Daily Gospel Reflection for October 30, 2020

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

Reflection by Colette Lafia

Today's Gospel: Luke 14:1-6

In this gospel, we are asked to reflect on our relationship between action and rest. Jesus invites us to deeply discern the question of when to rest and when to take compassionate action. The truth is, in our fast-paced world, it’s hard to rest or even slow down. Most of us have a daily to-do list that needs our attention, and slowing down isn’t easy. However, to live a spiritual life, we must learn to slow down, and become more present to how and where God is calling us to be a healing and compassionate presence.

I’m a part-time school librarian, and the other day, after the first graders checked out their books, I let the children draw whatever they wanted to, giving them time to relax and play. Then I walked around, enjoying the drawings and talking to the the boys and girls about what they created.

As I approached a curly blond-haired girl, who is usually very spunky, I noticed that she hovered over her paper. I knew her parents had recently separated, so I leaned in and asked her, “Are you okay?” She burst into tears and muttered, “I miss my daddy.” Together, we sat on the rug, and I reassured her that is was okay to have her feelings. In that moment, I was being called to be a compassionate presence to this child.

By learning to slow down and become more present to others, we can discern when action is required and when rest is needed, and to share in Jesus’s healing ministry in our own lives.

Ponder:

How are you being called to slow down and become more present to others?

Pray:

Holy One, teach me when to rest, and when to take action. Guide me to become a more compassionate presence to those around me.

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How are you being called to slow down and become more present to others? #dailygospel

Copyright 2020 Colette Lafia

Colette Lafia is a San Francisco based writer, spiritual director and retreat leader. She is the author of Comfort & Joy, and Seeking Surrender. Colette has a passion for sharing the spiritual journey with others and blogs about it at www.colettelafia.com.