Daily Reflection for Friday, September 20, 2019
| Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners, We encourage you to reflect on Friday’s readings at this link: www.usccb.org/bible/readings/092019.cfm If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are: First Reading: 1 Timothy 6:2-12 Responsorial: Psalm 49:6-10, 17-20 Gospel: Luke 8:1-3 Our reflection on Friday’s readings: “… who provided for them out of their resources.” Luke 8:3 What have I done for Jesus lately? In my busy, frequently stress-filled days, I pray often in gratitude, for strength and forgiveness, and for the intentions of others. I cannot, however, think of a time when I intentionally and prayerfully asked, “Jesus, what can I do for You?” Today’s gospel is short but rich. Jesus and His apostles have begun their ministry in earnest. As they journey through towns and villages, they are accompanied by Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and many other women. Men at this time were discouraged from speaking to women in public. These women not only travelled with Jesus and the Twelve, but also supported them through their own means. These remarkable trailblazing, brave, and faithful women remind me of my strong Quaker grandmother. When I was young, if we complained about having to get up early for church, she would snap, “You sit and think about all the things God has done for you this week and then tell me you can’t spend an hour worshipping Him.” While my initial call to faith was rooted in guilt and responsibility to “pay for my blessings,” it has been my love and devotion to Christ that sustain my relationship with Him. Today I am called to examine how my time, talent, and treasure are being spent. There are things I do in Christ’s name, but out of a sense of responsibility and obligation. Some things I do mindlessly, without intentionally considering how they might be used to proclaim the good news. Mary, Joanna, Susanna, and many others inspire me to consider what resources I have to offer Jesus and those who follow Him. Prayerfully consider what you might offer to Jesus—with no strings attached. What gift might you give to Him freely, not out of a sense of duty or because you seek praise or accolades, but simply because you love Him and long to be near Him? May God’s Peace Be With You, Trina Wurst |