By The run today felt really good. I ran down Front street to Vine and around to 4th street and then wound my way back to the Cathedral. I do my best to stay on turf these days because I have some problems with my feet so it is always a challenge to find the "green stuff" in the midst of streets, sidewalks and driveways. The temp etc. was just about perfect for running today, cool and crisp. I was glad to be able to get outside again after the Nordic Track Trek yesterday.
Reflecting on the readings for this Sunday as I ran I kept going back to the portion of the Gospel where the young man walks away sad. My homily will somehow focus on that basic theme for this weekend and I would encourage all of us to reflect on it. How am I tempted to "walk away sad" from the call of Jesus Christ? In our sinfulness and weakness I believe all of us face that temptation. Sometimes living the Way of Jesus Christ the Son of God just seems to be so far beyond what we can manage we can think all we can do is "walk away". Whatever the challenges of living Christ in our own personal journey, in our families and in our society let's not "walk away sad" but instead trust in the Lord and continue to see His Way.
I'm off to a Canon Law meeting in Kentucky after masses tomorrow. It will be interesting to see how I can get Day 11 taken care of with the travel and all. Hopefully next installment will be "live from Kentucky".
HAVE A BLESSED SUNDAY.
Joseph Strickland
Bishop Joseph E. Strickland was named the fourth bishop of Tyler in September of 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI. Prior to being named bishop, he served a number of roles in the diocese, including vicar general, judicial vicar, and pastor of the Cathedral parish. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1985. 