The Original Joseph

Today's Readings

The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; by the Lord has this been done, and it is wonderful in our eyes? - Matthew 21:42

This morning, our Pastor reminded the parish school children at their weekly Friday Mass that there was an interesting link between today's readings, and this, the first day of retirement for Benedict XVI, Pontiff Emeritus... One word: Joseph!

When Benedict (Joseph Ratzinger) went to Mass this morning, he heard the beginning of the story of the original Joseph, as told in the Book of Genesis.  This was the story of a youngest brother sold into slavery by his jealous older brothers for 20 pieces of silver.  Why?  Because Joseph was Daddy's favorite, and the brothers just couldn't stand it! (Read the Whole Story Beginning in Genesis Chapter 37)

If you know the rest of the story, then you know that Joseph went on to lead Egypt, and bring them out of the hard times of famine.  Not only was he loved by his father, Israel (Jacob), but he was also eventually adored by all the people as well.  Rejected by his brothers, and sold for a few silver coins, he became the cornerstone of entire people.  

Hmmm... this sounds familiar.  Take a look at ahead in the Gospel of Matthew at the conspiracy against Jesus.  Can you say foreshadowing?

Stayin' Alive!

My faith has taught me that we are called to be "living stones" (1 Peter), and Bob Dylan added that when we live, we can do so as a "rolling stone", which some ancient wise guy said "would gather no moss" if that stone kept rolling.

This morning, the air's gentle breeze reminds me that we are in constant motion. Things never actually stop, do they? I know there's a scientist that could probably argue with me, but generally, the constant movement of life is the key factor of what keeps everything alive!

When Peter called on his church to live as a "living stone", he must have wanted to stress the firmness that Christ called on him to build that church on a rock, yet spread it's message to "all nations", keeping things moving so as to keep it alive... Which we all know the Bee Gees would agree... "O, O, O, O... Stayin' alive. Stayin' alive!"

Trust!

Come to him, a living stone, rejected by human beings but chosen and precious in the sight of God, and, like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2: 4-5)

Today I invite you to consider that you are not only a part of the Body of Christ, but you are also a part of the firm foundation we call “Church”. The Apostle Peter, (“Petra” or “Rock”), challenges us to be LIVING stones, so that each of us combines ourselves and our efforts to become the “spiritual house” of God here on Earth. We are a priestly people, called to be a safe haven for those who need us! So trust me, and give it a shot. Be the LIFE and the STRENGTH people need you to be, because there are folks out there who need someone to TRUST and someone to LOVE!

Watching the American Idol Finale last night, I was blown away by the touching performance of Janet Jackson’s song “Nothing” (American Idol). It was released back in March, and has flown under my radar, so I may be behind the “cool curve” here. I like songs because of their sound, and the performance, and their witness of simple and basic Truths. The song seems to be about asking a person with problems to trust the person who wants to help fix the problem.

“We’ve got to fix this, fix this right this minute. Only pure love can calm the noise, ‘cus baby when we give pure love, pure love will never come back to us void. Because nothing should come between us; trust in me. Trust in me. We should cherish every moment like it’s the last; trust in me. Trust in me.” (“Nothing” by Janet Jackson)

This is exactly how the Apostle Peter wants Church to be... Trust in God, and invite others to Trust in Him by trusting you! Be a living stone my friends!