Daily Gospel Reflection for July 18, 2021 - 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Mark 6:30-34

When our children were young, I used to dream about the possibility of going off to a deserted place to rest a while like our Lord and His disciples. It seemed like all I did was empty myself physically, mentally, and emotionally for the sake of my family. It's not that I resented them - they were the center of my world and I loved them beyond measure. I was happy to give of myself for their sake. But as a limited human being, I'd become so drained that I felt like I had no more to give. I needed some respite.

During those times, I’d think about today’s Gospel passage, imagining myself climbing into the boat with Jesus and his apostles and floating off to a place of quiet and rest. I’d hold that image in my head and heart for as long as I could despite the noise and activity of my young family. Inevitably, it would be disrupted by a timer going off, a baby crying, or someone calling my name. Before I surrendered my vision to real life, I’d ask our Lord to spiritually take me into the boat with Him, soothe my exhausted spirit, and fill me with the peace and restfulness that He and His followers experienced that day on the Sea of Galilee. Soon, the heaviness would lift and I’d somehow be able to keep going. Jesus had answered my prayer.

Even though our children are older, I still find myself dreaming about the possibility of going off to a deserted place to rest. Jesus still is taking me spiritually into the boat with him and soothing my exhausted spirit. He still fills me with his peace and restfulness when I ask Him. His words, “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest awhile,” are meant for us all.

Ponder:

Where is my place of peace and restfulness?

Pray:

Jesus, help me to find peace and rest in You. Soothe my exhausted spirit and fill me with Your strength and grace.

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Jesus, help me to find peace and rest in You. Soothe my exhausted spirit and fill me with Your strength and grace. #dailygospel

Copyright 2021 Marge Steinhage Fenelon