Daily Reflection for Monday, October 25, 2021
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners,
We encourage you to reflect on Monday’s readings at this link:
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/102521.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Romans 8:12-17
Responsorial: Psalm 68:2 and 4, 6-7ab, 20-21
Gospel: Luke 13:10-17
Our reflection on Monday’s readings:
When he said this, all his adversaries were humiliated; and the whole crowd rejoiced at all the splendid deeds done by him. Luke 13:17.
In some other voluntary work, I am the Coordinator for a chapter of World Beyond War, a global organization, and a Co-chair for an alliance of peace and justice organizations.
So, I frequently give presentations on various aspects of ending war, slowing the increase in militarism, the harmful environmental and humanitarian impact of war, the need to change priorities, etc. During the discussion periods after the presentations, I am often challenged by someone who disagrees with me.
Of course, I think I am correct and the person challenging me is misguided. But often the best response, and most effective words evade me. Later, I find myself thinking about the response I wish I had said. “Why didn’t I think to say that?”
My goal in the conversation is not to humiliate. I want people to understand the price that war and militarism costs to God’s earth and people. Knowledge should impact opinions and viewpoints, and I want people to know the facts.
In today’s Gospel reading, the leader of the synagogue is challenging Jesus because on the Sabbath, he healed the woman of her infirmities. Jesus has the perfect response, reminding people that they untie their livestock from the manger and lead the animals to water on the Sabbath.
Then he reminds the leader of the synagogue, that the woman is also a child of Abraham,
whom Satan has bound for eighteen years now, ought she not to have been set free on the sabbath day from this bondage? Luke 13:16.
Maybe Jesus didn’t intend to humiliate his adversaries. He wanted to show them truth and love.
Jesus always has the right words, the perfect response. In my life, I need to listen to him and marvel in his deeds of love.
Peace and blessings,
Al Mytty