Reflection on the Gospel of Monday of Week 2 Yr. B Rev Fr Julian O Ekeh

 

THE ONLY REASON FOR GRIEF

(Mark 2:18-22)

The disciples of John and the Pharisees wondered and questioned why the disciples of Jesus Christ do not fast whereas those of John fast. They wondered aloud and put it as a question to Jesus Christ. But Jesus gave an interesting answer. He (Jesus) is the only answer they needed for that question. Jesus wonders in return why they shouldn't rejoice when He is in their midst. He wonders why they should fast while the reason for fasting is in their midst.

Jesus used the opportunity to enlighten them on the only reasonable and acceptable course for fasting, wailing and grieving. Thus, the occasion of Christ's absence, just like the absence of air is what should warrant gasping for air. In order words, just struggle to have Christ and forget about any other thing.

We should worry about those forces and conditions that take away Jesus in our lives. We should be concerned about those circumstances that keep God at a distance. We live sad when God is away. We suffer more when God is taken away. We should pray and fast against those persons that remove God from us.

On the other hand, if God is for us, who can be against us? One with God is the majority.  O yes, "with the Saviour ever near to guide me, I am safe whatever may betide me, from the storms and tempest He will hide me, in the hollow of His hands".

Do not mind the people who try to know the secret of your joy. Don't disturb yourself about those who are worried that you do not look like what you go through. Do not mind those who do unnecessary comparisons. Ride on, living in God. Make God your only source of happiness, you will not regret it.

LET US PRAY

Thank you, Jesus for defending my course. Thank you for proving to the world and situations around me that You are my only source of joy and happiness. Put an end to all those things that make me sad and create more avenues for those things that make me glad in you. Those who put their trust in you are never disappointed. May you never be taken away in human affairs as the world wants to do. Remain with us now and for ever. Amen.

God bless your Monday (Week 2, Ordinary Time, Yr. B)

Rev Fr Julian O Ekeh

Image from: Empowering tips to help caregivers deal with anticipatory grief (ageucate.com)