The Kingdom of Heaven is like…
This Sunday’s Gospel we will hear not once, not twice but four times Jesus say: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like… ” Think He is trying to make a point? Reality is that we have little way of really understanding the awesome experience of eternal life. This world, this reality is so full of sin that any example given is limited. Although I thought I caught a glimpse last weekend.
As most of you know my daughter was one of the 6 pilgrims to World Youth Day from our Church. She was one 15,000 attending from the United States; one of 140,000 registered participants and one of 600,000 who attended the Mass on Sunday. Yes, I have followed this WYD with much more interest than in past years. But because of that I have a much deeper appreciation for what a gift this experience is for the Church universal. Dare I say, The Kingdom of Heaven is like WYD; not in the commercial, organized chaos but in the universality and joy of its celebrations.
Looking at the TV as the cameras panned the faces of those attending they were all so different. Young and old; White and Black and every color in between. These young faces so filled with joy and obvious pleasure coming from 90 different nations. These youth, who have limited power were being catered to by the hierarchy of the formal Church. It was all about them and enriching their faith. Celebrating their faith. I dare you to find a similar faith event in any denomination. As Catholics we are fortunate indeed. And watching the final Mass! Outstanding! The beauty of the symbols both demanded by the rubrics and those created for the moment, even now its hard to find words. And this coming from one who just watched! Can you imagine be one of those half million participants?
We are given small glimpses into the happiness we will find in our eternal reward. The laughter of small children; the solace we find in family and friend and celebrating Mass especially under the circumstances as was found in Sydney, Australia. I remain, your servant in Christ,
Theresa
Tags: Catholic, church, Kingdom of God, Matthew 13, WYD 2008, Youth
You can comment below, or link to this permanent URL from your own site.