Today's Gospel: Luke 10:17-24 As I read this passage, I imagined the excitement that the disciples might have felt with the power that Jesus had given them. Did they feel important as they walked from town to town, as they healed the sick and cast out demons? It’s easy to understand the disciples’ reaction to their new-found power. How often do we get caught up in the things that we’ve accomplished in the name of Jesus? What happens when we get a promotion, a raise at our job, win an award, or someone pays us a well-intended compliment, “You’re an inspiration.” Do we revel in the spotlight? Do we let pride enter our hearts or do we react as Jesus taught us? Jesus gave us a model to follow. Scripture tells us that He experienced every human emotion that we feel. He understands the temptation to beam with the accolades that our culture offers to us. He turned from the temptation and chose to react with gratitude. He recognized the revelations that He and the disciples received came from God, the Father. Jesus rejoiced, not only in the fact that the disciples cast out demons in His name, but also in the grace they received to accomplish this. He offered thanks to God and rejoiced. “However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:20 This passage reminds me to focus on the goal of eternity in heaven in a spirit of gratitude. The gifts that I’ve been given are for His purpose, to further His kingdom. They are for God’s glory, not mine.

Ponder:

When good things happen to me, do I revel in the moment or give thanks to the Father?

Pray:

Thank you, Lord for the grace you give me to focus on You. May all I do reflect Your glory.
Copyright 2018 Virginia Pillars Virginia Pillars, author of the award-winning memoir, Broken Brain, Fortified Faith: Lessons of Hope Through a Child’s Mental Illness, writes and speaks about the effects of mental illness on families. She contributed to Grief Diaries Poetry, Prose & More. Virginia volunteers for the National Alliance on Mental Illness as an educator/support group leader. She blogs at www.virginiapillars.com. Receive CatholicMom.com newsletters in your inbox, including the Daily Gospel Reflection each morning! * indicates required
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Gospel Reflections Team

Gospel Reflections Team

Our Gospel Reflections Team is comprised of over 115 volunteers. We invite you to join us daily to reflect upon the Liturgy of the Word and thank our volunteers for sharing their gifts.