Daily Gospel Reflection for March 27, 2017

Today’s Gospel: John 4:43-54

Wow! Jesus was busy. If you look at the the towns and districts mentioned you’ll see Jesus traveled about 150 miles, on foot, to spread his message. And that was just this one time. I can only imagine how many miles He covered in His lifetime. So, what does that have to do with the anticipated spiritual message of scripture and what does it mean to me, personally?

I’d say this passage is about how far Jesus would go to share His message of love, healing, and redemption, as well as familiarity breeding contempt. One could argue that traveling those distances at that time was the limit one could go on foot. Jesus went the limit to share Himself. Jesus wanted to be there for everyone. Miraculously, even those who did not see the signs and wonders believed in Him. Jesus’ efforts were bearing fruit. But despite the evidence many in His native place shunned Jesus and His message.

The message for me when I weave these threads together is that I see Jesus went (and will go) to the ends of the Earth to heal us with His loving compassion. I don’t necessarily have to see the healing. Sometimes it’s interior, sometimes it’s not in front of me but it is always there. What I do have to do is acknowledge His mercy. I also have to remember to ask for Jesus’ help as the royal official did. Jesus does not need to be present for us to “win”.

This scripture is also a warning for me to avoid complacency. I have to keep the awe of the magnificence of the Lord alive. There is always something new and a new height to reach in my relationship with God, if I don’t take it for granted. I have to actively practice my faith to keep the scriptures from becoming some nice stories that aren’t really pertinent to me. The Jesus who went to the ends of the Earth is still there to go that far for me.

Jesus went (and will go) to the ends of the Earth to heal us. By Ann RockClick To Tweet

Ponder:

Am I more like the royal official, asking for healing and trusting Jesus’ power, or do I fail to honor Him as did His hometown neighbors?

Pray:

Dear Jesus, thank you for the unending wonders of Your love. Please help me to have an active faith, to pray, to honor and to act in Your Name as You did in the Father’s. Amen

Copyright 2017 Ann Rock

I’m the mother of a 21 year old son. My husband and I celebrated our 30th anniversary last year. I work as a home health companion to senior citizens.