Psalm 62: “In you alone is my soul at rest. My help comes from you.”

“Anyone who is not against us is with us” (Mark 9:40). That's quite different from saying that whoever is not with us is against us. The words of Jesus tell us to accept all those who do good, who work to better the world, who serve others, who cooperate in combating greed and exploitation, hatred and prejudice. The important thing in the long run is not whether good action is labeled Catholic, Christian or Buddhist, but whether, like the deeds of Jesus, it does good for poor, suffering humans.

Although the teaching and example of Jesus are powerful in motivating people to the service of others, it remains true that there are many who, without accepting that teaching, put to shame those of us who claim it. God's grace works in many places and under many names. Jesus told those disciples shocked at a man not of their company who was expelling demons in his name: “Do not try to stop him” (Mark 9:39).

We should rejoice in the good and cooperate with those who do it. It might encourage us or challenge us to continue the good we do or to more generosity. If all the good things being done for the poor and suffering around us are being done by others, why or how are we failing? What we do and celebrate at our worship together, our solidarity with Christ and each other, that is meant to show itself beyond the church doors.

Psalm 27: “I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness / in the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord; be strong; / be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord!”

Reply to Fr. Don at: DTalafous@csbsju.edu

Watch Daily Mass online at: SaintJohnsAbbey.org/live

Send your prayer requests to the monks