Service is at the heart of today’s scripture readings (Isaiah 61:1-3,6,8-9; Luke 4:16-21).
Here are readings that are alive and addressed to each one of us.
In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah speaks with the voice of an
animated one:
“The Spirit of the Lord has been given to me…..
He has sent me to bring good news to the poor”
These words were spoken in ancient times but have a clear message for today.
In the Gospel Jesus reads the same passage and gives it life in his day.
“this text is being fulfilled today, even as you listen” he says.
Christ continues to give us the same message through his body, the Church.
This message of service is addressed to all who are baptised but, in particular, to those in leadership.
The future of the Church in Ireland gets quite a bit of coverage these
days. Nostalgia for what was is hardly the road to travel. Rather it will be shaped by those brave enough to say “Here I am, Lord. Send me!”
And so I thank all who serve in any capacity within the Diocese. Your service is appreciated by the Good Shepherd, Christ who us the Church.
In this Jubilee Year of Hope we are invited to put Christ at the centre of Life. We are called to walk in God’s company, trusting his goodness and
guided by his wisdom. Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd loves his Church and will guide it in the years ahead.
We may see a humbler, holier and smaller Church but it is in safe hands.
We rejoice in the Lord’s goodness.
May he who began the good work in us bring it to completion.
