Life is witnessed

The texts today from the Roman Catholic Lectionary show the power of the light of believers to those outside the camp. The letter of Timothy calls upon followers of the Way to pray for those in authority. The leaders of the society receive their authority from God. The prayer of believers for the mediation of God in the action of leaders was a concept familiar to Greek thinkers, according to Friar Jude Winkler. The Christian who prays for those who persecute him and who proclaims by his life a relationship with Jesus, the mediator who is fully human and fully Divine, introduces the outsider to depth of life and light. The psalmist proclaims the strength of God in which he finds help and joy. This faith is made visible to all in praise and thanksgiving. The Centurion in the account from the Gospel of Luke is described to Jesus by the Jewish leaders as a benefactor to their community. The attraction to the Presence of God in the community has moved this pagan of the occupation army to help build the synagogue. Jesus is approached indirectly by this man of authority who stands for us today in our Eucharistic liturgy as we become the unworthy one who only needs the Word of Jesus for healing. The mission to teach all about Jesus is more about people being attracted to Life than our lectures in theological concepts.