Daily Retreat 01/24/06

2006 Jan 24 Tue: Francis de Sales, bp, rf, dr M

2 Sm 6: 12b-15. 17-19/ Ps 23(24): 7. 8. 9. 10/ Mk 3: 31-35

From today’s readings: "The ark of the LORD was brought in.... The LORD of hosts; He is the king of glory.... whoever does the will of God is My brother and sister and mother."

Return of the Lost Ark

In one of the greatest liturgical celebrations of all time, King David led the Ark of the Covenant after a tumultuous history (cf. 1Sam ch. 4-7, and the preceding verses in 2Sam 6) to Jerusalem. Rhapsodic music, dancing with abandon, extravagant sacrificial offerings, free food for all, prayer and a royal blessing - what a party!

The Ark of the Covenant was the most holy of all sacred relics, a physical guarantee of the presence of the Lord God. It is understandable that its enshrinement in Jerusalem would be the cause of such rejoicing! Yet an important question remains for us: since we believe that the Eucharist is the Body of Christ, Its holiness surpasses even that of the Ark, which merely manifested the presence of God and was thus not equivalent to the very presence of God (as is the Eucharist). How then can our Eucharistic celebrations ever be apathetic, lackluster and lifeless?

Through the Eucharist, Sacred Scripture, and indwelling of the Holy Spirit, God has generously diffused the concentration of His sacred presence, but never diluted His presence! Obviously, this means we need to grow in our festive awe and awareness of the Lord’s Real Presence, so that each one of our liturgical celebrations will be the greatest all of the time!

 

P.S.    In future years, I do plan to specifically address saint's feastdays in these meditations, but up to this point, that's only happened rarely.  However,  I need to make an exception today for St. Francis de Sales!  At the beginning of this past Advent, I started reading his classic, Introduction to the Devout Life.  His profound theological insights, the inspiration of his life, and his intercession came together in these past months to bring such spiritual enrichment for my life, that I feel compelled to heartily recommend his writings to all who are hungering for the heartiest spiritual fare!  And thank You, God, for the continual blessing that You bring to Your Church through the inspiring wisdom of St. Francis de Sales, that great Doctor of the Church!