Bible Reflections I 28.09.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 26

Readings 

           I - Zech. 8: 20-23

           II - Lk. 9: 51-56

OUR GOD IS GOD OF GENTLENESS

                  

Jesus was focused about his mission and ministry; and therefore set his face to go to Jerusalem when the days drew near for him to be taken up.  Jesus and his disciples were on their way to Jerusalem through Samaria, the shortcut to Jerusalem.  Though Jesus was already renowned and hailed by people as teacher, preacher and healer, the Samaritans did not receive him into their city because of the constant conflict between the Jews and the Samaritans.  The Jews considered the Samaritans as outcasts and never associated with them.  But to go to Jerusalem they always chose the shortcut through Samaria and this caused prejudice in the minds of the Samaritans and hence they refused to receive Jesus too into their city.  The disciples of Jesus, James and John wanted Jesus to command them to bring down fire from heave to destroy them.  But Jesus rebuked his disciples and went through another village to Jerusalem.  

We can draw two lessons from the Gospel passage of the day.  First, the Samaritans in their prejudice received not Jesus, the promised one of God and the restorer (Deu. 18:15) whom they believed in and waited for.  And Secondly, Jesus was so gentle and understanding enough to respect the freedom and feelings of the Samaritans that he went through another village to Jerusalem.  Everyone has their own reason for their reaction.  When we choose to go beyond and to respond, we will be sure to cease the chances, opportunities, prospects and possibilities ahead unlike the Samaritans. Let us also like Jesus, be gentle and respect the freedom of others than violating, coercing and trampling. May our heart and mind resonate with the prayer: “Gentle Jesus, teach me to be like you”.