1st Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1b, 6 – 7, 10 – 13a
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23: 1-3a,3b-4, 5, 6
Second Reading: Ephesians 5: 8 – 14
Gospel: John 9: 1 – 41
Reflection: So often we take our senses for granted. A friend of mine was just struck with an illness that has left her deaf…I cannot imagine what a challenge it must be with that sense removed – hear the doorbell, listen to the wind, all the odd noises of our daily lives – music and song, a child’s laughter – hearing someone say “I love you!”. Yet she has hope that they will find a miracle cure and her hearing will be restored.
The readings focus on the sense of sight and all that it encompasses. How often do we judge someone on their appearance or clothing or the color of their skin. What a wonderful secret we are given to hear “man sees the appearance but the Lord looks into the heart”. To look beyond the external is a gift like looking into a crystal…there are so many facets of the human spirit that we can see if we just take the time to look.
Darkness and light are only for the seeing…but our humanity leads us into the darkness of the passive life. We are challenged to be “children of light”, to be awake and lead the flock. Many days the last thing you want to do is be the shepherd…but we are called to a higher sense. I believe social media is the best example of this that too often people tear things down instead of lifting them up. It’s much easier to see the negative than the positive. Do not take the easy way out by saying nothing…”fear no evil; for Jesus is at your side giving you courage”.
The miracle of the man born blind challenges us on so many levels…judgement, ignorance, faith, sinfulness and belief. Jesus cures a simple man, but the man is chastised for being cured on the Sabbath. Who among us is not deserving of a cure whatever day of the week it is? We are all sinners and to be forgiven of our sins is the greatest gift. This man sees the light and gives glory to God because he has been cured and his sight restored. Who among us has limited sight or no view whatsoever and is in need of a cure? If you believe then it is your duty to help others see…all the beauty around us, the richness of diversity, everything in God’s creation. “I do believe Lord”.
Prayer: God of light, help me to always be a sign of your light in a world that so often is dark. Let me reflect your love in everything I do and see the good you have put in every person. Let me be a shepherd to those who believe and expand the flock to bring the lost sheep home. Lord I do believe, help my unbelief!
Brother Philip Augustine Herte, OSF
(Thank you, Brother Philip, for contributing this week's reflection!)
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