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Today's Readings
In today’s Gospel, Jesus is driving the demon out of a man who was mute. The crowds were amazed at Jesus’ healing power, however some of His critics believed He was only able to do this through the power of Beelzebub, “prince of demons”. Why would they think that? We know Jesus healed the sick, comforted those mourning, and taught about love for God and one another. Could it be His critics were afraid of Him? Maybe they were afraid He was gaining too much popularity with the people and they would lose their own power. It seemed the Pharisees weren’t willing to give Jesus a chance. Right from the beginning they seemed afraid of Him, finding any chance they could to criticize Him. Did they really believe He was working with evil? Or were they jealous of Him and trying to ruin Him in the eyes of the believers.
This reading had me thinking about the people in my life I struggle with. What is it they do or don’t do that triggers a negative reaction in me? Whether it is someone who simply gets on our nerves or someone who has hurt or ignored or criticized us, it’s important to remember Jesus wants us to be open and loving with others--- ALL others! We must follow in His footsteps, even when it is difficult or challenging. This is not always an easy call, but we must pray for each other.
Jesus has taught us to support each other with prayer, asking Him to give us the grace we need when we see someone that we would prefer not to encounter. We have all heard the phrase, “What would Jesus do?” Today if we get angry or irritated with someone, let’s take a moment to stop and breathe in the presence of Jesus and allow Him to help us respond with love and kindness. Remember, a kingdom that is divided against itself cannot stand, and Jesus at the center of the Kingdom of God.
Thank you God, for your unending love.
Help me to recognize the blessings in my life
as much as the trials to see how much You adore me.
Dina Tashman is the school nurse at St. Stephen-St. Edward School on Tuesdays and Thursdays. She and her family have been parishioners at St. Stephens since 2006. Dina and her husband, Stuart, together are raising two children who currently attend John S. Burke Catholic High School and are St. Stephen-St. Edward School alumni.