Somehow I forgot to post this yesterday.  It was a chaotic morning.  Anyway, here it is…

“Do not be afraid.  You are worth more than many sparrows.”

As far as affirmations go, that’s probably one of the more lackluster ones you’ve ever received.  Of course you’re worth more than many sparrows.  Sparrows are hardly worth noticing; even bird-watchers don’t get that excited to see them.  Had Jesus used a more impressive animal in this Gospel discourse, I might feel a little better.  You are worth more than many horses – at least horses are useful for doing work.  You are worth more than many cows – they at least provide food for people.  You are worth more than many lions – they’re pretty impressive in their own right.  But sparrows?

Perhaps we look at this passage the wrong way.  It’s not so much about us and our sense of self-worth as it is about God and His care for creation.  There is nothing that God doesn’t notice.  There is nothing that He does not care for.  Nothing is insignificant to Him.  That should be a source of great consolation to us.  We all have times when we feel completely overwhelmed, or woefully under-qualified, or just lost and alone.  We can feel like no one understands, or worse, like no one cares.  But that’s just not true.  God doesn’t abandon His creatures.  Not His sparrows.  And certainly not you.

As you contemplate how much God loves you on this brisk fall morning, here are a few other things to contemplate…

ADORATION:  Looks like we have all the hours covered for today.  Nevertheless, don’t let that stop you from making a visit to the Blessed Sacrament and spending some quiet time with Our Lord.  And consider making a regular commitment to Adoration.

PRAYERS: Keep in your prayers Nina Isabelle Zanin, who will be baptized tomorrow.  Also, please pray for the young men and women of Immaculate Conception, who received the Sacrament of Confirmation last night, and keep our young men and women who will be Confirmed on November 11^th in your prayers as well.

TRUNK OR TREAT:  This Sunday, 6PM-8 PM in the parking lot.  For more information call the parish office.

25^TH ANNIVERSARY:   It’s almost here!  We hope you’ll join us for all – or at least some – of the great events we have planned.  If you are planning on coming, PLEASE help us plan properly by RSVP-ing; call Sharon at the parish office or using the form on our website: http://www.saintrichardparish.org/25th-anniversary.html

SHIRTS:  Commemorate our anniversary and show some parish pride by ordering your St. Richard Parish t-shirt.  See the flyer in this week’s bulletin or stop by the display after Mass this weekend.

Enjoy yet another beautiful fall weekend, and know you’re loved.

See you at Mass!

Peace,

Fr. Mike