April 20

Today’s Readings: ACTS 4:23-31 PS 2:1-9 JN 3:1-8

When I ask what your favorite aspect of Catholicism is, I’d expect the usual: founded by Jesus Christ, the sacraments, devotion to Mary and the saints, it focuses on Jesus rather than the music and/or the orator.

All of those are great reasons to love the Faith. Every single one of them.

Here is another: we understand that our relationship with God is not only an individual relationship – it is a familial relationship. It matters that we pray together. It matters that we gather together.

Is it a good thing that we are live streaming the Mass? Absolutely. But if and when we are able, it should not and cannot adequately replace being at the table. Just ask any homebound parishioner. Over the years, I’ve talked to several and even though they receive the Eucharist, they still miss their family.

We should hate this because we miss the Eucharist. But we should also hate this because we miss one another.

David is the Director of Faith Formation at Our Lady of Joy. If you have comments or questions, send your emails to dlins@oloj.org.

As we have lost our weekly collection income, we can only maintain our current staff for a limited time without your help. Please spread the word and sign up for auto-pay or make whatever donation you can at www.ezekielgiving.com/App/Giving/oloj.