God’s people did not listen. This lament of God is found in the Old Testament. In the gospel, Jesus also complained that his people would not let him gather them up under his protective wings like a mother hen. Even today, this reality continues.
God has spoken and is speaking but we do not listen. In the scriptures, in the sacraments, in the teaching of the Church and deep within our own hearts Jesus continues to speak and guide us on life’s journey. Let it not be said of us that we did not listen.
Jesus, you invite me (us) to work with you, gather, and harvest with you so that all may be saved. You want to gather up every particle of hope and transform it into salvation. Gathered like the baskets of left-over bread, every effort exerted for you and with you is a promise of future blessings.
What is done without you is wasted energy. Outside of You, no one can bear fruit. Form us into people who are attentive to your voice.
Prayer:
Lord, so often I hear but do not lísten. I look but see only on the surface. The familiar words of Scripture roll over me like water on a duck’s back. Capture my attention. Send your Holy Spirit so I may truly hear, see, and receive your messages.
