The Gospel of Mark, chapter 11:52

Christians view themselves as pilgrims on this earth because they are on a journey. This journey begins with baptism and continues in the daily dying and rising that leads to union with God and with one another. This journey leads us home, to our spiritual home in heaven.

All Christians are heirs to a long history of journeying with God. It goes back to the days of Abraham. This journey makes many demands on its travelers. Hazards, roadblocks and dangerous curves mark its way. But, we believe that God walks with us, helping us to avoid the pitfalls that beset our journey.

We are not alone because we make this sojourn together. We face and share life’s dangers and surprises together. Together we renew our commitment to the life and mission of the baptized during Advent and Lent. Together we welcome new members into our community of faith. Together we work to reconcile and restore forgotten or abandoned relationships. There’s an old saying that claims, “where your treasure is, there will your heart be.” Along this journey we discover where our treasure is; it is within us, doing God’s will and living with a good conscience.

Jesus took time to begin His journey. He began His public ministry at the age of thirty and He began it by entering into the desert in the spirit of prayer. Without prayer, all our activities can be empty and heartless because they lack direction. Prayerful reflection enables us to be accountable for our actions, to direct our lives in a worthwhile direction. “When you pray”, says the Lord, “enter into your room and pray to your heavenly Father in secret.”

Being a pilgrim means taking stock of our behavior and re-directing our lives according to the teaching and example of Christ.

What a journey we have embarked upon! And, what a privilege it is to be a pilgrim on this awesome journey.

Fr. Hugh Duffy