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Urban Impressions of the Stations of the Cross

Thursday, December 31, 2015

January 31 - The Seventh Day in the Octave of Easter

An Introduction

In today's Gospel, John the Baptist, introduces us to Jesus, the "Word."
He describes Jesus' in relation to his Father and to us. 

Tomorrow is the Rose Bowl, a time for festivities and camaraderie.
One team will win, and one will lose; but both worked hard to have this opportunity and are privileged to participate in it. The experience, not just the outcome, is one to savor. A common expression comes to mind: it's not if you win or lose- but how you play the game. Sportsmanship can be defined as winning or losing gracefully, and can transform adversaries into friends. Common ambitions form communities. There is something meaningful aside from winning.

Sometimes, a fan or a player will display a reference to another verse from the Gospel of John: Jn 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. "
God's love is apparent in today's reading too. " He came to what was his own,but his own people did not accept him." Jn:1:11

But that is not the end of the story; God gives us second chances, numerous chances. Jesus is with God, and is God Jn 1:1, and God is merciful. God wants everyone to win. In the very next verse, we hear "...to those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God, to those who believe in his name,.." Jn:1:12 Children admire parents and enjoy imitating them, because they wish to be like them.

As one year is ending and the next approaching, people often think of what they hope to accomplish. We might seek to transform aspects of ourselves by making resolutions. Resolutions embody our aspirations, and might be summed up in a logo. In Greek, "Word" is λόγος logos. Teams or businesses select a logo to represent their mission what is important to them, which represents their character.

What personal logo are you inspired to chose?

Pope Francis has dedicated this year to mercy- a time to show love to others through our actions. Demonstrating our concern for others might help them to do likewise - so that everyone wins.
Perhaps you might incorporate particular spiritual or corporal works of mercy into your resolutions. 

May your new year be a memorable one,

Reflection by Laura Ross

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