On this Labor Day weekend, which often marks the end of summer, we take a welcome rest from our labors. Whether that be in a factory or field, store or office, school or home, we take time out for the one who promised that his yoke is easy and his burden light. Let us pray especially for those whose own burden is difficult, those who need to work more than one job to support their families, those who do not receive the gratitude and compensation they deserve for their work, and those who are unemployed or underemployed.
It is noteworthy that the first words the deaf and mute man in the Gospel hears presumably in his entire life were the words of Jesus. His ears have been opened to hear God’s words and his tongue loosened to proclaim God’s good news. At our baptism there is the Ephphatha rite that recalls this event. The priest or deacon touches the ears and mouth of the child saying, “The Lord Jesus made the deaf hear and the mute speak. May he soon touch your ears to receive His word, and your mouth to proclaim His faith, the praise and glory of God the Father.” By virtue of our baptism, we are all this man, touched by God’s grace and made ready to speak God’s Word to the world.
Love, Peace, Joy,
Fr. Bob
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