The Look of Love5/27/2024 Monday of the 8th Week in OT/ Memorial Day
Memorial Day evokes many feelings in us, doesn't it? We remember deceased loved ones and visit their graves. We remember those who died serving our country. We remember those "lazy, hazy, crazy days of summers past, and note the beginning of another season. Memorial Day evokes so many memories! The photo above captures a moment in time when my friend JA was teaching his grandnephew, Tommy Merlo to play the guitar. Notice Tommy's eyes as he looks at his great-uncle with wonder and openness.. It was that look that I remembered as I prayed with this morning's Gospel. “Jesus looking at him, loved him….” These words from today’s Gospel have always been dear to me. There is something about the “look of love” that speaks volumes about the way Jesus sees us. Yes, the young man will be disappointed by his inability to give up all his possessions, but I imagine he will always remember Jesus’ look of love. My poem “Dash—it all” tries to convey the range of emotions that this young man feels. Dash -- it all! Mad dash done, Rash race run, Rush to face the one who holds the keys for kingdom’s kind. Flung at his feet, face flushed,. kneeling, not knowing what Word awaits, he prays and prudence is given. “Follow love’s commands.” He pleads for more. Love’s gaze holds him, Eye-catching, Amor’s code, “ Sell and seal the deal and follow me.” A dash of recognition, connecting the dots, face falling, felling hopes dashing dreams. He prefers possessions, More to own than to be won for another who proffers everything and nothing. “Dash it all!” Double-edged Word heard within bone and marrow No narrow path for him. Sad, dashed, done, for now-- A slow and somber turn away Yet Amor’s gaze, Holds him, fast Awaiting his return.
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Leave a Reply.AuthorAs an ordained Catholic priest for 45 years and a member of the Jesuits for 57 years, I've had a great deal of "spiritual" experience! This is a place where I can continue to share my thoughts about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit and what it means to live the "mystery of God." Categories |
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