Today's Reflection
March 11, 2010
The Mysteries of Light
The Baptism in the Jordan
The Wedding at Cana
The Proclamation of the Kingdom of God
The Transfiguration
The Institution of the Eucharist
SERVICE IN THE CHURCH
Let us pray, that Christ will teach us how and why we are called to service in the church through the Mysteries of Light.
“Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.”
Matthew 3:15
JESUS was standing in line to be baptized by John. When it came time for Him to be baptized John said, “It is I who need baptism from you.” We are all in need of God’s graces to remain focused on the events in our lives that call us to be of service to those around us. We can sense that we are not worthy to become involved in a certain ministry, but Jesus reveals for us the gifts that are given us in order to render this service to which we are called. Like John, we are called to live sacred moments despite our feelings of unworthiness.
Jesus, we ask that You continue to bless us with a deeper understanding of those moments when we are called to live in humility as we answer the needs of our church.
II. THE WEDDING AT CANA
“Fill the jars with water.” John 2:7
JESUS in His relationship with His mother reveals for us the unique bond between a parent and child. Many times we are asked to do something that does not seem logical and we ask why. Jesus asks the waiter to fill the jars with water. Perhaps an odd request and one that the waiter would have preferred not to complete. We are perhaps asked by family members or coworkers to complete tasks that do not seem too practical or logical and would rather debate their relevance. Jesus, in this of His first miracles, reveals for us a trust level that comes as we reflect on our understanding of the call to serve God in our lives.
Lord Jesus, give us the grace to discern what is being asked of us at this moment.
III. THE PROCLAMATION OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD
“I say to you, rise, pick up your mat, and go home.” Mark 2:11
IN this story the house Jesus is in becomes very messy. As we grow closer to Jesus and we become more aware of the needs of those around us; our lives become complicated and so much more is demanded of us. This is true of the man whose house Jesus is in. Four people knew how important it was for their sick friend to see Jesus that they make a hole in the roof of the house. Jesus heals the man by forgiving his sins and making him physically sound again. When we allow Jesus into our homes, our lives become messy but so much more complete.
Jesus, may we always welcome You into our homes and be ready to serve those who desire to come close to you.
IV. THE TRANSFIGURATION
“They fell silent and did not at that time tell anyone what they had seen.” Luke 9:36
PETER, James and John went with Jesus to the mountaintop to pray. Their experience was one of great joy in that they were with Jesus in a sacred moment in life. Yet, after this experience, they were so moved by emotion that they could not speak. We, too, have moments when we find ourselves on the mountaintop and do not want to come down. These moments can be with good friends, coworkers or family members and we are so affected by this personal witness that our lives are changed forever.
Jesus, as we become aware of our experiences on the mountaintop, may we be motivated to radiate this love of God to all those whom we serve in our daily lives.
V. THE INSTITUTION OF THE EUCHARIST
“I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do.” John 13:15
WHEN we look at the example that Jesus has given us in the washing of the feet at the Last Supper, we are reminded of our need to witness the simplicity and humility of Jesus in everything that we do. There are events that may appear to be so small and insignificant that we forget that Jesus has given us an example to follow that touches every single aspect of our lives; from giving a simple cup of water to a thirsty person to being present with someone who is preparing to enter into eternal life. Whatever we do to the least of our friends we do to Jesus.
Lord Jesus, in our call to serve the needs of those around us, may we be mindful that we are doing everything for Your glory.