January 15, 2023
Today we return to Ordinary Time as we celebrate the 2nd Sunday of Ordinary Time. We begin our annual course in Discipleship 101 as we journey with Jesus through the year and relearn the importance and demands of following Him. Our first reading from Isaiah speaks of God’s servant who will be a light to the nations that God’s salvation may reach to the ends of the earth. We recall Jesus saying, “I am the Light of the world.” In our Gospel this weekend St. John takes us to Jesus’ baptism where John the Baptist proclaims, “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.” This scene is another ‘epiphany’ or manifestation of Jesus’ identity. He is the Light of the world, and God’s Son, whose death will bring salvation to all people; to the ends of the earth. We begin Ordinary Time seeing Jesus as our Lord and Savior and being invited to journey with Him. May our response to His invitation be the worlds we hear in today’s Responsorial Psalm, “Here am I lord; I come to do Your will.”
Thank you for all the wonderful help in taking down our Christmas decorations last Sunday. I appreciate all the hands that gave time and talent in this endeavor. It was a short Christmas season, but St. Luke’s was truly a place fit for the King. Thanks one and all.
As we enter 2023, many may be wondering if there is any news on All Things New and what is the latest piece of the plan. First, if any parishioners took the time to send their feedback after the listening sessions, thank you. Your feedback and thoughts are being evaluated. Pastors and their ATN Leadership teams will be receiving a report of the listening sessions and parishioner comments in mid-January. After a meeting to digest the report, we will be publishing the results in an upcoming bulletin. Stay tuned. Let’s all remain steadfast in faith, and fervent in hope.
Finally today, I am happy to share with you the good news that I have received a good report from the surgeon this past Monday. He told me that all tests on the lymph nodes were negative and I am clear. Thanks once again for all the prayers. I believe in the power of prayer when we join in praying for one another. I am still to take it easy for a couple more weeks and to not try to overdo things. Amen.
God Bless! Have a great week!
Please continue praying 3 Hail Marys.
Fr. Pete