Monday: Feast of Mark, Evangelist April 25, 2005 Scripture: 1 Peter 5:5-14; Mark 16:15-20 Reflection: “Preemptive” has been a word embedded in the recent past with numerous and unambiguous discussions regarding the preemptive war against Iraq. In reflecting on today’s readings the notion of preempting, seizing an initiative within the context of right relationships surfaced as a challenging image. We are enjoined by the reading from 1 Peter to clothe ourselves with humility, to embrace our dependence on God’s unconditional love, to adopt God’s ways as our own and to trust in God’s willingness to forgive and redeem. Our ability to walk humbly with God enables us to journey in solidarity and charity with all, believing that each is an esteemed friend of God. Humility preempts judgment, alienation, and apathy as it builds and maintains right relationships. The reading from Mark’s Gospel reminds us that those who live faith-filled lives have the capacity to use God’s name to preempt the demons, lack of communication, toxic situations and sickness that impair relationships. The “signs” are on those, who in God’s name seize the opportunity to reconcile that which has been fractured and nurture back to wholeness those who have been violated and forgotten. What “signs” will accompany your acts of faith and reconciliation today? Suggested Action: Clothed with humility, take a long, loving look at the situations in which you find yourself today. Identify and respond to one of the demons, the toxic situations, the barriers in communication and the dis-ease that need your preemptive readiness to heal and restore. Sr. Kathryn Clauss, IHM Scranton, Pennsylvania

Graphic: Sr. Donna Korba, IHM