Daily Reflections

Scripture:

1 John 5:5-13
Luke 5:12-16

Reflection:

My much younger friend recently vented about how overwhelming her life as a working parent can seem. I remember being the primary parent of three young children because my husband worked long hours and was often away. I truly loved each child and would willingly die for them, but some days I wanted to scream! I didn’t want to nurse the baby again, or comfort the toddler, or be constantly asked to play. I didn’t want to resolve one more dispute, or load whining children into the car to head to soccer practice and then basketball practice. I didn’t want to cook and clean up endless meals, wash sheets, clean floors, do laundry, run errands, and serve my family with every breath I took. Some days I just wanted to go for a walk by myself, read a book, call a friend without someone clinging to my legs, or even just go to the bathroom undisturbed!

How much greater the pressure on Jesus had to be! Imagine the crush of people vying for his attention, clinging to him, and begging him for very legitimate needs. Repeatedly, his compassionate heart reached out to heal, comfort, and include them, making sure that each one felt seen, heard, and loved. It’s no wonder he had to withdraw to deserted places to be by himself and pray! Even the son of God needed concentrated time with God for comfort, nurture, and strength to be effective in his service to others.

Why, then, do I think I can do it on my own? Why am I so quick to assume that something is wrong with me if I don’t feel sufficiently strong, wise, competent, or lovable to do it myself? Who taught me those lessons? It certainly wasn’t Jesus! He taught about the Godhead not as separate and independent beings, but as a union, a circle of ever-flowing love and sustenance between them. He relied on that love and sustenance, returning again and again to the Source. Why should I be different?

As we continue through the Christmas season, I resolve to let go of the world’s lessons of ideal self-contained competence and instead focus on Jesus’ invitation into the Divine flow of love. Even in this resolution, I know I will “fail”. But we never fail in God’s eyes, except when we don’t show up. So I will doing my best to continue my Advent practice of increased time for prayer, both in stillness and in the activities and necessary chores of my daily life. Will you join me?

May every breath of our lives be in service to God!

Amy Florian is a teacher and consultant working in Chicago.  For many years she has partnered with the Passionists.  Visit Amy’s website: http://www.corgenius.com/.