A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Genesis 37:25-36

What profit is it if we destroy another person and dishonor them? A question similar to this is what Judah asked his brothers who were filled with jealousy and hate towards Joseph. Because Joseph was their brother - their very own flesh and blood - they decided not to lay their hands on him but instead sell Joseph to the Ishmaelites. In what ways have we attempted to profit off of the dehumanizing of someone else? Have we been the victim of someone elses dirty schemes to earn a buck off of our misforture? When the brothers sold Joseph to the Midianite traders, they failed to realize that they were exchanging eternal treasure for temporal riches. In what ways have we made a bad deal by trading away God’s blessings in exchange for worldly pleasures? It is interesting to note that once the brothers had committed this heinous crime they had to find a way to hide their sin. The Bible says that they took Joseph's robe, slaughtered a goat, and dipped the robe in the blood. They had the long robe with sleeves taken to their father. They made it appear as if a wild animal had devoured Joseph and torn him to pieces. What lies are we constantly creating to cover up our sinful thoughts, words and deeds?


1 Corinthians 2:1-13

There are some who proclaim the mystery of God in lofty words. They pride themselves on others not being able to understand or comprehend them. Yet, there are others who, in weakness and in fear, proclaim the simple but profound message of Jesus Christ. Are we arrogant or humble in how we communicate our Christian faith to the world? Those who are arrogant depend solely on the human knowledge they have worked to amass. Those who are humble lean upon the wisdom of God which is perceived by faith. If we are wise, then we will see the spiritual image of God in others and will not oppress them. Wisdom helps us see what no eye has seen, hear what no ear has heard, and understand what no heart has understood. It is the Spirit of God that reveals God’s mysteries to us. A human being may know what is truly human but only a spiritual being can know what is truly spiritual. Therefore, let us humble ourselves and live a life directed by the spirit.


Mark 1:29-45

When we see others in crisis, do we take them by the hand and lift them up? This is what Jesus did for Simon’s mother-in-law who was in bed with a fever and for the leper who wanted to be made clean. When the crisis was averted, Simon’s mother-in-law chose to serve her community while the leper on the other hand created a situation where Jesus could no longer go into a town openly. How have we responded to the love and care that we have received from others? Do we pay it forward like Simon’s mother-in-law? Or, like the leper, do we forget what it felt like to be in crisis as we resume our own selfish agendas?


To God be the glory now and forever. Amen.

Fr. Thomas+



Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings Deuteronomy 1:1-18 This passage contains the words that Moses spoke to all Israel as they were camped on the great plains of Moab, able to see across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. This was the land of Canaan that God promised them but which they had not occupied for 400 years. This passage reminds us to be faithful and exhorts us to be prepared even then life is frustrating and confusing. God has a plan and purpose for our life even if we do not understand God’s ways. This passage also reveals Moses’ leadership style to us. He was willing to distribute the responsibility of leadership to others but did so only with the support of the people. It was not a dictatorship; it was a democracy. Each tribe was given freedom to choose individuals who were wise, discerning, and reputable among them to be their leaders. In what ways have we entrusted the responsibility of leadership to others? How have we failed to identify small group leaders ...
Read more
Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings Ezekiel 4:1-17 This passage portrays a vivid and symbolic depiction of the prophet's obedience to God's commands. As we reflect on these verses, we are struck by the profound message of commitment and sacrifice. Through the actions of building a miniature model of Jerusalem's siege and lying on his side for an extended period, Ezekiel demonstrates his unwavering faith and willingness to bear the burdens of his people. This passage reminds us of the importance of obedience to God's calling, even when it requires discomfort or unconventional actions. It encourages us to ponder how we can wholeheartedly serve and fulfill God's purposes, regardless of the challenges that may arise. Which of God’s commands is hardest for you to follow and why? Describe a recent experience where you modeled commitment and sacrifice to a cause bigger than yourself. Does your faith ever waver? Why or why not? Have you ever found obedience to God to ...
Read more
Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings 2 Samuel 17:24-18:8 In this passage, the narrative unfolds with King David in a time of crisis. His trusted counselor Ahithophel betrayed him, siding with Absalom. Amidst the chaos, David's faith in God remained unwavering. His plea for divine guidance led to wise counsel from Hushai, which countered Ahithophel's advice. David's reliance on God's direction prevailed, highlighting the importance of seeking God's will even in dire circumstances. This passage underscores that no scheme against God's chosen can prosper when trust in His providence prevails. It's a reminder to steadfastly seek God's guidance in all decisions. Questions: How did David react to Ahithophel's betrayal? How do you typically respond to betrayal? Why did Hushai's counsel to Absalom prove pivotal? Name one person who you turn to for wise counsel? How does this passage reveal David's unwavering faith during crisis? Has you faith ev...
Read more