Holy Spirit of Jesus help me to move ahead from grief to find strength in the joy of the Lord …

Nehemiah 8:1-12

 
On this 30th of September, Canadians are pausing to honor the thousands of first peoples who have died as a result of oppressive policies and to contemplate the 93 recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report. Like the Israelites who were brought face to face with their former exile and sinfulness of their nation, many of us when faced with the past atrocities of our country have become not only collectively ashamed but also grief stricken. How could our “good” government and church leaders be party to such actions against humanity, particularly all the first peoples of our land-not only in the past but presently? Let us hear Ezra’s prophetic word: “This day is holy to our Lord; do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” The joy of the Lord-that is the dancing, creative and merciful Grace that is able to enlighten all darkness is always and everywhere available to anyone who will listen to the word of God. The Word of God is constantly speaking life and love into time and space growing beauty and liveliness into every being. Will I continue to be grieved or will I draw on the creating and healing joy of the Lord? Holy Spirit of Jesus help me to move ahead from grief to find strength in the joy of the Lord…
 
The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul...The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart.   (Psalm 19 :1-2)
 
“Arm yourself with prayer rather than a sword. Wear humility rather than fine clothes.”
Saint Dominic
 
Soli ad gloriam
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