Daily Gospel Reflection for April 17, 2024

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

Today's Gospel: John 6:35-40

I am an anxious person and have a need to feel control over a situation to feel calm. But desiring control is not what Jesus is asking of us in today’s Gospel.

Jesus says,

“I came down from heaven not to do my own will but the will of the one who sent me.” John 6:38

He didn’t want control. And He doesn’t force us to follow Him. Instead, we are given a choice. And if we choose to follow Him, we will have eternal life!

This is a great concept to practice in motherhood. Anytime something does not go as planned, we should practice saying the prayer, “Not my will, but thy will be done.” Motherhood is a constant denial of self so that we can serve our children and family. It is filled with opportunities to practice the same humility Christ showed when sacrificing Himself on the cross.

Denial of self isn’t easy. But we are given an opportunity every time we go to Mass and receive the Holy Eucharist to humble ourselves before God, invite Jesus into ourselves, and then bring Him out into the world. When we receive the Eucharist, we become living tabernacles and bring the graces of God to others. It is another way that we say, “Not my will but thy will be done.” And where is the first place we can bring Him? Our homes. Our family. Our loved ones.

Today’s Gospel also brings us hope. Jesus said,

“I will not reject anyone who comes to me.” John 6:37

Even on the days when we are struggling to have humility and relinquish control, God wants us. He loves us and wants to share everlasting life with us. He brings hope to the hopeless and light even on the darkest days.

Ponder:

In what areas of your life do you need to let go of control and let God be in charge?

Pray:

Lord, You are welcome in all aspects of my life. Not my will, but Thy will be done.

Click to tweet:
When we receive the Eucharist, we become living tabernacles and bring the graces of God to others. It is another way that we say, “Not my will but thy will be done.” #DailyGospel

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