Volunteering for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign

Volunteering for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign
Volunteering for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign

Morning Star's New Banner

Morning Star's New Banner
Morning Star's New Banner

The Front View of the Worcester Masonic Center

The Front View of the Worcester Masonic Center
The Front View of the Worcester Masonic Center

Close-Up view of the Worcester Masonic Center

Close-Up view of the Worcester Masonic Center
Close-Up view of the Worcester Masonic Center

MSL's Annual Table Lodge

MSL's Annual Table Lodge
MSL's Annual Table Lodge

Monday, December 1, 2014

Master's Message - December 2014

“Is there greatness in you?” We have all heard and seen this inspirational interrogatory in Masonic advertisements. We have all been moved by the deep resonating voice of “Ben Franklin” and presumably the voices of all of our forefathers asking each Mason this “not-so” rhetorical question. Is the question just a fanciful turn of phrase meant to simply entice men, or is it a deeper abiding look into the fabric of each of us. What is the answer for you? Have you really taken a moment in time and answered the question for yourself, or has it stayed rhetorical?

The simplest of answer to the question is a resounding “Yes”; there is greatness in ALL of us. Each man possesses the intrinsic ability to achieve greatness in whatever measure or arena he may choose. Freemasonry and its “secrets” allows every man to find and cultivate that inherent value through a process of self discovery and broadening friendships. Our “valuable lessons” are nothing more than age-old truths. The U.S. Constitution, drafted by the aid of so many prominent Freemasons, contends, “… these truths to be self-evident…”, yet are they? Or have they been invariably diminished in the character of men by folly and vice from so many of the world’s excesses.

When “self-evident” becomes clouded by the world; Freemasonry stands as a beacon of hope for concerned men. Each man is free to explore the extent of these truths to whatever depths they choose. We utilize allegory and symbolism as the working tools by which the Craft provokes men to search for their greatness. This method of directed exploration of the intellect is ancient and has been validated by historical precedence. The ideals that were imbued in the greatness of Brother George Washington are the very same as those within each of us.

Armed with the knowledge of a path to greatness does not ensure success. Success requires effort. No great or important undertaking was ever accomplished alone. God is our first pillar, the Fraternity our second, and our “own exertions” the final column in support our journey. The first two are freely given to every Mason, the last must be earned. Effort requires commitment, energy and confidence and once begun, will gather its own momentum. Search every word of our degrees for the deeper meaning than that spoken. Seek opportunities for service to others, for through empathy and compassionate service our heart grows stronger.

This holiday season, as we take the time to appreciate the manifold blessings around us, remember to take a moment to look within and thank God for the blessing and privilege to be a Mason and the limitless opportunity which that presents to fulfill the greatness in you.

Fraternally,
John F. Sullivan, Master