Gratitude generosity and graciousness

The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary today are full of praise for the actions which reveal the glory and compassion of God. Paul expresses the “attitude of gratitude” for the relationship he has experienced with the people of Philippi. He expresses thanksgiving and confidence that their love will be evidence of the righteousness of the Way they are following to intimacy with the Divine. The psalmist observes how the glory of the Divine is revealed in the generosity and graciousness to the people. The response is to praise God. Luke continues to present Jesus taking action to be the compassion of God only to have the authorities criticize him for going beyond what is permitted by the Law. Jesus hints that “going beyond the Law” is not so uncommon among his critics. The issue that traps many humans in the relationship with the Divine is control. We have a very strong desire to maintain it. There is an obstacle to our growth.