Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.
Today's Gospel: Matthew 11:16-19
Not so long ago, I was having an important conversation with my children about sacrifice. I had noticed they were getting rather spoiled, complaining way too often about little inconveniences or aches and pains. They were constantly asking for new toys or groaning about things they wanted and couldn’t have.
I wanted to get them started slowly, so I suggested, “If you have a favorite fork you like to use, use a different one instead. Or if you really like a certain cereal, choose a different one.” Then I reminded them of the great sacrifice Jesus made on the cross and that was the reason we made a special effort to sacrifice on Fridays.
A couple days later, I went in to check on my oldest, who was just starting his lessons for the day (we homeschool) and found him flopped over the bed. I asked him what he was doing and he said, “I’m making a sacrifice by not doing school today.” Obviously, he missed my point and needed reorientation.
In much the same way, Juan Diego had to be redirected by the Blessed Virgin. He was timid, hesitant, and his uncle was sick, so he tried to avoid her. But she found him anyway, meeting him on the road. Her insistence convicted him to sacrifice his own needs and sense of duty to his uncle and obey without delay.
Let us follow Juan Diego’s example, then, and not be like the fickle children of this generation referred to in today’s Gospel, who complain no matter which way the dice fall. Let us rather, cling to wisdom, knowing that following God’s Will will never lead us astray.
Ponder:
How often do I choose what is easiest for me and brings me most pleasure? In what areas could I sacrifice more?
Pray:
Lord, teach me the true meaning of sacrifice and help me to always follow Your ways.
Copyright 2022 Tami Urcia
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