First Reading: 1Cor 3:1-9; Psalm: 33. R. v. 12a; Gospel: Lk 4:38-44

DIVINE DECISION

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

No one sees something good and let it go. The wonderful works of Jesus has really transformed and amazed the people that they no longer wanted him to leave. When Jesus cured Peter’s mother-in-law of her fever, the news went round and the people gathered all their sick and those with different kinds of diseases and brought them before Jesus. Jesus healed them and cured those possessed by demons.

After all these cures, Jesus went to a lonely place to pray. It was after praying that the people asked Jesus to stay with them. Because they felt that if Jesus remained with them, there will be no place for sickness, suffering and pain in their lives. This was a selfish demand. Having prayed to the Father, Jesus made known to these people his Father’s will which was that he must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to other cities.

Jesus teaches us several lessons from this gospel. The first is that when good things come our way, we should always remember to make way for others to enjoy the same blessings we have received. Another lesson is that life will not always turn out the way we want it but the way God wants it. The reason why the people wanted Jesus to stay permanently with them was because they believed he will take care of all their needs. Of course God will do the needful but not always as we want it. Not all that we demand from God will be granted us. Finally, Jesus is also telling us today that it is in prayer that we make right decisions.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, help us to find peace in your will for us. Amen.