Reflection by Rev. Leonard N. Peterson

By definition, human interest stories that come our way through books or other sources are a welcome reprieve from the negative types that dominate the news these days. Otherwise, we would conclude that nothing good ever happens on our home planet. Smiles would be rare and laughter never heard.

In today’s Gospel section, Our Lord makes clear where He should rank in our list of loves, we agree. But note that truly loving Him involves embracing His cross. He expounds on the simple but decisive ways we can attain the reward of heaven through service to others; such service is always of human interest.

So, who are the “little ones” in our world that deserve “even a cup of cold water?” In the context of this gospel, the “little ones” Our Lord refers to starts with the Apostles. Ordinary men called to be extraordinary.

So, they must rely on the hospitality of others. Jesus insists that when we serve others we are actually serving Him.

Another deserving group is that of children. Jesus often uses them as examples in His teaching on faith. They are literally “little ones.” Children are innocent and trusting. So, they are apt pupils for learning the ways of right living in Christ. How awful when we adults let them down by our bad example. What delight there is in knowing of all the parents, teachers and other adults in the world who dedicate themselves to giving children good example.

As is so, often the case, the gospel acts as a mirror held up to our consciences for inspection. Could a human interest story or two be written about us? Does Sunday Mass have a lasting effect on our behavior? Good question to ask and answer on a Spring Sunday or anytime.

Of course, it is good not to look for praise to come when you are doing your good deeds. Once when George Bush the elder was president, he was doing his public relations thing by visiting a nursing home He came upon a wizened old man hobbling down the corridor. President Bush took the man by the hand and asked, “Sir, do you know who I am?” The man replied, “No, but if you ask one of the nurses, she’ll tell you.”

God love you and give you His peace.

Rev. Peterson’s Reading & Gospel Summary

Reading I: 2 Kings 4: 8-11, 14-16a

The woman provides Elisha with many meals and even a guest room to use. The prophet tells her that as a reward God will grant her a make heir.

Reading II: Romans 6: 3-4, 8-11

Paul alludes to Baptism, which joins us to Christ crucified and risen. We must in response live as dead to sin and alive to God in Christ.

The Gospel: Matthew 10: 37-42

The cross had always been a symbol of shame and rejection. But after Christ’s death on one, it came to symbolize the glory of Christian martyrdom. Response in service to the needy is a Source of reward for us.