Daily Reflection for Monday, April 12, 2021
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners,
We encourage you to reflect on Monday’s readings at this link:
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/041221.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Acts 4: 23-31
Responsorial: Psalm 2: 1-3, 4-7a, 7b-9
Gospel: John 3: 1-8
Our reflection on Monday’s readings:
“. . . Lord, take note of their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with all boldness.” Acts 4: 29
“As they prayed, the place where they were gathered shook, and they were all filled with the holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.” Acts 4: 31
It takes boldness and courage to follow Jesus, the risen Christ, with our actions and words. The challenge, I think, is not simply to speak and act as Jesus taught. The challenge is to do so with the heart of Jesus. The heart that loves every person and values each soul – regardless of faults, actions, nationality, religion, or race.
As followers of Christ, we are called to share the message Jesus taught. It was not an easy task for the Apostles, and it is not easy in today’s world. The Holy Spirit is needed so we can see others with vision guided by the heart of Jesus.
Like the disciples, we can no longer simply follow Jesus’ teachings within our household, faith community, and other comfort zones. We are called to “speak the word of God with boldness.” The status quo we know is not good enough today, just as it wasn’t enough for Jesus. In addition, we are to be patiently, prayerfully “filled with the Holy Spirit” before we speak.
This is a relatively easy charge in some situations, such as when we are part of a retreat team, serving on staff at a church, or meeting with friends in a small church community. We pray together, ask the Holy Spirit to be present, and enjoy the fruits of our sharing. Even though there may be contentious conversation or disagreements, we are cocooned in a spirit-filled environment.
It was not that safe an environment for the disciples when they traveled to spread the good news of salvation, and it is often not easy for us. The risk is stepping out on our own, thinking we have something important to say. What we want to say or do is not important. The only message of value is what Christ wants someone he loves to hear. Our challenge is getting out of God’s way.
Blessings to you,
Ruth Mytty