When I lived in Grand Forks, ND in the 1970’s, I was very active in my local Church. Because I was so active, I would often have meals with the priests and we would talk about our current projects.
Our pastor was a World War Two infantry veteran who became a priest after he was discharged. He was an intelligent and very human pastor. One thing that was unique at his rectory, which did not excite his housekeeper was this standing rule: Anyone, including Native Americans, traveling in the area who came to the door would share the meal being served. No one who came to the door was turned away. There was never an “Eat Here” sign on the rectory door but the grapevine knew that if you were traveling in ND that this rectory was was a safe and welcoming place.
Father would easily quote, Hebrews 13:2 Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels.
Fast forward to May 2019. My wife and I joined our new parish in Tulsa. The parish had a meet and greet reception for new parishioners. New and old parishioners shared food and stories. There was a group sitting in the parlor and a young couple with their 3 year old daughter and the associate pastor. The priest asked the couple how long they had been married. The mother quickly said to everyone, ” We are not married.” There was a short pause and the priest said. ” No problem! We can fix that.” He was caring and feeding his sheep. We all had a wonderful time.
This last Sunday, the feast of the Ascension, was the mass for a young priest at our church. He was ordained May 25th in Washington DC. In his first homily, he mentioned his observation on the priesthood as someone who has ” One eye on God and the other on man.” Afterwards hot dogs, hamburgers and dancing in the gym was a fun filled joyous celebration of his ordination.
Why are these readings important for us lay people? Aren’t these commands for bishops and priests? When Jesus said “Follow me,”did he mean me? I think He did.
“Do you love me?” If we help take care of the spiritual and temporal needs of the Body of Christ we are showing Jesus we love Him. The job is too big for one person but can only be done with all of us working toward the common goal of Feeding His Sheep. To put into practice the message of the Good Shepard today is we keep “one eye on God and the other on His people.”
God Bless
Bob Burford
