God’s truth we are set aside to personify. Early on in our Christian journeys, we learn that God is love. So, how do you personify love? When you wake up in the middle of the night to feed a hungry baby. When you buy lunch for the unhoused person sitting on the curb outside the gas station. And when you spend time caring for an elderly parent.

My husband has a morning ritual that reminds him of his “consecration.” As he puts his wallet in his pocket, places his wedding ring on his left hand, and grabs his keys, he reminds himself that he has been set aside to care for his wife and family, provide for them through his job, and to keep our home safe.

What are you consecrated for, and do you recognize it as living out God’s truth?

Heidi Clark
Wildflowers Community
Houston, TX​

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