Daily Gospel Reflection for September 26, 2022

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

Reflection by Leslie Lynch

Today's Gospel: Luke 9:46-50

Today’s reading is a study in “us versus them.” We, the “in” group, bicker among ourselves as to which of us is the greatest. Who’s the strongest leader at work, the best homeschooler, the most active (and sacrificial) volunteer?

Never mind all our little turf wars. Protestant versus Catholic. Those Catholics who hold fast to the Latin Mass versus those embracing the social justice teachings of Pope Francis. (Not that one excludes the other, but we tend to pitch our tent in a specific camp, forgetting the meaning of “catholic” with a small C.)

What a waste of energy and time!

Jesus calls His disciples to humility and service, whether the service is “flashy,” as in casting out demons, or invisible, as in caring for the helpless among us.

He gently shows us His way, a way of true humility. Service, not status. Sacrifice, not esteem.

In response, discernment must hum constantly beneath our daily activities. What is my motivation for involvement in this ministry, this event, this opportunity? Is there anything God is calling me to set aside for a time? Or forever? Is He asking me to do something new? (If yes, it’s probably somewhat outside my comfort zone!) What “God appointments” will He set before me today, and will my eyes be open to them?

God and I are much better served if I spend time in prayer and quiet (Adoration, when possible) so that I can hear His voice. His call for me is unique, just as is His call for everyone else. The more I focus on Jesus and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance, the better I am equipped to do the Father's will for me, at this time and in this place.

Leave the judging to Him. It’s really so much easier.

Ponder:

Do I spend my energy on competition with others or contemplation of God’s will for me?

Pray:

Jesus, help me focus on You, and what You have called me to do as Your disciple. God formed me as a unique individual; help me accomplish the Father’s will for me.

Click to tweet:
The more I focus on Jesus and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance, the better I am equipped to do the Father’s will for me, at this time and in this place. #dailygospel

Copyright 2022 Leslie Lynch

Leslie Lynch lives near Louisville, Kentucky, with her husband and a rescued, feral-turned-sweetheart cat. She’s written three full-length novels: Hijacked, Unholy Bonds, and Opal’s Jubilee; and two novellas: Christmas Hope and Christmas Grace. She is an occasional contributor to the Archdiocese of Indianapolis’s newspaper, The Criterion, and holds an MFA in Writing from Spalding University. Learn more at www.leslielynch.com.