Choices

We can choose-

Yes...

Doing:

Transforming...
Becoming...

Gathering...

Participating...
Abundance...

Alternative...

Community...

Involved...

Journeying...
Struggling...

Meaning...
Pilgrimaging...

Loving...
Creating...

Living...

We can choose-

NoDoneSetChangedFinalAloneFixedArrivedCompletedOverCountedOffStillEndStopHateDead

Jesus once called Lazarus

He beckons to us

The same
Come forth
Choose Life...

Being...

Now...

Transformation

Eucharist is a wondrous celebration of transformation

Beginning with works of human hands...

Calling forth the infusion of Jesus...

Creating the Kingdom of God...

A kernel of wheat

Yields abundant grains

Gathered

Crushed

Into one

Transformed to bread.

A pruned vine

Yields abundant grapes

Gathered

Crushed

Into one

Transformed to wine.

During Seder
Jesus embraces bread and wine
Continues their transformation
Naming this nourishment
His Body and Blood
One.

Believers gather
Offer bread and wine
Again made sacred
Shared transformation
Eucharist
Enabling His presence
Nourished
Becoming
One.

Awesome!

Tired Soles

Dear Father Tom Rosica:

As you know - on Saturday Peggy and I did a fund raising walk for the Compass - an Ecumenical Food Bank/Community Center in our area. The distance is a bit over 26k - around 15 miles. Some of the walkers were able to do it in under 6 hours. It took us a little over 7.

Our walking group started off with six - but soon drifted into pairs. Through the grace of pilgrimage, a young adult - Paul - became my companion. He is in his last year of High School - anticipating University. I have known Paul since he was born - but not really known him till this walk. He and I photographed as we went - visiting - sharing stories and possibilities and visions.

At almost 6 hours - as we approached the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) grounds - my hip joints were growing quite painful. I feared - if the pain continued to increase - I couldn't complete the last bit. I told Paul of my fear - of my potential failure. He listened. He did not say the dreaded, almost manipulative words: "Keep going! You can make it!". He respected my pain - and all that had been accomplished. He stayed by my side - smiled warmly. Was a presence of Jesus for me.

Soon Peggy dropped back to join with us. When we reached Ontario Place we found others of our group - supported with nourishment by Brian - one of our 'Walk' organizers. Peggy indicated my stress and Brian offered to drive me in. We rested with them for about five minutes. When we restarted my discomfort did not become more intense - it remained the same. I knew I could handle it - for another hour. I committed to finish. Peggy also was aching - and committed. The others went ahead. Paul remained with us.

As we stepped out Peggy took my hand - in mutual strength, comfort and solidarity. Paul steadfast by our sides. We soon passed the Inukshuk - the ancient guide for travellers - recalling 2002 and the inspiration of John Paul II in creating World Youth Day. More spiritual strength flowed. (Continued thanks to you Tom - this sculpture is animated in this wondrous space through the gift of your vision and efforts.)

We three were last-in by 10 minutes - and as companions on the journey received more than the finish!!!

When Peggy and I got home - a hot bath, some ibuprofen and dinner at a local restaurant helped the 'ks' drift into memory...

Paul was at Mass this morning. He came over - smiling warmly. I again said thank you......I could see in his eyes - he already knew...

...and thank you Father Tom - for all you do...