UNLESS A WHEAT GRAIN DIES

PRAYER PAUSE        

Thursday 10 August 2017, Laurence

UNLESS A WHEAT GRAIN DIES

Pause. Enter into the stillness of God within.

Reading: “I tell you most solemnly, unless a wheat grain falls on the ground and dies, it remains only a single grain; but if it dies it yields a rich harvest.”  (John 12:24-26)

Reflection. In the persecutions of the early Church there were many martyrs. But Laurence stands out as soemoone who caught the affection of the poor of Rome because of his generous service of them. He was doing something new in that harsh ancient world. And in the end he lost his life, most cruelly, in their service. He was a sign of what the church can do, and often does, today. Pope Francis wants priests and bishops to move away from enjoying “status” and “honour” to service of the people. And there are many today who never go to church at all who stir us by their generous service of the poor and those on the margins.

 

Prayer. Lord Jesus, may we be disciples who love and serve your people today, especially those who are suffering. Amen.