Daily Reflection for Wednesday, November 13, 2019
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners,
We encourage you to reflect on Wednesday’s readings at this link:
http://usccb.org/bible/readings/111319.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Wisdom 6: 1-11
Responsorial: Psalm 82: 3-4, 6-7
Gospel: Luke 17: 11-19
Our reflection on Wednesday’s readings:
“Give ear, you who have power over multitudes and lord it over throngs of people. . . For those in power, a great scrutiny impends. To you, therefore, are my words addressed.” Wisdom 6: 2, 8, 9a
It’s clear in the first reading that we have responsibilities. Responsibilities to others, to those who depend on us, and responsibility to the earth. We might not be political leaders, priests, or kings, but we are teachers, health care workers, executives, volunteers, employers, parents, grandparents and friends.
Most of us have power over others in some way. At the very least, we influence the lives of others every day. We are not truly powerless and vulnerable like many in the world. There are certainly times in life when health is fragile or grief overwhelming, but even in those situations, we can easily impact another’s day with a smile and kindness or a scowl and rudeness. We are responsible for our actions.
We have been gifted with children, grandchildren, elderly parents, friends and relatives. Many are in physical or emotional pain and need. How do we respond?
We are leaders in our churches, organizations, and at work. Situations get hectic and confusing at times. People look to us for guidance, fairness, justice, support. Yes, we have the power to make or break someone’s day.
I believe this scripture speaks to us, because we do have personal power, but it shouts a warning to those with real political, financial, corporate, national and worldly power. Their decisions often have a disastrous impact on the poor and vulnerable. Their actions can save or destroy lives financially and literally. They have been given great power and a great scrutiny awaits them.
May God bless all of us, the powerful and the weak, with hearts of love and compassion, wisdom to discern truth, courage to act justly, and the will to follow Jesus’ teachings.
Ruth Mytty