February 14,
Introduction for the 6th Sunday in Ordinary Times
Resurrection Medical Center

Today is the 6th Sunday in Ordinary times.  The first Reading from the Prophet Jeremiah reminds us that we are called to place our trust in the Lord and if we do so we will be like a “tree planted beside the waters” and we will need not fear drought or distress because the Lord will provide us protection.  The second reading from Saint Paul’s letter to the Corinthians recants the same message even more emphatically by reminding us that even death itself does not have power over us, if we put our trust and faith in Christ.  Then in the Gospel Jesus teaches us that we can only find life and true happiness if we plant our desires on the firm promises of God.  Christ reminds his disciples that the human heart cries out in longing and expectation for what can only be satisfied by God.  The riches and pleasures of the world are shallow and do not lead to lasting happiness.  True blessedness, true joy comes to the heart that places all its trust in the Lord. 

Our symbol today is a small tree by the altar.  It reminds us that we are called to plant ourselves at the altar of the Lord where we can be filled with the life-giving Word of God and the very Body of Christ.   Here at the altar, like a tree near running waters, our hearts will be filled with more blessings than we could ever imagine or dare to hope for.

                                               For God so loV ed the world, 
                                                     That He gA ve 
                                                            his onL y 
                                                          BegottE n 
                                                                SoN 
                                                                    T hat whosoever 
                                                        elieveth I n Him 
                                                         Should N ot perish, 
                                                       But have E verlasting life." 
                                                                 John 3:16 
                                                                Origin unknown