Dear friends in Christ,
Here we are back in Ordinary time again. It’s called “ordinary” because these are counted weeks (think of “ordinal” numbers—that word comes from the same Latin root). Probably in common parlance most people assume that the “ordinary” of Ordinary Time means what we usually mean by the word: nothing special, typical, the opposite of anything extraordinary.
Yet, Ordinary Time isn’t meant to highlight how mundane, tiresome or uninteresting everyday life is. It is a period dedicated to reflecting on the public ministry and life of Jesus Christ. During this season, the Gospel readings recount the teachings, miracles, and parables of Jesus, inviting us to immerse ourselves in his words and actions. As symbolized in the liturgical colour for Ordinary Time, “green,” it is time of growth and new life. It is a season of maturation and deepening of our faith. So, let’s take the seeds God planted in our heart during Christmas, Lent, and Easter and allow them to grow into something fruitful. Ordinary Time can be a season of extraordinary faith!
Having said that, I am planning to observe some special themes, such as Refugee Sunday in July, the feast of transfiguration in August, the season of creation in September, and other feasts during this season. I hope and believe they are also all great ways for us to dive deeper as the Body of Christ. Let’s keep ordinary time extraordinary!
Yukiko
