by Joan DeMerchant

The closing of the church year is an opportunity for deep reflection. We hear advice again today about paying attention and planning for what will inevitably come in each of our lives. Our readings speak of wisdom, courage and using the strengths and gifts given. As Thanksgiving and the onslaught of the coming holiday season collide, this may be a good time to take a breath, step back, and think about what really matters.

by Mary M. McGlone

Highlights

1 – Suppose we’ve been sitting around talking about how things are going in the world. As winter looms, we’re discussing the signs that make us think our world may not last too much longer. We know the litany: global warming, nuclear proliferation, lack of response to the plight of refugees, masses of people affected by famine, terrorism. Like the early Christians, we feel that Jesus has gone on too long a journey. Some people think he’s coming back soon, others say it’s too late.”

2 – If we want to imagine the daily life of a joyful servant, we can look to our reading from the Book of Proverbs. The person our translation calls a “worthy wife” is literally described as a “woman of strength” or valiant woman. She is the ideal Israelite.