PART XII– A DAY OF RICHES
The spiritual and pastoral riches of Sunday as it has been handed on to us by tradition, are truly great. When its significance and implications are understood in their entirety, Sunday in a way becomes a synthesis of the Christian life and a condition for loving it well. It is clear therefore why the observance of the Lord’s Day is so close to the Church’s heart … (Pope John Paul II, Dies Domini, 81).

WORDS TO LIVE BY
And so, we close these reflections on understanding, appreciating and committing ourselves to living the Christian life with Sunday at its center. Let us remember that this is more than an obligation imposed on us by the Church. It is a crucial aspect of being fully human, which is why we work to be sure all people have the right and ability to celebrate the Lord’s Day. Even when the culture in which we live tempts us with business and work; even when our own greed or compulsion to work tempts us to skip Sunday rest, the Church invites us to remain strong. Even if we are tempted to ignore the plight of the poor, or keep them on the margins of life, God gives us Sundays for communal love and caring. Understood in this way, Sunday becomes a well-spring of hope for the soul, a healing balm, a time of peace and rest. Gathering for liturgy, sharing meals afterward, and resting from work all become the stuff from which our spiritual lives are nourished.

FOR REFLECTION
What one lesson do you take away from Pope John Paul II’s reflections on Sunday?

YOUR COMMITMENT
Going forward now, be committed to setting aside Sunday as the Lord’s Day, one on which to rejoice and be glad. + Blessings, Peace and Amen!