Readings:
Hosea 8: 4-7, 11-13
Matt 9: 32-38
Reflection:
Today’s short gospel begins as a demoniac, who could not speak, was brought to Jesus who drives out the demon. The crowds are amazed when the mute man spoke. But the Pharisees–looking on– accuse Jesus of being the prince of demons, using evil powers of demons, to cure the man.
Jesus then moves on, going around to all the towns and villages in the area, proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom. As he cures every disease and illness, Jesus is moved with pity for the crowd. He sees so many needs; so many are troubled and abandoned. They are like a sheep without a shepherd. Jesus calls His disciples to look, to see the abundant harvest, to REALLY see the needs of those people and asks them to pray that the ‘master of the harvest send more laborers for his harvest.’
As each of us enters this gospel today in prayer, we are invited to bring our life – as it is- to Jesus in this story – to be the one who is healed and now able to speak.
Have you ever experienced a time when you could not or would not give voice to your real thoughts or feelings to another? If so, take a moment to recall your experience… What were your feelings and why? (e.g… awe, fear of judgment, afraid to speak your truth or uncertainty about what you really think or feel…)
Take some time. Talk freely to Jesus about your experience. Then, be silent in his presence. Sense His love and compassion for you as expressed in this gospel.
What grace do you seek?
Now, you are able to speak freely and honestly. Where and to whom will you go to tell this story of Jesus… Now, as you really are… "You are sent to be laborers for this harvest."
Sister Marcella Fabing, CSJ, is on the staff at Christ the King Passionist Retreat Center, Citrus Heights, California.