Thanks be to God for his indescrible gift.
2 Corinthians 9:15

Recently the documentary film "An Inconvenient Truth" appeared in local theaters. This film teaches us about the worldwide effects of global warming and suggests things all of us can do to reduce the extent of this phenomena. The title of the film was wisely chosen as this phenomenon is indeed an inconvenient intrusion on our lifestyle. Action on our part involves real changes in our lives.

The message of Jesus' ministry was also an inconvenient truth. It was so inconvenient for the scribes and Pharisees that they decided rather than make changes in their lives, they would get Jesus out of their lives by killing him. Jesus' instructions for the rich ruler were also inconvenient. When the ruler said he had obeyed all the commandments since he was a boy, Jesus replied: "You still lack one thing, sell everything that you have and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come and follow me." When the ruler heard this, he was sad because he was very rich. (Luke 18:18). Jesus' message was too inconvenient for him.

The impact of Jesus message is still the same today. People refrain from joining a church because the "dues" are too high and the commitment too great, i.e. it's just too inconvenient. Even within the church, many times we decide that what Jesus asks of us is too inconvenient. However, when we realize all the gifts God gives us these "inconveniences" are reduced to mere trivialities.

Dear Father in Heaven, sometimes we also think "we have done all these things". Give us the strength to take up our cross and follow you with all our hearts, and minds. In Jesus name we pray. Amen

Contributed by David O.
Sunday January 21, 2007
Liturgical Year C Week 8