Saturday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time
This week has been intense. We have been called to radically follow Christ, letting even good things take second stage to following him. We have been warned that we can be punished because of our following after the world, the natural consequence of failing to follow Christ. We have had two giants of the faith shown to us as models of men who gave their lives for the sake of Christ. We were taught to listen for true prophets, not false ones, by the fruit of their words. Lastly, we were challenged to take a serious look at our lives. Am I truly a follower of Christ? Have I lived up to that challenge? This may leave us feeling defeated or overwhelmed.
Today’s first reading provides a beautiful and touching end to this week. The reading tells us that in the midst of our hurts and worries, God will come to heal us and support us. The walls will be fixed, enemies defeated, and new gardens that provide for our needs replanted.
The Christian life demands everything from us, but Christ is willing to give us his life for our support and healing. Take today’s promise as a pledge of God’s help and care for us, that what ails us today will become our victory tomorrow because Christ is always with us.
Reflection by Fr. Etienne Huard, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections