A REFLECTION ON THE DAILY OFFICE READINGS

Genesis 31:25-50

Laban felt strongly that someone had robbed him, and he accused Jacob of doing so. However, Jacob vehemently denied stealing anything. Little did Laban and Jacob know, Rachel, Laban’s own daughter and the wife of Jacob, had stolen property from Laban without the knowledge of Laban or Jacob. Laban knew it was within his power to do Jacob harm but Laban chose not to do so. Their loving relationship of twenty years could have easily gone by the wayside if they had let their egos dictate their behavior but both Laban and Jacob found a way to reconcile their differences. What misunderstandings have led to a breakdown in relationship between us and someone we care about? How might the reconciliation model of Laban and Jacob guide us in moving past our egos and into a healthier way of relating with one another?

1 John 2:12-17

From the beginning of time, the name of Jesus has conquered evil. In the name of Jesus our sins our forgiven. In Jesus we are strong and the word of God abides in us. Therefore, let us not love the world or the things in the world - the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, the pride in riches. Rather, let us love Jesus. Those who chase the desires of the world will perish but those who seek the will of God shall live forever. 

John 10:1-18

How do we engage one another? Are we crooked and devious in hopes of satisfying our selfish desires? Are we straight and sincere as we look to meet the needs of others before our own? This passage portrays Jesus in two ways: 1) as the gate of the sheep, and 2) as the good shepherd. In this world, there are good shepherds and there are thieves. The good shepherd lays their life down for the sheep. The thief comes only to kill and destroy the sheep. All of us naturally desire to follow the voice of God - the creation heeds the voice of the creator. When those around us hear us speak, do they hear the voice of God? Do we know each other by name and inspire one another in making good choices in life? As Christians, we are responsible for guiding others to Jesus for it is through Christ and in Christ that God’s sheep experience abundant life. What impact are we having on those around us?

To God be the glory now and forever. Amen.

Fr. Thomas+



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