What Will You Choose? May 18
Today’s Readings - Psalm 89:1-18; Joshua 1:1-9; Eph. 3:1-13; Matt. 8:5-17
In today’s gospel reading from Matthew, we hear two examples of Jesus healing those in need. There are many examples in the bible of Jesus’ healing acts, of his being present. However, we don’t know about the times when he needed to refuse to heal people, there must have been occasions when this occurred. There had to be times when he was too pressed for time, too tired or when there were so many people, he simply couldn’t get to them all.
As someone who has been in two serving vocations, social work and the priesthood, both in which I am called on to help, to be present, to listen, to serve, all on a daily basis, I know there are days when I feel as though I can’t emotionally or physically handle one more need, one more request. That may sound weak or selfish, but it’s true. I’ve also tried to realize that when I get overstretched or try to be too much for too many, I pay the price and those who I work and live with do as well. To be honest, anyone comes within my orbit is apt to pay the price!
Jesus had to feel this way at times. He was after all human just like us, and of course there was that divine side of him too. So, he did have that going for him, but he was still susceptible to his human needs and weaknesses. Need for time alone, for fulfilling relationships, for being loved as well as loving others, all of which we share with him.
In a sermon Bp. Mariann Budde delivered in 2020, entitled, “Time to be of a New Mind: Healers,” she writes, our first responsibility must be to ourselves, “for the one life with which we have been uniquely entrusted.” No one else can live our lives for us, . . .we can and must choose our response to life.” She goes on to say that with each new day we are faced with the choice of how we will show up for one another, how will we follow Christ, how will we be true to the vows we made at our baptism, how will we care for those in need, for ourselves, for those we love.
Discerning how and where God is calling us, what God is calling us to do is easier said than done. However, if we’re patient, the Holy Spirit will speak, will guide us in and through the maze of life’s choices, pitfalls, and victories. Be patient and remember Jesus’ words to the disciples, “I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Faithfully,
Sally+
Questions for Reflection and Challenge - What are some choices you have faced? Did you feel good about your decisions? If you had the chance to go back and do it again, would you make the same choice or would you do something different?