THE WORD TO THE WISE [EARLY FOR TRAVEL]

[RB Williams, OP]

SUNDAY, JUNE 14, 2026  11TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

[Exodus 19:2-6a; Romans 5:6-11; Matthew 9:36 - 10:8]

     Christ, while we were still helpless, yet died at the appointed time for the ungodly.  Indeed, only with difficulty does one die for a just person, though perhaps for a good person one might even find courage to die.  But God proves his love for us in that Christ died for us.  [Romans]

     Some of the most important things in life and faith can become "domesticated" and so common that we fail to appreciate their true significance.  Many times I have heard someone ask, "How do I know God loves me?"  The best response I can give them is to point to a crucifix!"  In Catholic surroundings (and in some Protestant ones), the crucifix is ubiquitous - one in every room.  Classrooms in Catholic schools will have one on the wall.  Catholic hospitals will have them widely displayed.  It is important to note that I am not just speaking of a cross, but a crucifix with the Body of Christ on it.  

     Crucifixes can become somewhat "stylized" so that the suffering and death of Jesus are less prominent.  In Latin cultures, the opposite can be true, with emphasis on wounds and blood!  In these cases, the image becomes more important than the meaning - i.e. that Christ died for all of us, individually and collectively.  That is the proof of God's love for us whether we "feel" it or not.  AMEN