22nd Sunday in Ordinary time, Year A Reflection on our readings Theme: A call to total self-surrender Two years ago, while out of the seminary for pastoral experience, I led a woman through a one-on-one process of education in the faith . When she announced in Church that she had decided to lead a dignified way of life as a Christian, she talked about the people who had influenced her. I thought she would mention my name, but she didn’t. I considered standing up to excuse myself so she would notice me, but I didnt!! Anyhow, I must admit that this experience really discouraged me and I felt like calling it quits. However, I sought consolation from the bible and on opening it that evening, my eyes got hold of the words ... deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me. Taking it to be a command from the Most High, I resolved to speak in His name even when my efforts were not recognized or even appreciated. In fact, am currently more zealous than I was in proclaiming His word. To crown it call, It dawned to me that this vocation, even amidst the discouraging moments, is irresistible and it is ever consoling. In our todays first reading , the prophet Jeremiah is in a state of interior crisis. Having preached the word of God to the inhabitants of Judah, his tireless efforts and sacrifice go unnoticed, and he becomes an object of laughter and mockery. Nevertheless, he makes it known that even though the word of God had brought him derision and reproach, it is his God-given mandate to proclaim it. It is vivid enough that for Jeremiah, nothing could deter him from proclaiming the word of God. The word of God had consumed him entirely. In today’s gospel passage , Jesus takes his disciples by surprise
Posted on: Sat, 30 Aug 2014 18:54:44 +0000
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