Reflections for today. From Fr Norris

The preparatory prayer is to be the same before any meditation.

“I pray that I may have the grace of God our Lord that all my intentions, actions and operations may be directed purely to the service and praise of His Divine Majesty. Amen”

Thoughts:

“If a man is genuinely superior to his fellows, the first thing that he believes is equality of men.”

“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciples."

My reflections on Fr Norris' thoughts: Not the easiest of ways to live life but it defines the missionary lifestyle , the true meaning of authority or superiority is the virtue of equality. Jesus knows humility and has authority over everything given to him by his Father. We must recognize that by giving up the worldly relationships we inherit a far bigger family, that of the whole human race itself, what really can be more equal?

‘Empty hands’

How long have you been in Japan? A young friend asked Father Jim Norris. Twenty five years, the Columban missionary from Rotorua replied. What have you to show for it? It was a question the missionary had often asked himself, looking back over the years of seemingly barren toil. The Japanese were still not falling over themselves to get into the Church. But today, at least, they could see it at work. Was that enough for 25 years? It was, surely little enough. ‘If you take the number of people Baptized the test,’ Father Norris said, I’m afraid I’ve been a miserable failure. Just as well that mission work is not judged by immediate results. Just as well that you can go outside the Church to preach the Gospel. ‘Let me explain, he went on. In 25 years, you meet thousands of people, make many contacts, meaningless as that word often is- make friends. You stand for something you can be seen to believe in, by word in action. People may turn a deaf ear to your message, but you are under strict scrutiny at all times. What will they have to show for it- those Parishes I have served? ‘That’ Father Norris concluded, is the vital question. The missionary must be content with empty hands.’  

End.

St Joesphs feast day. Today the daily mass reading in Mat 1: 16-24
" Jacob the father of joesph the husband of Mary of whom Jesus was born who is called Mesiah". 

Reflection -  the family heritage of the Holy family has a great significance because they are humble and just ordinary in their ways. Not exalted or rich in standing, only known for the faith they have in the prophecies of the Scriptures. This is a lesson for us, all