A Deserted Place

Greetings on this the Wednesday of the First Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: 1 Samuel 3:1-10, 19-20; Psalm 40:2 and 5, 7-8a, 8b-9, 10; Mark 1:29-39

Summary

The LORD came and stood there, calling out as before: Samuel, Samuel! Samuel answered, “Speak, for your servant is listening.” My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord. I know them, and they follow me. (1 Sam 3:10, Jn 10:27).

Rising very early before dawn, he left and went off to a deserted place, where he prayed. Simon and those who were with him pursued him and on finding him said, “Everyone is looking for you.” He told them, “Let us go on to the nearby villages that I may preach there also. For this purpose have I come.” (Mk 1:35-38)

In the temple area as like Samuel and Eli, the Lord calls to us. In the deserted places, the Lord calls to us. There is always movement on our part. Eli was confused by the thrice calling (at first). Simon had to pursue Jesus and find him (by design). Was not the first prayer of Jesus… Jesus’ prayer is the song that teaches Simon how to find him.?

Reflection

The Lord finds us. We can be lost even in the temple area. Or we can be lost out in the desert. But he finds us.

Personal Reflection

This gospel reading means more to me than you can imagine. My life has been centered on mission journeys for a very long time. My heart is being pulled back to these remote and deserted places. Because the people need Jesus and Jesus is already there. And when we find Jesus, he puts us to work – side by side – for the purpose the Lord has come.

Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/011426.cfm

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry