Reset for Life

The Roman Catholic Lectionary today presents texts which encourage our reflection on the need to reset some of the habits and directions which we accumulate on our journey. The Book of Leviticus tells of the Jewish Law about the Jubilee year during which slaves were freed and land was returned to the original owners. The observance of this practice and other Laws set the Jewish people aside and become a sign for themselves and others of their place as a Chosen People of God. The execution of John the Baptist by Herod Antipas is related in the Gospel of Matthew as a consequence of saving face in response to a promise. Friar Jude Winkler reminds us of the need for caution in the promises we make as he expands upon the story of the “Herod’s” and their relationship with the Jews. Larry Gillick S.J. calls upon us to reflect on the ‘little kingdoms” in our lives which we are afraid to dislodge as we only hear our voice when we assess our behaviour. St Alphonsus Liguori, Doctor of the Church, was a tireless source of writing and challenge to reset our spiritual relationship with Jesus in the Church.