Gospel Reading: Luke 9:51-62
Now as the time drew near for him to be taken up to heaven, he resolutely took the road for Jerusalem and sent messengers ahead of him. These set out, and they went into a Samaritan village to prepare for him, but the people would not receive him because he was making his way to Jerusalem. Seeing this, the disciples James and John said, “Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to burn them up?” But he turned and rebuked them, and they went off to another village. As they travelled along, they met a man on the road who said to them, “I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus answered, Foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” Another to whom he said, “follow me,” replied, “Let me go and bury my father first.” But he answered, “Leave the dead to bury their dead; your duty is to go and spread the news of the kingdom of God.” Another said, I will follow you sir, but first let me go and say goodbye to my people at home.” Jesus said to him, “Once the hand is laid to the plough, no one who looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”
GUIDELINES TO HELP US TO MEDITATE ON THE PASSAGE SO AS TO RECOGNIZE AND CELEBRATE GOD’S PRESENCE AND ACTIVITY IN OUR LIVES AND WORLD TODAY.
Guidelines for Meditation. From the perspective of Jesus:
When have you seen or when have you been someone with that kind of zeal and enthusiasm for a worthy cause -Reconciliation and peace, Climate change, Equality and Inclusion, Truth and justice, the Message of Jesus – the call was urgent and all-consuming? Lord, thank you for calling us to commit ourselves to the burning issues of our time. May we continue to give our all in doing your work.
Remember the champions of non-violence in international, local or domestic affairs who have courageously resisted the temptation to retaliate and seek revenge “To call down fire on them and burn them up” and instead have shown us another way to respond with brave endurance, understanding and forgiveness, generous compassion and goodwill. Lord we thank you for all who work for healing and reconciliation. Forgive us for attitudes and actions that curse and destroy. Help us all to work together for a lasting peace in our country.
From the perspective of the disciples:
Can you recall a situation where you yourself, or someone close to you, suffered a painful rejection -Betrayal, injustice, abuse or humiliation – igniting a rage that was intent on cursing and destroying the person or people who had wronged you? We Remember with gratitude the “Jesus Person” who helped to calm our anger and saved us from embarking on a path of destruction. When have you been, or when have you seen, someone coming to terms with the implications and demands of a serious life commitment in a relationship, Career choice, Morals or Values? We remember with gratitude the “Jesus People” who inspired us by their dedication and commitment.