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


Reflection by Virginia Pillars

Today's Gospel: Matthew 12:46-50

I’m an empty nester. For the third time. First, my four children grew to adulthood and left home. Next, after I relished the role of grandparent-babysitter for years, my grandchildren no longer required my full-time attention. Then, I welcomed a nephew into our household so he could finish high school where he and his parents desired. He, too, left the nest. If I’m honest, sometimes I battle the feelings of an empty nester. Everyone is busy living their own lives. What’s my role in life? Do I matter? What can I do when I feel lonely and unimportant?

Today’s Gospel passage shifts these unwanted notions into a new perspective with Jesus’ answer about his relatives outside.Who is my brother, sister, mother? (Matthew 12:50) Jesus asked his disciples, and all of us, to ponder this.

Our pastor often reminds us during his homilies to put ourselves in the Gospel scene. When I do, I hear Jesus ask me  who is your child, grandchild, nephew, mother, brother, or sister?

The clerk at the store. The young person stocking shelves. The delivery driver with my package. The people I meet throughout each day. The friends I have on social media. Everyone. The person in need of a compassionate ear. Those who ask for prayers.

We are all adopted children of God. Scripture tells us, "He destined us for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, in accord with the favor of his will." (Ephesians 1:5)

"And I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.” (2 Corinthians 6:18) Tucking these verses in my heart, I push aside the empty nester feelings trying to pierce my armor from the Lord. My family is whoever needs His touch.

 

Ponder:

 

Who needs a listening ear, supportive shoulder, or prayers as I go about my day?

 

Pray:

Lord, thank You for allowing me to be part of Your family. Help me to include Your people in mine.

 


Click to tweet:
I can counteract the negative feelings of an empty nester by reaching out to those in need.
#dailygospel

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