PEACEFUL SERVICE

Wisdom 2:23-3:9; Ps 34 I will bless the Lord at all times; Luke 17:7-10

But they are in peace.

These are the words from our first reading in regards to those who have gone before us.  Notice the reading doesn't say that are at peace but rather they are in peace.

The simple little word "in" should have a drastic impact on what we think about in regards to the beloved deceased who have been called out of this world into the the merciful embrace of our Father's hands.

To be in peace is to be restored to that rightful place of belonging.

To be at someone's house is different than being in that house.

Being "in" denotes an intimacy not otherwise achieved.

Think about that this month as we remember the faithful departed.

The psalmist invites us "to bless the Lord at all times."

To bless the Lord.  We often seek God's blessing in our life.  Do we seek to bless God with the life that seeks his blessing.  This denotes an intentionality on our part.  We can not just go along to get along but rather we are attentive to our words and actions in regards to who we belong to and by whose benevolence we have life.

To bless the Lord moves us away from just letting life happen to being an active an intentional participant with one eye always on the gaze of our Father.

Lastly we are told in the gospel that we should live as unprofitable servants; we have done what we are obliged to do.

There are two characteristics of every disciple: willingly forgivers and willingly servers.

In fact, the greatest service is to forgive.

The task of serving should always make an easy transition form the greatest of task to the menial of task.  There is no distinction, just service.  Whether we are int he field or at table, service remains a part of our livelihood.

In the traditional japanese culture it is considered an insult to receive tips for serving.  Good service is considered a courtesy.  It is always rendered generously.  So it should be with the one who follows Christ.

The service is the reward in itself for in it we have blessed the Lord.