The readings from Isaiah and Paul’s letter to the Corinthians talk about the Spirit of God being present in community. In the Gospel of John, Jesus reveals himself as the incarnate God in an intimate communal setting, a friend’s wedding.

This week, as we read and reflect on the Scripture and on the lives of people transformed by the Xaverian Charism, consider the challenge and the joy of finding God in ordinary communal settings. St. Paul’s outline of the ideal Christian community in Corinth is quite simple-be open to one’s spiritual gifts and give that gift away to others you know those you don’t know. Then, be at peace that whatever earthly station in life you find yourself because of these gifts, that you are a reflection of God and part of something great, something holy, and that in this communal setting of faith that you are loved and free to love. It sounds so simple, but it is incredibly difficult given our very human desire to stand out and above others, be it through achievements or acquisitions. We foolishly associate them as examples of real power, instead of being aware of the real power in sharing it or giving it away. We choose fission instead of fusion. We are blessed, though, to know and read about the women and men who understand their place (which may change over time!) in their communities and in their journeys into the unknown, and who knit people and their environment back together thread by thread.

This week, as we read the letter to the Hebrews and Gospel of Mark, be inspired by the ordinary but transformative messages of perseverance, making connections with other people when social norms dictate otherwise, and healing through the balance of action and contemplation.

As an example of someone who envisioned what Paul’s letter to the Corinthians could be, consider reading the extraordinary life of Brother Lambert Bents, CFX, and think about the life giving choices he made in his long Xaverian mission. Have a good week.