I am not sure how many people like to play sports or games; but there are often a lot of rules to follow in both. Initially, rules can appear very frustrating and bothersome. They appear to limit our freedom and inhibit our ability to have fun, but the purpose of rules is to ensure that we can function as well as we can. Rules offer you and I guidelines. They help us establish a meaning and a purpose, and they prevent us from veering too far off course.

Today’s readings on this sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time remind us of the purpose of God’s law and commandments. The commandments are not meant to restrict human freedom, but instead to help us flourish. Jesus himself instructs us that the commandments are to be fulfilled so that we can enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. When we respect God and others as the commandments require of us, then we deny our ego and take up the cross of Christ. This is truly the mark of discipleship, and it is what makes us one with our Lord and the saints who have gone before us. Perhaps today we can reflect upon the gift of knowing God’s law, recommit ourselves to knowing what God asks of us, and striving to do so. As our responsorial psalm tells us: Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

World Marriage Day: This weekend of February 11-12 is the celebration of World Marriage Day. The Church highlights on this weekend the great dignity that exists in the sacrament of marriage, and how the union of husband and wife mirrors the image of Christ the bridegroom’s love for his bride the Church. Thank you to all our married couples who witness to the world a sacrificial love that is rooted in Christ and builds up the Church.

Organ Voicing: From February 8-14, the pipe organ at St. Thomas More will be “voiced,” which means that the pipes will be inspected to make sure they are working correctly. Those who are working on this process will check both the pipes and the digital pipes for accuracy. Although Masses will continue as normal during this time and the Church will be open, those who are working on the organ may be busy making a joyful noise to the Lord and need silence to concentrate. We apologize for any inconvenience and noise for those trying to pray in the Church during this time, but this is needed to make sure the organ works as well as can be. Your patience is appreciated.