Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Bernardine of Siena, a Franciscan priest, born in 1380, who spent his very life preaching throughout Italy. He was dedicated to proclaiming the name of Jesus and did so wherever he went. He is a great model for our community, the Sisters of Jesus Our Hope. The very name of Jesus is contained in our community name, and our mission is to proclaim Jesus Christ – his life, his teachings, his promises – and the great truth of his merciful love which is the source of hope for the whole world. St. Bernardine wrote: “The name of Jesus is the glory of preachers, because the shining splendor of that name causes his word to be proclaimed and heard.”The name of Jesus has great power for our lives. In Scripture we read how Sts. Peter and John were brought before the Sanhedrin to explain by what power they had cured a crippled boy. Peter responded: “If we must answer today for a good deed done to a cripple and explain how he was restored to health, then you and all the people of Israel must realize that it was done in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean whom you crucified… In the power of that name this man stands before you perfectly healed. ” (Acts 4:8-10)
When people ask the Sisters who they are and when we say the name “Jesus” it is as if a small arrow pierces their hearts. Their eyes light up and their faces take on a look of understanding. There is sweetness in that name that penetrates the clouds in the lives of many people. You know it was God, the Father, who chose that name! He entrusted it to the Angel Gabriel who took it to Mary and Joseph. It would please the Father if we spoke that name with reverence, with thanksgiving and with joy.
As I was reflecting on this great mystery today I was reminded of a song we sometimes sing:
Jesus, name above all names!
Beautiful Savior, glorious Lord.
Emmanuel, God is with us.
Blessed Redeemer, living Word!
Yes, Jesus is with us, he is alive! He is a Person with a name so we can speak to him by name! Sing that song throughout today and let the name of Jesus penetrate whatever clouds might be in your life. “Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; sing praise to His name which we love.” (Ps 135:3)
2 comments:
this is beautiful and I love that PHOTO OF JESUS i TRY AND PRAY but lately am feeling I am losing my faith I dont know what is going on but thank you for sharing God bless love Joanne
What a beautiful post. I also love the picture of Jesus. This same picture is in the chapel at the homeless shelter I serve at.
I also love that song. Jesus is the best name ever! There is no one like our Lord.
I am so blessed to have found your website. I have been searching for a community to be a part of. It is important to me that Jesus is first. I have been to other religous websites and the name of Jesus is not even mentioned, also the sisters do not where habits.
Please pray for me.
God bless you!
Post a Comment