On the "sixth day, the day before the Sabbath," writes Sr. Magda Bennásar, "we are invited to 'ascend' the mountain with fellow community members, mirroring Jesus' journey with his disciples."
Scripture for Life: Jesus insists that God is reigning in the universe. He promises that we can get caught up in God's reigning if only we are open to do so.
Having grateful eyes, writes Sr. Nodelyn Abayan, "is about appreciating the beauty in the ordinary, recognizing value in my every experience, and acknowledging the kindness and effort of others."
This day traditionally marks the beginning of the monsoon season. Just as John the Baptist ritually cleansed the faithful of their sins in the Jordan River, the belief continues today.
Scripture for Life: Today's Liturgy of the Word is a not-so-subtle call to live as a new creation. Instead of cowering in the storm, we can be people of the Resurrection — and discover how whirlwinds can blow us into deeper faith.
Be kind to each other. Sounds simple, but it might be a good way to enter into these couple of months before things get intense, in order to prepare to engage the election from our most authentic selves.
My travels over much of the past 30 years have revolved around visits to Benedictine monasteries. Some might believe that an itinerary involving stays at monasteries would get boring. I can attest that such is not the case.