Daily Reflection for Wednesday, November 24, 2021
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners,
We encourage you to reflect on Wednesday’s readings at this link:
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/112421.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Daniel 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28
Responsorial: Daniel 3:62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67
Gospel: Luke 21:12-19
Our reflection on Wednesday’s readings:
By your perseverance you will secure your lives. Luke 21:19
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells his followers to stay silent.
He tells the disciples they will be seized, thrown into prison, persecuted, and put to death for their faith and preaching. They will be required to give testimony but are not to prepare their defense ahead of time nor speak on their own behalf. They will be given the wisdom and words when the time comes. The message - keep quiet, both mentally and physically, until the Lord provides the words. It is not an easy task in any situation. Much trust is required.
This is good advice for all of us. Words matter, especially in important situations. We should not speak before taking it to God and asking that His words be spoken and heard, not ours.
It does not require a major persecution or potential death sentence to ask for God’s words. It is valuable when communicating with loved ones, family members, friends and talking with children. In addition to praying that God will touch others through me, I ask that when listening to others talk, I hear what Jesus wants me to understand. Often it takes time.
Last year, a beloved family member said some painful words to Al and me. We left stunned and heartbroken. It would take time, a lot of prayer, and soul searching.
Now, a year later, I had a chance to speak with him. After mentioning that we took to heart his words, he quickly stated that he should have chosen better words. Without a thought, I replied, “We love you and know you love us. We believe your intent was good and that is what we are going with.”
Where did those words come from? I certainly didn’t plan those words. I didn’t even understand the truth in those words until after they were spoken.
We were both healed by the blessing in those words. No more discussion was needed.
I love it when God does that.
Blessings to you,
Ruth Mytty