Weekly Meditation

Weekly Meditation

Many disciples of Jesus over the years who have lived
their faith in love and service and come to a closer
relationship with Jesus and a better understanding of
themselves have shared reflections with us. St. Dorotheus,
Benedictine monk and abbot in the 12th century, shared his
thoughts on the reason for disturbance and unrest in our lives:

". . . The reason for all disturbance, if we look to its roots,
is that no one finds fault with himself. This is the source of
all annoyance and distress. This is why we sometimes have no
rest . . . .This is the way we are. It does not matter how many
virtues a man may have, even if they are beyond number and
limit. If he has turned from the path of self-accusation,
he will never find peace. He will always be troubled himself,
or else he will be a source of trouble for others and all his
labors will be wasted."

God, our compassionate Father, help us to know ourselves and
achieve an honest self concept. May we, when appropriate and
necessary, have the courage to say "I admit a made a mistake.
I was at fault." Help us appreciate and use the gift of the
Sacrament of Reconciliation your Son gave the church for our
forgiveness and peace.

Bishop William R. Houck
President Emeritus, Catholic Extension
www.catholicextension.org