Monday 26th February 2018
This is the Second Week of Lent. The Gospel today is Luke Chapter 6 Verses 36-68 with its theme, Grant pardon and you will be pardoned. Last month, a local priest had had a very busy Sunday morning. He celebrated two Masses and baptised five children. He spoke to lots of parishioners, signed Mass cards, helped to tidy-up the church after the Masses and so on. He warmed up a bowl of soup and looked forward to having a quiet afternoon. It was not to be. A phone call summoned him to drive through the snow to the hospital to see, Mary, an elderly patient.
On the way, he grumbled a little to the Lord wondering why he had spoiled his afternoon. The lady’s daughter and her husband were at the bedside as the priest anointed the patient and made a Spiritual Communion since Mary was not able to consume the Sacred Host. As the priest blessed her, the old lady turned an looked at the priest. The daughter delightedly remarked that it was the first sign of recognition she had shown in days. But the priest said, “I think she is going. I’m going to pray the commendation of the dying.” As he said the Words, “Go forth Christian soul” she gave a little gasp and slipped away from this life.
The daughter was amazed. She had never seen anyone die before. But she was calm and content.
Her mother had just died but she was calm and content. Why do you think that was so? Do you think the priest grumbled a little to the Lord on his way home? If not, why not?
Pray: Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in Peace. Amen.
Let us ask Mary our Mother to help us know the forgiveness and love of God. Hail Mary….
