Job 3:1-3, 11-17, 20-23; Psalm 88; Luke 9:51-56
Luke 9:51-56 demonstrates the animosity that existed between Jews and Samaritans at the time of Jesus. The Lord’s approach, however, is very different from the disciples’ approach. When the disciples were rejected by the Samaritan community, they were incensed and sought retaliation. Jesus answered no. What makes us feel like we deserve to be vindicated? Do we occasionally feel the need to revenge? Let us bring our emotions before the Lord and ask him to grant us serenity of heart. If the Lord is slow to anger, it will be dangerous for us to be quick to anger.
In the first reading, owing to his unfortunate circumstances Job broke the silence and cursed the day of his birth. He said: “May the day perish when I was born, and the night that told of a boy conceived. Why did I not die new-born, not perish as I left the womb? Why were there two knees to receive me, two breasts for me to suck? Had there not been, I should now be lying in peace…” Even though he cursed the day he was born, he did not curse God. We must learn to manage our emotions and temperaments especially when we go through unfortunate situations.
The gospel tells us that Jesus made a determined trip to Jerusalem in order to suffer and die for us. Beloved, when tragedy befalls us, we are exhorted not grumble against God, but rather to see it as an opportunity to demonstrate our love and trust for God. God may allow certain things in order for us to fulfill our purpose in life. He allowed Joseph imprisonment to rescue his people from famine. Learn to accept burdens from God.
St. Vincent de Paul, pray for us.
LET US PRAY
Lord Jesus, help us in overcoming our feelings of rage and desire for retaliation against individuals or groups with whom we have unresolved issues. Teach us to place our feelings before you in prayer and become more like you in our attitudes. Amen.
