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In this week’s gospel, Judas hands Jesus over to the chief priests in exchange for 30 pieces of silver - the ultimate betrayal of a man, who lived to serve, heal and reveal the love of God to us all.
Judas’ ultimate regret of his decision makes me reflect on the question: What is true wealth?
Last week, a group of us journeyed deep into the heart of Appalachia to live with an intentional community devoted to service, prayer, simplicity and community. We spent long days learning how to use power tools and working on home improvements for those in need. We planted onions, harvested fresh kale, dug, pitchforked, composted, raked and probably did every other farm chore you can think of. We conserved water by taking bucket showers and using sawdust toilets. We cooked, cleaned and washed dishes by hand. We used a wood-burning stove to keep warm at night. We put away our cell phones for the whole week and didn’t have access to a tv or any electronic entertainment.
Yet with all those sacrifices - in our reflection time at the end of each day, we marveled together at the absolute richness of the experience of life on Bethlehem Farm.
From dawn to dusk, we were surrounded by gorgeous views of the mountains. We gathered together to enjoy organic, locally grown, delicious meals every morning, noon and night. We learned new things about sustainability, Catholic social teaching, local artists and justice issues faced by the Appalachian people. Without phones, we made time to be fully present and engaged in meaningful conversations with one another throughout our days. Without technology, we entertained each other with home-made music, karaoke singalongs, stories, game nights, dance parties and creativity. We got plenty of fresh air and exercise. We shared beautiful times of prayer and reflection. We forged genuine relationships with one another, the caretakers at the farm and community members, who we served.
So, what is true wealth?
I think Jesus said it best in John 10:10 “I came that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Personally, I most tangibly experience the abundant wealth and fullness of life when I am able to live in harmony with God, nature, family and community, while being of service to others in meaningful ways like we did last week at Bethlehem Farm.
I pray that we are all blessed to find that same kind of authentic spiritual wealth in our daily lives now that we're back home.
Have a question about a program or event going on in Campus Ministry? Got an idea for something you'd like to see happen? EMAIL US at ministry@sau.edu.
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This weekend at Mass we hear the story of the Women at the Well from John’s Gospel. This un-named woman in scripture can teach us a lot about how encountering Christ can change our perspective and have an impact on others.
The Woman at the Well encountered Christ while doing an ordinary everyday chore. We, too, can encounter Christ in everyday life. Christ is with us when we are doing laundry, eating dinner, studying for a test, writing a paper, lifting weights, running around the track, driving to our internship, and enjoying a stinger in the Beehive. If we dare to open our eyes and our ears to the people around us, we may be surprised that Christ dwells in them too. Relationships help us discover more about ourselves and experience Christ’s love and forgiveness.
After encountering Jesus and receiving his forgiveness and mercy, the woman ran into town to tell everyone about this stranger she met. We can only imagine the impact of her enthusiasm. I pray that we, too, experience Christ’s presence, His Love and His Forgiveness in our everyday lives and that we have the courage to share that Love and Forgiveness with others with great enthusiasm.
-Tammy
Francis at 10: A Papacy of Possibilities
St. Ambrose University extends a special invitation to students, faculty and staff to join us this spring for a 3-day event celebrating 10 years of Pope Francis!
A leader from and for the margins, this humble servant of God has captured the imagination of people across the globe. Attendees will hear from experts from around the world as they examine Pope Francis, including his theology, his ministry, and the future directions he has set for the Church and Christianity. Presentation topics will range from environmental concerns, economics and justice to a church on the margins, world religions, evangelization and inclusion.
We are honored to share that the event's closing mass will be hosted by the Papal Nuncio to the United States, His Excellency Archbishop Christophe Pierre, Titular Archbishop of Gunela.
Students, Faculty, and Staff are invited to attend any of the keynote or concurrent sessions Friday, March 17 and Saturday, March 18 without charge by registering for the conference and using the promo code PAPAL23.
Those who would like to attend the dinner Thursday night and/or the lunches Friday and Saturday, are asked to pay $40 and register using the promo code HUNGRYBEE.
Have a question about a program or event going on in Campus Ministry? Got an idea for something you'd like to see happen? EMAIL US at ministry@sau.edu.
