31 st SUNDAY YEAR C

28th October 2007  

D: Good morning. What of our attitude to people we dont get on with – our attitude towards people we may even despise.

B: Our word of life for today comes from Luke’s Gospel and the story of Zacceaus. You know the story, where Zaccheaus is waiting up a tree to get a glimpse of Jesus and Jesus says: “Zaccheaus come down, hurry because I must stay at your house today”.

D: Just imagine Zaccheaus and he nearly falling from the tree in surprise… called by Jesus he is …. called by NAME . So surprised in fact that he made a huge about turn in his life. A life about turn. He was a tax collector – despised by the people and now, called by kindness ,called by Jesus…he makes a fresh start.

B: Indeed, he was prepared to change – he was prepared to give half his property to the poor and those he cheated to pay them back four times as much. Because of the attitude of Jesus towards sinners in welcoming them and eating with them – he gives them the opportunity for repentance in an atmosphere of acceptance. This is why Zaccheaus comes down from the tree to face Jesus. This is why we will all come down from our lonely perches to face the one who loves us. Sure enough, the story continues to this day.

D: As winter darkness deepens this month of November ,we remember those who have died. Friday last was the feast of All Souls,the commemoration of all the faithfull departed. We mark the beginning of this month with a reflection called “Miss me but let me go”. In this reflection we especially remember in a special way those of you who still miss a loved one who has died:

When I come to the end of the road

And the sun has set for me

I want no rites in a gloom filled room,

Why cry, for a soul set free.

Miss me a little but not for long.

And not with your head bowed low,

Remember the love that we once shared

Miss me ……. but let me go.

For this is a journey we all must take

And each must go it alone,

It’s all a part of the Masters plan

A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick of heart

Go to the friends we know

And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds

Miss me …….. but let me go.

B: You’ve been listening to ‘Just a thought’ with Brenda Cribbin

D: and David Bracken. We can be contacted through the Limerick Diocesan Offices at Henry Street.

B: We look forward to your company again next week – in the meantime, take care.

B&S: BYEEE!!!!

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