Gospel – Luke 13:22-30

Jesus passed through towns and villages,
teaching as he went and making his way to Jerusalem.
Someone asked him,
“Lord, will only a few people be saved?”
He answered them,
“Strive to enter through the narrow gate,
for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter
but will not be strong enough.
After the master of the house has arisen and locked the door,
then will you stand outside knocking and saying,
‘Lord, open the door for us.’
He will say to you in reply,
‘I do not know where you are from.
And you will say,
‘We ate and drank in your company and you taught in our streets.’
Then he will say to you,
‘I do not know where you are from.
Depart from me, all you evildoers!’
And there will be wailing and grinding of teeth
when you see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob
and all the prophets in the kingdom of God
and you yourselves cast out.
And people will come from the east and the west
and from the north and the south
and will recline at table in the kingdom of God.
For behold, some are last who will be first,
and some are first who will be last.”

Reflection on the Gospel

Let us remember that we are in the holy presence of God.

Roll up your sleeves and get to work.  As I reflect upon this gospel and think about the boys we work with at Ocean Tides in the tradition of John Baptist de La Salle their connection would be with the servants.  Meaningful moments often just happen.  Yes we create an atmosphere of safety, trust, and respect.  Yes we prepare for situations which might occur.  But powerful moments do not always follow a schedule or work around a professional timetable.  Even those who schedule discussions must always be prepared for an unannounced conversation.  Many times it is when you are helping a student set tables in the dining room, arranging desks, or putting away lab supplies when meaningful moments occur.  I believe it is our willingness to stand side by side with our students and do what needs to be done which opens the door or lights the lamp for meaningful interactions.  These interactions will set the stage for a future visit when we can enjoy a story of success.

Mr. Christopher Shea
Ocean Tides – Narragansett, RI

Saint John Baptist de La Salle – Pray for us.
Live, Jesus, in our hearts – Forever.