March 15th (3.8.15), Sunday, Third Week of Lent

Exodus 20: 1-17, Psalm 19: 8, 9, 10, 11, 1 Corinthians 1: 22-25, John 2: 13-25

In reflecting on today's gospel John 2:13-25, it occurred to me, "more is expected of those who more has been given" and so I accepted the invitation to share my thoughts and insights with our parish community. To my older contemporaries I urge you to share your wisdom and love of Christ with the less fortunate. To the younger men and women, continue to strive for getting to "know" God. To "know" Him is to love Him. Giving good example is worth a thousand words.

To the younger boys and girls, you too will have to come to "know" God through prayer and study. All of us should establish priorities, placing God at the top of our list. With all the distractions a secular world offers, it is a struggle to stay focused. This is very important.

Growing up during the depression life wasn't easy: temptations and sin were there, just as they are today. The parish became the focal point for social and spiritual activities, along with encouraging frequent Mass and confession. While serving during WWII, getting to Mass and the sacraments was irregular at best. When the opportunity arose, you seized the moment in response to the desire and need you carried with you. The desire developed and matured from early training received at home and school. Emphasis was placed on the commandments and the Baltimore Catechism.

I am confident that the challenges our generation were confronted with made us realize the difference between "need and want." It appears with present economy, along with the war, terrorism, health care, etc. we are going to be faced with some tough choices. In today's reading of the Psalms 19: 8-10, we are reminded that God's law, when followed, protects us and makes us wise, given the promise of eternal salvation. So it is with gratitude. I realize how much I have been given, and welcomed the opportunity to share. Lent is an especially good time to develop virtuous lives.

Luke Kehoe, widower, eight children, 13 grandchildren, member of the "Greatest Generation"