3 October, 2023 | Tuesday of the Twenty-sixth Week in Ordinary Time

 Gospel Lk 9:51-56

Worrrying over rejection?

When the days for Jesus to be taken up were fulfilled,

he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem,

and he sent messengers ahead of him.

On the way they entered a Samaritan village

to prepare for his reception there,

but they would not welcome him

because the destination of his journey was Jerusalem.

When the disciples James and John saw this they asked,

"Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven

to consume them?"

Jesus turned and rebuked them,

and they journeyed to another village.

Reflections:

Jesus met rejection but he did not strike back nor did he permit his disciples to do so. He is gently telling us that true honour comes not from the opinions of others about us, but from the fact that we are loved and accepted by God. In our journey with Jesus through painful moments, we will find the strength in Jesus, to face the difficulties.  The disciples wanted to destroy the village that did not welcome them.  Jesus calls their attention to the teachings he had given them, to love their enemies and do good to those who hate them. They must now move on to offer the Gospel message to others, and   not be distracted by the obstacles on the way.

Activity : 

Ask from Jesus' heart of mercy and compassion, the grace to face rejections in  life .