Dear Friends,
This weekend's Old Testament reading from Ezekiel (we are getting a good dose of him this month!) strikes a tone much like that of the gentle , even good-humored, tone of a father to his children. I imagine most of us in our childhood have uttered at some point or another have exclaimed the ever popular complaint "that's not fair!" -probably to similar results in our parents too!
But our heavenly Father isn't looking to exact a fair judgment upon us. Or maybe better put, through Jesus He has tipped the scales of justice in our favor so that we get what is fair, despite are having earned such a less desirable outcome!
Nowhere is this more evident than in the sacrament of confession. The modern-day equivalent to the example of Jesus offers in today's Gospel, the sacrament of Reconciliation is an invitation from God, an opportunity to turn from the sin we have embraced in the past to the good he still patiently calls us too. The opening prayer to confession sets the tone: "May the Lord who enlightens every heart help you to know your sins and trust His mercy". The prayer of absolution fulfills what is offered, reminding us of one of the Lord's favorite titles: "God the father of mercies..."
Confession has the advantage of never being out of season - a fresh start is waiting for each of us: "Bless me father for I have sinned..". If there is sin on our soul -especially if it's been a long time since our last confession - may we hasten to receive the gift of God's forgiveness.
Your brother in Christ,
Father Maurer
P.S. Confession is offered nearly daily - 7AM Mon, Wed, Fri, 8AM Thurs and three times on Saturday 8AM and 3PM at Holy Rosary, 4:30PM at St. Joseph.
P.P.S. My family and I are very grateful for all of your support and prayers this week while we celebrated the funeral rites of my grandfather Kenneth. It was a blessed time, made all the more so for the many condolences and assurances of prayers you've offered. Thank you.
Peace,
Father Maurer