Daily Reflection for Monday, March 9, 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/030920.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Daniel 9:4B-10
Responsorial: Psalm 79:8, 9, 11, and 13
Gospel: Luke 6:36-38
Our reflection on Monday’s readings:
“For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you." (Luke 6:38)
Today finds us all in the second week of Lent. A wonderful time to sit and reflect on the concept of God’s mercy. He is constantly pouring out mercy on our behalf. What a blessing this mercy is and can be if we avail ourselves of its presence.
Today’s gospel is really all about mercy and forgiveness. I highlighted the phrase that I love and lean into often in my life “for the measure with which you measure…” Not only am I being given mercy, but perhaps more importantly I am called to be merciful myself. To forgive others, let go of transgression against me, seek ways to reach out to others in need and bring all of this to my God who walks with me daily.
In reflecting on these readings, the word measure really struck me. How can I possibly measure all the riches that God has bestowed on me, much less the forgiveness and caring He also supplies. I am often amazed that when I find myself least deserving, He is still right there simply awaiting my acknowledgement for the need of His presence in my life and specifically in those situations I am trying to control all on my own.
This Lent I discerned that what I am being called to focus upon is connectedness. Today, I feel called to expand that beyond my original view of the term. I have so far been focusing on how to connect better with those He has already placed in my life and to be present; really present in body, mind and spirit when I am with someone or praying for someone for whom I can’t be physically present.
I hear His voice calling me to connect even with those I do not know. That mercy comes in small doses as well as large. Perhaps living from a position of simple kindness is something I can do with more intentionality. Smiles, kind words, simple acts of kindness such as holding a door open or passing by the close parking space to free it for someone in greater need of it than myself, might be enough to help others feel God’s mercy through me. Connecting the human with the divine.
Won’t you join me in seeking to be a vessel of His mercy today?
In Heartfelt Joy,
Lynne Brennan