Daily Reflection for Monday, September 12, 2022
Peace and Blessings, Friends, and Parishioners,
We encourage you to reflect on Monday’s readings at this link:
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/091222.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33
Responsorial: Psalm 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 17
Gospel: Luke: 7:1-10
Our reflection on Monday’s readings:
“He deserves to have you do this for him, for he loves our nation and he built this synagogue for us.” Luke 7:4
The above sentence is universal. It applied during Jesus’ time as it does throughout history, everywhere in the world. Respect, honor, admiration. Deserving gratitude and preferential treatment.
My friend’s father was a proud, patriotic, decorated French miliary officer who distinguished himself during WWII. Wearing his uniform, he was saluted by French civilians and military alike. It was expected. He was respected. His words counted. I didn’t have to speak the language to understand the difference he was given in public and private. He stood proud in all situations even in the U.S. where no one knew him. He knew his worth.
It is understandable that the Jewish elders strongly urged Jesus to do as the centurion requested “for he loves our nation and built our synagogue.” They believed he was owed respect and gratitude for his position, wealth, and generosity. Maybe they were a bit fearful considering the centurion was a part of enemy forces who had the power and often made life miserable for the Jewish people.
Did Jesus balk at the urging to show special regard for this centurion? No. He quietly headed to the centurion’s home with the same love, respect and care he showed for lepers, prostitutes, children, and servants.
Jesus demonstrates in this scripture account that his love is for all. The powerful wealthy and marginalized poor. The old and young, The healthy and sick. The strong and weak. Jesus loves and respects us all wherever we are on the spectrum, at any time in life and in any situation. He quietly comes at our request, whether we deserve it or not.
The Centurion, with his wealth and power, is humbled by the realization of Jesus coming to his home. We are also humbled by knowing that Jesus answers our call and comes into the earthly home of our souls through the Eucharist.
“Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof.”
Humbleness before the Lord is universal and his love for us is infinite.
Blessings to you,
Ruth Mytty