https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020824.cfm
Incognito?
It is refreshing to go on vacation to a place where no one knows you; we call it incognito. I love Blessed Sacrament Parish and School. However, I miss everyone after several days away. But it is always good to get home again and let out that sigh, “Ahh.” However, those first number of days always feel so good and refreshing.
Jesus felt the same way. He was human and needed His timeout, as we all do. So he went to a town where He thought no one knew Him. It was a district where Jews didn’t live. His “Ahh” didn’t last long when He entered a house and was spotted.
A mother pleaded with Jesus to cure her daughter of a demon. Jesus tried to dismiss her. Why? Because He wanted some rest? Or maybe because she was not from His people. Israel treated foreigners like nobodies. Hence, He refers to her as a dog. People weren’t ready to become one people of God. He left that to us, the Church.
Interruptions can be bothersome when they mess up our plans. Frustration can settle in a moment. How we handle that frustration is essential. I am learning to go with the flow.
Yahweh told Isaiah, “My ways are not your ways.” God has the whole picture in mind. I am happier when I let go of the frustration and let the Lord have His way. There is less tension and stress, and I can quickly slip back into what I was doing.
Gospel Challenge:
One last thing that helps immensely is learning that the quiet I seek isn’t in my surroundings. It is deep inside, in the Presence of the Lord. So, giving Him attention every day makes interruptions an adventure.
Love Your Neighbor:
Please join me in praying for all baptized Catholics to be faithful to Jesus in the Holy Mass every weekend. Hail Mary, full of grace…
Mother Mary, “I am yours now and forever. Through you and with you, I always want to belong completely to Jesus.” The Surrender Novena – InHeartland. https://inheartland.com/pages/the-surrender-novena
Peace be with you.
Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.
