Greetings on this the Monday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: James 1:1-11; Psalm 119:67, 68, 71, 72, 75, 76; Mark 8:11-13
Summary
In our first reading and gospel portion today, a singular message: Ask in faith and receive. It doesn’t have to be perfect faith (nobody is perfect). But basic faith, faith in the one who created us will see us through the good and the bad of life. The Lord already had healed many on different occasions and multiplied the bread for the 4,000. Isn’t that sign enough?
But the sign they were seeking is the sign that Jesus is authorized to teach and heal by anointing from the Lord. The Pharisees were certain of their source of power – the religious hierarchy – they weren’t certain of Jesus’.
But if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it. But he should ask in faith, not doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed about by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord, since he is a man of two minds, unstable in all his ways. The Pharisees came forward and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. He sighed from the depth of his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Amen, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.” (Jm 1:5-8; Mk 8:11-12).
These men did not keep faith and so wanted a sign of faith they themselves do not recognize. They asked for proof they did not need, and missed what truly mattered.
Having answered them, Jesus left. The leaving is an invitation. Follow me and learn more, without a word spoken. They remained in the faithlessness of their appointments. They missed the faithfulness of a person.
Reflection
Then he left them, got into the boat again, and went off to the other shore (Mk 8:13).
Personal Reflection
Lord, may I approach you in faith. Trusting your actions are reflections of divine love. And, may I get in the boat with you and come to the other side.
Where he goes, so go I.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021626.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry