Sunday reflections

One of the more enduring genres of film in recent decades has been the road movie. The plot typically involves two or more companions who embark on a long and arduous road trip, either on foot or by planes, trains and automobiles.

Today’s readings introduce us to the mysterious High Priest, Melchizedek, who has an encounter with Abraham, the better-known Israelite figure. Abraham, as we know, became the founding father of Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

When studying subjects dedicated to The Most Holy Trinity during my seminary formation, I was introduced to the concept of perichoresis. This Greek word suggests: a cyclical movement or an interweaving of figures. Perhaps the simplest and most beautiful way of translating this Greek word is: ‘dancing around’.

Today’s feast of Pentecost brings the liturgical season of Easter to a close. With the Risen Christ’s gift of the Holy Spirit to his disciples, the plan of salvation is brought to its conclusion.

This is the age of celebrity. To have a selfie taken with a famous person seems to be the ambition of half the population. After all, in every generation people have looked up to those who have made their grand mark in life.

We are still in the Easter season celebrating a new creation. John’s gospel takes us back before the Easter event as we hear another part of the farewell spoken by Jesus before his death.

This Sunday’s readings give us an understanding of the life of the Church. The first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we see the Church’s very beginnings. Paul and Barnabas travel between cities sharing the Good News of the gospel.

The image of God as shepherd of his people is strong in both the Old and the New Testament. Indeed, one of the earliest and most loved images of Jesus in the early Church was of him as the Good Shepherd who so loves his sheep that he lays down his life for them.

Sitting down to a nice meal with family and friends is important in cultures worldwide. Often, a lot of thought and effort goes into the preparation and planning of the menu. In many households, the dishes for significant family gatherings often consist of old favourites.