An Elder Pilgrim's Reflections

and whoever gives even a cup of cold water  to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple —truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward.” There's something holy about sharing a cup of cold water.  Surely there's holiness in the simple act of compassion when one person takes the time to recognize thirst in another and quench it.  Certainly, it's a gesture refreshing a thirsty soul wandering in a spiritual desert. Sharing a cup of cold water facilitates a holy hospitality in our ever-increasing society of disrespect.  Probably it's a way of teaching holiness to new disciples, "little ones", regarding the meaning of caring for others in Jesus' name. Clearly, it's a sign of hope in a world that doesn't seem to have a sense of justice and longing for the new age Jesus talked about.  These types of holy actions are definitely a something and individual can do as part of being a disciple of Jesus. Jesus reminds the disciples he represent...

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny?  Yet not one of them will fall to the ground  unperceived by your Father.  And even the hairs of your head are all counted.  So do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows. (from Mt.10:24-39 ) Fear is a powerful emotion. Trust me, I know first-hand. I took a youth group to the observation site on Place' Ville Marie with its awesome view of Montreal.  The elevator doors opened revealing the observation site as glass from ceiling to floor.  The youth ran right to its edge and looked out upon this incredible scene. Terrified, I leaned against the wall as far from the edge as possible. Now imagine Jesus gathering the disciples around and describing their mission. Their mission? Proclaim: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons' The disciples, eager to continue Jesus' mission, realize it is dangerous and may cost their lives. Jesus understands...

“Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the Israelites: You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself." (from Exodus 19:2-8a ) I met the 17-year-old and his family were walking past our house with luggage and plastic bags.  I asked about this odd procession, a single mom with three boys, and discovered they recently moved into the neighborhood and were walking to the laundromat because they had no car.  When I met the family again on the way to the laundromat, I asked the teen if he would help me with yard work for a little cash. "Yes, sir," he replied. He arrived on the set day and I showed him how to use the trimmer.  When he finished trimming, I invited him to share some water as we sat on our deck.  As we chatted, I asked him if he knew how to play dominos. "No, sir, but I'd like to learn." We set up a time, he arrived, learned how to play, and we played several games. During the gam...

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you ( from  Matthew 28:16-20 . Also Read  Daniel 7:13-14 ) Imagine you are a star player on the Celtics. You are sitting in the locker room with your foot soaking in ice to reduce your swollen ankle injury. Not only did your injury keep you from playing your best because of the constant pain, but your team lost by an embarrassing 19 points.  Your season is over with little left but everyone's opinion. A good pep talk for you and your team would restore hope and help healing. This is pretty much the situation of the disciples.  Judas' treason created confusion among them. Previously, Jesus told them to meet him on the mountain top outside Galilee. So, with hope, they went to the mountain and met Jesus. The pep talk began as the disciples are reminded God gave Jesus "all authority...