Daily Reflection for Monday, March 23, 2020
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners!
We encourage you to reflect on Monday’s readings at this link:
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/032320.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Isaiah 65:17-21
Responsorial: Psalm 30:2 and 4, 5-6, 11-12A and 13B
Gospel: John 4:43-54
Our reflection on Monday’s readings:
“For Jesus himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his native place." John 4: 44
How often do we as humans struggle with the desire to be recognized? I know that at times I have felt somewhat invisible. At others, I wish to be invisible. In either situation, I recognize the very human need to be known and loved for who I am. Perhaps to be loved in spite of myself and any faults I may have.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks about lack of acceptance. In verse 44, He says that a prophet is not honored in his native place. His response to those who do not believe Him is clear. His mission and message are too important to spend time with people who are not open to hearing it, who do not appreciate Him and His Father. Therefore, He leaves that community and travels to other areas where He is welcome.
Jesus was not recognized in His native place even though He was more than the greatest prophet. He was the one about whom others prophesized. Yet, He knew the way of our human nature. I so appreciate the calm and positive model Jesus demonstrated. He left the negative situation. Jesus went elsewhere. He did not get angry or side-tracked from His true calling; to be about His Father’s work. He let go of any human need to be recognized and His Godly-side kept Him focused on His mission.
This Lent I am feeling called to re-center and revisit the call from within for myself. The word “connection” continues to weave its way through my prayer time each day. I am reminded of just how many ways we need to connect with others without our physical presence. This is indeed very important as we respond to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic crisis.
I am still called, and I believe we all are. Won’t you join me in the challenge to find new ways to connect with each other?
In Heartfelt Joy,
Lynne Brennan