Daily Reflection for Monday, September 20, 2021
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners,
We encourage you to reflect on Monday’s readings at this link:
www.usccb.org/bible/readings/092021.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Ezra 1:1-6
Responsorial: Psalm 126:1-6
Gospel: Luke 8:16-18
Our reflection on Monday’s readings:
“No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light.” Luke 8:16
My faith was formed by the belief that the Inward Light exists within each of us. This Light is our direct awareness of God, and it allows us to know God’s will for us. My childhood vision of God wasn’t a bearded old man looking down from the clouds but a glowing orb inside of me. (E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial was released when I was 8, and his eerily glowing heart probably contributed to my imagining.)
“For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light.” Luke 8:17.
The Inward Light helps us to see the hidden will of God. When I still myself and connect to the divine presence dwelling in me, the way forward becomes known.
“To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.” Luke 8:18.
Fr. Carroll Stuhlmueller offers a helpful paraphrase to this confusing statement. “The one who has time to pray and reflect will be given more; the one who has not taken time to turn to God and friend for advice will lose even the little wisdom that he or she possesses.”
Lord, help me remember that you are part of me, and I am part of you. Whether I’m lost and hurting or full of joy and gratitude, YOU are glowing inside of me and everyone around me.
May God’s Peace Be with You,
Trina Wurst