From the Deacon's Desk

Each day, I reflect upon a word or a phrase inspired by the readings of the day. I encourage you to do the same and perhaps incorporate that word or phrase into your daily prayer.

“…be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been built solidly on rock.” (Matthew 7:21-29)

BUILT SOLIDLY ON ROCK: This reading is special to me, as it was one of the readings chosen by my daughter and son-in-law, Laura and Joey, for their wedding – a wedding at which I was blessed to serve as both father of the bride and official witness to the marriage. They are coming up on their thirteenth wedding anniversary.

For part of my homily that day, I used the reading as a message to the guests at the wedding – to emphasize the importance of their role in the marriage:

Joey and Laura understand that they cannot do this alone. They are not naïve enough to believe that there will not be challenges along the way.

They chose a Gospel reading that speaks to these challenges. The reading mentions rain, floods, and wind that can threaten the stability of a home. They will experience ongoing challenges as they learn to communicate, to think and act as one, and to understand one another.

As much as they love each other, they will experience rain, floods, and wind. On occasion it may be Tropical Storm Joey, other times Hurricane Laura.

The solid foundation referred to in the reading will help their house, their marriage, stand up against these storms. Their faith is their rock and the base of their foundation. Their parents are the cornerstones. You, the family and friends, are the walls.

Laura and Joey made out their guest list carefully. They could have invited anyone. You were chosen to be here because they believe you will provide them with the ongoing support they will need to keep their house standing. Your support does not end today; it starts today.

It is a good reminder to all of us how important it is to support one another in our efforts as Christians. Our job is to love one another, to “will the good of the other.” Let’s help get each other to heaven!