Things to Ponder
I use this page to share messages of an inspirational nature, or simply something to ponder. It is my hope that you will always be inspired.
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Homily Reflections – Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity - 2nd Letter of Paul to the Corinthians 13:11-13 and John 3:16-18
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Introduction: A Call to Community
This week, we the Church worldwide liturgically enter “Ordinary Time.” Having celebrated the high season feasts of Easter, Ascension, and Pentecost, we now begin our long, six-month, faith journey from June to December 3rd – the First Sunday of Advent. Ordinary times? As we look around us, we realize—sadly—these are hardly “ordinary times!” On this Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity – where we remember and celebrate the three persons of the Trinity, we are faced with our own trinity of challenges: a tragic polarization in our country; a fear of a recession and loss of investments; and civil unrest in our nation and calls for equality. Past generations only had to face one of these major challenges. We – our generation – are facing all three challenges at the same time! No wonder we might be overwhelmed. Stressed. At the breaking point. It’s really OK not to feel OK during these troubling times. It’s OK. And understandable.
And yet – with this trinity of challenges, anxieties, fears, and worries crashing up against our daily lives, we can find some comfort and meaning in this Sunday’s two readings. John’s Gospel contains one of the most famous passages in the New Testament: “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” In fact, it’s so popular that we often see the sign “John 3:16” posted high in sport stadiums for all to see. The Gospel truth is quite simple and profound. You and I are not alone. Our God entered human history to show us the way out and forward – and to accompany us through brokenness, self-isolation, and struggles to a far better place. We are not abandoned. We are not orphans. We will not perish. Our God is in control. Trust. Believe.
Although brief, St. Paul’s letter is spot-on and speaks to what is happening across our country today. In only three verses, Paul lays out a bold call to community: rejoice; mend your ways; encourage one another; agree with one another; live in peace; greet one another with a “holy kiss.”
Our nation is struggling—yearning—for a more inclusive community wherein all peoples—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religious tradition—are held in honor and respect. The call to the beloved community. And we can see a younger generation who are birthing these seeds of hope. As Catholics, we are called to reclaim our precious name: “catholic.” For we are a global church that treasures so many rich traditions, languages, cultures, races and ethnic groups. We are called to be more “catholic” in our own country – and be a part of the solution. And St. Paul gives us practical advice and wisdom as to how to live out this call.
I would invite you to take time to read and ponder the words from both readings for this feast day:
Second Letter of Paul to Corinthians 13:11-13 and John 3:16-18.
What word or words caught your attention?
What in these passages comforted/challenged you?
What conversion of mind, heart, and life is the Lord asking of me – especially in these troubling times?
Further Reflection on Solemnity of Most Holy Trinity
This beautiful feast day reminds us that even God lives in a community! Father (Creator). Son (Redeemer). Holy Spirit (Advocate). Our Trinitarian God lives in harmony and is certainly all-inclusive. Each “divine person” has a “task.” Each a responsibility. All are treasured and needed. (Obviously we speak in limited metaphors.) Likewise, you and I are called to community —and are invited to mirror the Holy Trinity—the divine community of equals. Are we up to the task today?
This great mystery—the divine reality of three in one—lies far beyond human reason. “If we think we truly understand the Trinity, then what we understand is not God.” —St. Augustine
Deacon David
Deacon David Suley
St. Patrick Catholic Church
Rockville, Maryland
Published with Permission
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