July 4. SEE.   “When I hear about drinking I get all knotted up inside.”  Mabel shared.  “At church gatherings at least they shouldn’t have wine because alcoholism and drunkenness is such a big problem these days. I know I had it in our family and it affected all of us, all ages.”  “But should we not also be able to appreciate a good wine. It is a gift from God too,” Dorothy said.  “Moderation my dear, is what I always say.”  Joseph concluded. PS. Patrick added, “I wonder how the 4th July celebrations in the US will be going this year? I’m sure moderation in everyuthing should be the order of the day at this time.”

JUDGE. Reflect and share. Scripture. Behold the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will restore the fortunes of my people Israel, they shall plant vineyards and drink their wine and they shall make gardens and eat their fruit.” From Amos 9:11-15. Pope Francis: “In old age they will still bear fruit.” Ps 92:15) These words of the Psalmist are glad tidings, a true gospel that we can proclaim to all.  They run counter to what the world thinks about this stage of life, but also to the attitude of grim resignation shown by some of us elderly people, who harbour few expectations for the future. A long life – so the Bible teaches – is a blessing, and the elderly are not outcasts to be shunned, but living signs of the goodness of God, who bestows life in abundance.   Blessed is the house where an older person lives! Blessed is the family that honours the elderly! Pope Leo: 166. The family, is a fragile social good immediately affected by the economic and technological transformations. Supporting families and young people requires choices that make stability feasible. Measures are needed to ensure a healthy way of living, for without a proper balance between work, leisure and rest, families are weakened and young people struggle to develop a sense of responsibility.  MH 169  

ACT AND PRAY.  Check out your work-family balance at this critical time.  Pray the Prayer of St Francis and pray for grandparents and the elderly.  We pray for God’s blessing on the grandparents and elderly of our families and community,  bless them with peace and contentment and an acceptance that their lives were well spent in your service. We ask St Joachim and St Anne, the grandparents of Jesus, to pray with us.