Zechariah 8:20-23; Psalm 87; Luke 9:51-56
‘To go to Jerusalem’ in Saint Luke’s gospel means to go to his passion. Today’s Gospel passage indicates the hostility between the Jews and the Samaritans. However, the disciples’ way of dealing with the issue and the Lord’s way differ. The disciples were furious when they were not received in the village of the Samaritans and wanted revenge. Jesus said no. Why do I seek to revenge? When I am rejected, how do I feel? I mine furious, angry and revengeful? Beloved, the first reading reminds us that many will go with us to the Lord’s city on account of the examples we portray. “In those days ten men from the nations of every tongue shall take hold of the robe of a Jew, saying, ‘Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.’” ( Zech. 8:23).
LET US PRAY
Lord Jesus, help us to overcome the feeling of anger and desire for revenge on persons or groups with whom we cannot resolve our differences. Teach us to place our feelings before you in prayer and become more like you in our attitudes. Amen.
