16. Nurtured By the Readings

Encapsulating the readings, the lector introduces it and concludes with the assertion, "The Word of the Lord." People respond, "Thanks be to God." As if we did not know, the lector is making it explicit that the Lord is the one speaking to us. The priest or deacon also introduces the Gospel and finishes with the statement of fact: "The Gospel of the Lord." Having heard the Good News, the people respond, "Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ." Again, there is no doubt left in either statement who the principal speaker is during the proclamation. To further elevate the Gospel, candles and incense may accompany it. We recall the sentiment, "May our prayers ascend to God as the smoke of the incense, with pleasing fragrance." Did you ever have times when you went to your grandmother's house as she prepared the meal? Coming inside, you would notice how the food smells good, then you would notice that it looks good, and finally, having been drawn to it, you would realize that it tastes good. The Gospel is also good. Like the Eucharist, it is also the food of life. The priest (or deacon) will make the sign of the cross upon the book. Next, he will make the same gesture with his thumb upon his forehead, his lips, and his heart. It is by the proclamation of the Good News that we desire TO KNOW, TO PROFESS, and TO LOVE the Lord who comes to us in faith.