Tuesday of the Seventh Week of Ordinary Time
Wow! James is pretty tough in his message given in the 1st reading. But, history shows us there have always been conflicts within the Church. For example, there is Paul and Barnabas. Jerome and Augustine for starters, and the difference of opinion caries on to the present time. But the effect of such conflicts is not always bad. A number of conflicts have added to development and growth of the Church.
Today’s Gospel shows us that there were conflicts among the apostles. It also demonstrates how Christ resolved the problem. After reminding them he would undergo the Passion, he then held up a child as a model. Instinctively children accept people for who they are, not for what they believe.
This Gospel also shows the importance of training children, an activity that is most important today, a mission in which all of us should be involved, given the growing agenda and influence of educators committed to corrupting children and young people.
Resolve: I shall say special prayers during the week for those committed to educating children and young people and, if prudent and expedient, take a public stand against legislation corrupting students and supporting legislation against the natural law and Christian principles.