24th Friday in Ordinary Time
Deacon Robert Banet
Yo Scottie! Haven’t seen you in a while. What’s up?
Oh, I’ve been to the university. I’m a full-fledged neuro-scientist.
Then we’ll see you in church again?
Fraid not. I don’t believe in that stuff any more. I’ve found that religion is a crutch. Something a smart guy thought up.
What?
Yeah, all my professors think that way. It’s a way to make money and to help people through the rough spots in life. All man-made.
Well, Scottie, I’m sorry to hear you say that but I will say I agree with you.
What?
Yes, except for one thing.
What’s that?
Religion is not man-made, it’s made by God.
Oh, Charley. You’ve got to be kidding. You’ve never been to my professors. They’re really smart.
They may be smart but God has got them beat. He gave us religion to help us through the rough spots but also because it’s true. God is the ultimate reality. He is loving and merciful.
He gave us His Son and His Church and that is the truth. Yes, religion is a crutch and a wheel chair and an ambulance.
Charlie, you’ve lost your mind!
Yes, Jesus has given me a new mind, a new way of thinking.
If I had someone to pray to I’d pray for you.
There is Somebody, Scottie. He’s waiting for you.