Daily Gospel Reflection for July 8, 2018 - 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Today's Gospel: Mark 6:1-6 - 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Several years ago my husband and I, along with our youngest daughter, decided to move to Washington State. Having never lived outside Pennsylvania and never visited the area we moved to, the GPS in my car was invaluable. It guided me to many places that I had never been, as long as I followed the directions it gave. When I didn’t, I ended up in the wrong place, made the wrong turn and in general did not do well. I would become frightened for fear that I would never find my way home again. My relationship with God is much like that GPS. If I stay close to Him, wake with Him in my heart and a prayer on my tongue, I am guided to where He wants me to be. But if I decide to go in my own direction, not turn to God to guide my path, I become lost and afraid. When I presume to know what God wants from me without talking to Him, the path becomes foggy and stale, as I stumble and make the same mistakes over and over again. The further the distance, the more I think I know, the vaguer and vaguer things become. Much like Jesus’ family in the reading, He is not able to help me until I acknowledge his grace and power in my life. Until I see the light and love He offers instead of the darkness and hate of the world I will flounder, become fearful and lose my way. My acknowledgement of God's guidance, and my embracing His love and grace, will lead to my salvation. I don’t want Him to be amazed at my unbelief, but to reward my belief with healing and love.

Ponder:

Is God my GPS or do I rely on my own flawed GPS to find my way in this world?

Pray:

Lord Jesus, with Your help, may I persevere on my journey, so that You won't be amazed at my unbelief, but ready to reward my faith with Your love and grace. Amen.

Copyright 2018 Christina Weigand Christina Weigand is a writer, wife, and mother of four as well as Nana to four. She lives with her husband and youngest daughter in Pennsylvania. She has published young adult and middle grade fantasy novels along with a woman’s Bible study. Through her writing she strives to share the love and mercy God has for all His children. Receive CatholicMom.com newsletters in your inbox, including the Daily Gospel Reflection each morning! * indicates required