St Lawrence the Deacon

Today is Tuesday the 10 August, the Feast of Saint Lawrence the Deacon.  

The community of Taizé sing, Dominus Spiritus est, The Lord is the Spirit; the Spirit gives life. God is the source of all life, the one in whom we live and move and have our being.  

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of John.  

John 12:24-26

Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honour.

Perhaps the place to start with this challenging saying of Jesus is with the idea of fruitfulness.  What kind of fruit do you think God wants you to bear in your life?  Can you sense the beauty and goodness of whatever that fruit might be?  

Jesus shows us a way of not clinging to life, but of living fully.  Is there some aspect of his life that really appeals to you?  Some aspect that might also be your way of being fully alive?   Love requires that we give of ourselves.  Where in your life are you being invited to give generously without counting the cost?  

As you listen again to the reading, remember that Jesus is not giving a lecture here - this isn't just talk - as he says this, he is preparing to give himself totally for you and for me.  

Whatever reactions you've had to this reading, take a moment now to notice them, and to speak to Jesus about how hearing his words has moved you.  

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.