Volunteer Missionary Movement (VMM-USA) | home
"If I, the Lord and Master, have washed your feet, you should wash each
other's feet. I have given you an example so that you may copy what I have
done to you." Jn 13:14-15
The spirit and calling of the VMM missionary is, first and foremost one of
love and service in and to the world. As lay people we give a special
witness to the reality that all the People of God are called to involvement
in Christ's mission. All who hear God's Word are called to respond. Bishops,
builders and nurses alike must work together, equally, towards the coming of
the Realm of God. Mission is given to us all.
Spirit and Lifestyle
My oldest great-niece, Kim, sent me an e-mail from her personal e-mail
address to thank me for remembering her 14th birthday on February 29. I
think it gave me the feeling that many grandparents have today as their
grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow up: whole different generation;
something gained and something lost.
My 13 great-nieces & nephews have been baptized but do not attend church.
The other great-niece who celebrates a birthday on February 29 turned six.
Before she moved away, she loved going to church with her grandmother.
We don't have far to go to find our mission work as lay persons. I'm not
suggesting we should preach or nag at the kids and their parents. More
effective is to "fast" and "feast" as suggested in this Lenten Reflection:
Fast from emphasis on differences; feast on the unity of all life.
Fast from words that pollute; feast on phrases that purity.
Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude.
Fast from anger; feast on patience.
Fast from worry; feast on trust.
Fast from complaining; feast on appreciation.
Fast from unrelenting pressures; feast on unceasing prayer.
Fast from hostility; feast on non-violence.
Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness.
Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others.
Fast from personal anxiety; feast on eternal truth.
Fast from discouragement; feast on hope.
Fast from suspicion; feast on truth.
Fast from idle gossip; feast on purposeful silence.
Gentle God, during this season of fasting and feasting, gift us with your
presence, so we can be gift to others in carrying out your work.
Author Unknown
Warning: Just choose one!
Cecily
