“Scratchpad Reflections” are daily meditations on the scripture readings for the date noted and are written by Dominican Brother Daniel Thomas to help readers gain a deeper understanding of the daily liturgies and Masses of celebration. Here is the reflection for:

June 1, 2016 – Wednesday in the 9^th Week of the Church Year

Saint for the day: Justin (died: 165)

Scripture Readings for today’s Liturgy:

2 Timothy 1:1-3, 6-12     –     Psalm 123     –     Mark 12:18-27

“I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” (St. Paul: 1 Corinthians 2:2)

 The above quote seems to be connected to today’s Liturgy – not only in the scripture passages appointed but also with today’s “saint” Justin, Martyr. Here’s a man in the very early days of the Church who was drawn to the philosophies of his time, yet was able to see that it had its truth in the person of Jesus Christ. He was like St. Paul in that he was able to “stir into flame the gift of God” that had been given to him through the imposition of hands. There’s a lesson here for all of us to grasp: we must seek the truth as found in the person of Jesus Christ, and allow that to be the center of our lives. The other night I was watching one of those “wilderness, survival programs” and couldn’t help but feeling sorry for these two people who struggled mightily trying get a fire started. I’m sure the fact that it was raining and the wind was blowing made it all that much harder. They just didn’t seem to be able to fan the smallest spark into a viable flame and I couldn’t help but see the similarities in our Christian efforts to follow Christ more completely. Even though I might have an advantage since I am a “cradle Catholic” I still have to put some effort into keeping that flame of faith going which gives light and purpose to my Christian Journey. Here at St. Dominic’s we had record numbers of people welcomed into the Church at the Easter Vigil. The same was true for our First Communion Class as well as those who were confirmed last week. Still, in all these circumstances

We can’t just think that the ceremony alone will keep us going. That’s why I say prayers like The Morning Offering: “O, Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer thee all my prayers, works, joys and sorrows of this day for all the intentions of Your Sacred Heart, in union with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world and especially for the intentions of our Holy Father, Pope Francis.” It’s our prayer life that keeps the spark of the life of faith alive and going and giving us the ability to continue our walk of faith. All I want to know is Jesus Christ and the gift of life that His life gives to me. Amen!