Virtual Retreat

Daily scriptural reflections by Fr. Rory Pitstick, SSL from Immaculate Heart Retreat Center in Spokane, WA
Also available via daily email

Thursday, February 22, 2007

Daily Retreat 02/27/07

2007 Feb 27 Tue: Lenten Weekday
Is 55:10-11/Ps 33(34)/Mt 6:7-15

From today’s readings:  “Thus says the LORD: Just as from the heavens the rain and snow come down ... So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth.... The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit He saves.... This is how you are to pray:  Our Father who art in Heaven....”

The Fruitful Word of God

In the first reading, God explains that His Word is like the rain and snow that come from above, irrigate the earth, and then return after completing their purpose of bringing fertility to the land.  Jesus, the Word of God, came down from Heaven and became flesh when Mary welcomed the Annunciation of the Angel.  Christ’s life, Passion, saving death, and glorious Resurrection brought the blossom of the New Covenant to the ends of the earth.   When His end on earth was achieved, Jesus ascended into Heaven, returning to the Father.

Likewise, the Word of God in Scripture is never to be barren: when we listen and read, and allow it to take root in our heart and make a difference in our lives, then we have the glorious privilege of grafting ourselves to that Word whose destiny is nothing less than to return to God in Heaven!