Wednesday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Mass Readings

 

God Hears the Outcast

The story of Sarah casting out Hagar and her son Ishmael is a difficult one to hear. Sarah’s jealousy and fear lead her to demand that Abraham send Hagar and Ishmael away, not wanting them to share in her son Isaac’s inheritance. Yet, God tells Abraham, “Do not be distressed…I will make of [Ishmael] a great nation also, since he too is your offspring.” (Gen 21:12-13)

God does not abandon those whom the world casts out. In the wilderness, when all seems lost, the Lord hears the cry of the boy. The name Ishmael itself means “God hears.” Indeed, a well springs up. Life returns.

For the Journey:

Reflect on times in your life when you were unwanted, pushed aside, or felt abandoned. God is closest to those who have broken hearts. (Psalm 34:18) Did you experience consolation? Did a well of water appear, so to speak, did a friend or coworker reach out?

 

Reflection by Br. Luke Kral, OSB