Daily Reflection for Thursday, November 5, 2020
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners,
We encourage you to reflect on Thursday's readings at this link: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/110520.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Philippians 3:3-8A
Responsorial: Psalms 105:2-7
Gospel: Luke 15:1-10
Our reflection on Thursday’s readings:
“This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Luke 15:2
I am at awe how Jesus continues to show me how to speak truth. He is a master at truth telling. He has a way of getting others to speak truth, whether they are aware of this or not. The Gospel reading today starts with the Pharisees and scribes criticizing Jesus for welcoming sinners to dine with him. After reading this today, I wonder if the Pharisees and scribes realized that the words that they spoke are really describing them. Perhaps they are the sinners that Jesus constantly tries to welcome and invite to dine with Him.
There have been many times in my life’s journey where I would criticize others for the same fault within me. The criticism in some ways is the mirror that I too need to hold in front of me. By finding fault in others, it helps me avoid the internal work that I need to do for the same behavior that I have displayed myself.
I am a work in progress and there are many mirrors that I would rather hide so that I do not have to look at myself. Jesus gives me great hope in the Gospel today. He will always look for me. For I am the lost sheep, the misplaced coin, and the sinner he welcomes to dinner. He continues to invite and welcome me, until I fully let go of what has my grasp—a grasp that keeps me away from His love and grace.
May you know that Jesus holds the mirror and you at the same time,
Margarita Solis Deal