SOCL, TrinityB

Sunday May 26, 2024

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

See

When people struggle to believe in God at all, our Christian faith in God as Trinity may seem somehow a needless complication. Yet, we do know that relationships and relationality stand at the heart of our human wellbeing. Words do fail us, of course, and yet we know that God in God’s own very being is Love. This inner love (the “immanent Trinity”) has been spoken and told, disclosed and revealed in Jesus and the Spirit (the “economic Trinity”). And yet, we affirm one God. This evident paradox must first of all be lived in prayer and only then haltingly alluded to in stumbling words.

Listen

Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40; Psalm 33 (32); Romans 8:14-17; Matthew 28:16-20

Reflect

(Matthew 28:16-20)

-Jesus meets the disciples for the last time. His final words give them direction for their future. Perhaps you can recall such parting moments in your own life – leaving home, school, college, or the death of a loved one. Was there an occasion when the words spoken to you gave you direction for the future?

-Perhaps you can identify with Jesus in the story, when as a parent, teacher, or in some other way you sent someone on his/her way in life, knowing that you would not be with him or her as in the past. When did the way you parted help the other to make his or her way in life?

-Despite this extraordinary encounter with Jesus some of the disciples doubted. Dealing with questions and doubt is part of an adult faith journey. How have your questions and doubts helped to shape the faith you have today?

-Jesus commissioned this collection of believing and doubting disciples to carry on his work. We inherit that mission today. How do you see yourself as commissioned to continue the mission of Jesus?

-Jesus told his disciples that although he would not be physically with them he would be with them in a new way right through life. Have there been times when you were reassured by the love and support of another even though s/he was not physically present with you? What are the things that help you to be aware of the presence of Jesus with you on life’s journey?

Pray

God our Father you have given us a share in the life that is yours with your Son and the Holy Spirit. Strengthen that life within your Church, that we may know your presence, observe your commands, and proclaim the gospel to every nation. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Act

-Nurture Relationships: Focus on strengthening your relationships through meaningful conversations, active listening, and empathy, reflecting the relational nature of God.

-Act with Love: Embody divine love in daily actions by being kind, generous, and compassionate. Volunteer, support those in need, and be present for others, making love tangible.

-Daily Prayer: Integrate prayer into your routine to connect with the divine. Use this time for reflection, seeking guidance, strength, and peace in your daily life.

References

-United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. (2024at, May 26). The solemnity of the most Holy Trinity. USCCB. https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/052624.cfm

--Sunday readings. (n.d.-s). Hearers of the Word. https://www.tarsus.ie/SundayReadings/