22nd January, 2006

Third Sunday - Year B

S: Good morning - today we’re on about the call of Jesus and how it is a call to generosity and not to be too put out when you have to get off your armchair and help someone out.

B: Our word of life for today comes from Mark’s Gospel; “At once they left their nets and followed him”. Jesus is calling the disciples to follow him and they are prepared to leave behind what they’ve been used to. They showed flexibility and courage - qualities that we all need to have and show.

S: Brenda, I don’t know how many times I’ve said it but I often feel that my life as a Priest is a ministry of interruptions - you’re there and trying to get something done and the phone rings, you’ve just settled down to watch a late night film and the doorbell rings but I guess its the interruptions from the familiar that turn out to be most important.

B: I know what you mean, I hate to be interrupted in the middle of watching a programme I like - and sometimes the phone seems to ring at a crucial moment - but then I guess the person at the other end of the line has more to do with reality than a T.V. programme. Our reflection this morning reminds us that the call of God happens through everyday life

S: Sometimes there are signs, and Faith grows. Other times no signs.

Signs of Faith come simply:

The helping hand when times are rough

The beauty of a flower which lifts the spirit,

The moment of peace in prayer

The closeness of God in ritual, the faith shared in Community.

We can be amazed sometimes at the ways we find faith strengthened.

Memories of family faith, hymns sung that remind us of God

And images filling the mind, like our bodies being surrounded by light.

Jesus seems to expect that faith will be always here, Questioning yet hopeful,

That there will be times when only faith guides us,

And creates a trust that is strong but seems distant.

Always caring – our God, even when it seems he sleeps.

Always the call – that we do not sleep through others’ tough moments.

And the openness to welcome and look for faith,

Blowing like the wind, gently or loudly,

Always a gift gratefully awaited and received.

B: Before we go this morning we would like to let you know about a great musical that is being staged in the University Concert Hall next Wednesday and Thursday at 8pm. The musical is Joseph and his amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, presented by students and staff from Castletroy College. It’s based on the bible story of Joseph, his family and the Pharaoh in Egypt. A good nights entertainment and booking can be made through the University Concert Hall.

S: You’ve been listening to “Just a thought” with Seamus Madigan...

B: and Brenda Cribbin. We can be contacted through the Limerick Diocesan Offices at 66 O’ Connell Street or by e-mailing smadigan@limerickdiocese.org. If you would like your own copy of this reflection you can download it by clicking on limerickdiocese.org

S: We look forward to your company again next week, so take care…..

S& B: Byee……….

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