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I was in a liturgy class a few years ago, and something that stood out to me from one of the first nights was a line from a book we were reading. I can’t remember the book or the exact quote, but it basically said that if we celebrated Mass as fully as we are supposed to, it should bring us to the edge of chaos (if you know what book this is from, please let me know so I can update this).
The edge of chaos. Does that sound like an experience you’ve ever had at Mass?
If you’re answer is no, then you’re not doing Mass right.
Don’t worry, I’m pointing the finger at myself when I say that.
I think the biggest reason we don’t get to the edge is because we don’t sincerely take in what we’re experiencing. And I’m not just talking about the Eucharist, although Jesus Christ being physically present in the consecrated Bread and Wine is already a miracle. Yet all too often we mindlessly say, “Amen,” and walk back to our pew wondering whether I should’ve taken a bigger sip from the chalice or not (is that just me?).
The readings at Mass are for us. They are relevant. They are important. And if we’re really listening – they’re as challenging as heaven (I could’ve said hell, but I think heaven will is way harder).
Today’s readings seem to focus a lot on mercy – not merely on God’s mercy, but on the mercy we should have for each other because of the mercy God has for us. If, by chance, you actually paid attention, you probably sat in the pew and thought, “Yeah, got it, be merciful – heard that plenty of times before and I do that well enough.”
Oh really?
via GIPHY
Have you seen yourself in action? How often do you hold a grudge against someone? How often do you get angry at the little things (like someone who takes up two spots when parking – I mean, c’mon people!)?
Have you ever not forgiven someone because of something they did, only to realize later that you’ve done the exact same thing (or even worse, not realize that you’ve done the exact same thing)?
How hard would you have to work to be as forgiving as God? What would your life be like? What would your relationships be like? Could you even imagine living like that (seriously, try to think about it)?
And that’s where the edge of chaos is. It’s in the realization that what God is calling you to do and who God is calling you to be is almost unfathomable. But with God, not impossible (don’t take my word for it, take God’s Word for it. Literally).
So every week, come to Mass ready to try. Don’t come waiting for the homilies or the music to get better – because someone is always going to have a problem with the homily or the music. Focus on what’s important. There’s a reason why it’s called the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, and not the Liturgy of the Homily and the Liturgy of the Music. They’re important, but they’re not the most important.
