The texts today from the RomanCatholic Lectionary include the episode from the Gospel of Luke where Jesus is
given attribution as One who commands unclean spirits and out they come. The
battle for truth and against evil is one of the characteristics of the life of SaintGregory the Great, pope and Doctor of the Church who lived in the second half
of the sixth century. It was a time of much turmoil, tragedy and distress in
Rome from attacks from natural and political enemies. The tone of the writing
of this saint suggests to some biographers a sense that the end times were imminent.
Paul addresses the Thessalonians to assure them that the second coming of
Jesus, and the end times, would not catch them unaware as they already had
begun to live as Jesus would direct them. The theme of waiting for the Lord
rings in the words of the psalmist today too. It is the action of faith which
brings life to believers in situations where the situation in our environment
is slipping into darkness and despair. The history of Saint Gregory and the
practice of Pope Francis recommend seeking a clear vision of the direction of
truth and love by living simply. The monastic retreat time of Gregory, even
when surrounded by the opulence of Constantinople or the desolation of post
empire Rome under threat of capture by Germanic tribes brought clarity and
peace and the ability to experience the dispatch of the unclean spirits
tempting us to pride, power and political privilege through faith in Jesus as
He carries us along in His journey and ours to our Jerusalem.
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