Two very different times

The Texts from Roman Catholic Lectionary today present sharp contrast between two human experiences in our relationship with the Divine. The Letter of James recalls the power for evil which is associated with how we use our tongue. We know the regret of "I wish I had not said that". Friar Jude Winkler reminds us of the effect of a word of praise or a word of condemnation on young people. That "memory trigger" is not far away from most adults too who can be transported back to the time of those terrible words. The Gospel of Mark is the episode where Peter, James and John are transported to the mountain top with Jesus. This very experience, as Friar Jude points out is given today to people on the spiritual journey. Like Peter, James and John we become aware of parts of the puzzle which were hidden to us. The impression we take away from these mountain top experiences is rich. Friar Jude steps through some of the richness presented to the disciples which enlightened them with links to the Law and the Prophets, the Presence in the cloud and many references to the Jewish tradition. The connection of Jesus to their lives and tradition was opened more clearly to them. The effect of making ourselves the authority and speaking our mind from ego and pride is known and referred to by James. The gift of the transcendent experience given by the Spirit reveals our humble understanding and opens us to listen and see the wonders in the people and creation around us. Praise God for marvelous course correction! Amen