Scripture:
Deuteronomy 18:15-20
1 Corinthians 7:32-35
Mark 1:21-28
Reflection:
God promised to send a prophet like Moses to lead his people. He made it clear to those listening that when this prophet speaks God’s message, he will be blessed. But if the prophet goes away from the word of God and presumes to speak as a false prophet, he will have to answer for it. The prophets of the Old Testament paved the way for the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. The New Testament is filled with the accounts of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. Many people followed the messages told by the prophets and allowed the message to lead and guide them in becoming the good and holy people God created them to be.
Today we honor those men and women who act as prophets in our own time. Some have reached the status of notoriety and fame for their good works. Others work side by side with us each day and ask for nothing in return. I am thinking of colleagues who give of themselves daily so that the good news of Jesus becomes known by those who need to hear it. I am thinking of the many religious and ordained whom I call friend, who have challenged, affirmed and supported me over these past several decades in ministry. I am thinking of my parents and other family members and friends who worked and sacrificed so that I could experience a loving and generous God through each of them.
Take a moment this day to remember and thank God for those prophets that have crossed your path and have helped you to become the person you are today. If they are still in your life in some way, you may want to drop them a line, call or text them and say thanks for having the courage to accept the call of the prophet. Remember prophets are never without honor in their own time and space. Your gesture of gratitude may be that thread of hope that makes their day!
Theresa Secord is a Pastoral Associate at St. Agnes Parish, Louisville, Kentucky.