Just Some Thoughts from Fr. Larry
Fireworks, cookouts, family gatherings,
vacations beginning July 4th, Independence Day the heart of the
summer is here.
Summer has a somewhat
narrow window for us here in New England. We must cram so much warm
weather fun into such a limited span of time. At the time of the
year when we could relax a bit, we have a tendency to stay busy,
albeit a little more enjoyable type of busyness.
The summer season actually begins with
two major national holidays, Memorial Day, remembering the
sacrifices of so many for the cause of freedom, and Independence
Day, remembering the birth of our nation and its promise of freedom.
It is good to remember how blessed we are to be part of a nation
where we are indeed free to be all that God has created us to be.
Because summertime enables us and entices
us to be more mobile than at other times of the year, it is all too
easy to cast aside time to pray and time to worship. Without
realizing it, it is possible to forget to invite God to be part of
our summer outings and celebrations. Yet, God remains with us, loves
us, and watches over us in every season and place.
As we watch those exciting fireworks
displays, perhaps we might also give thought to the light and the
fire of the glory of God. As we help ourselves to those great
burgers and wonderful salads, we might remember that ultimately we
are invited to share in a heavenly banquet at the table of the Lord.
As we enjoy the times we share with family and friends, it might
remind us that we are part of the wider family of God's children. As
we move about from place to place enjoying the beauty of God's gifts
of creation and the company of so many people around us, it is
important to take the time to gather with God's people at mass to
enjoy his greatest gift, the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ in the
Eucharist.
Fireworks, cookouts, family
gatherings, vacations beginning July 4th, Independence Day the heart
of the summer is definitely here. Please don't forget to invite God
to be part of it all.
Peace, Fr.
Larry