‘Caution, God at work!’

Scripture John 5:16-19 NRSVue

Therefore the Jews started persecuting Jesus, because he was doing such things on the Sabbath. But Jesus answered them, “My Father is still working, and I also am working.” For this reason the Jews were seeking all the more to kill him, because he was not only breaking the Sabbath but was also calling God his own Father, thereby making himself equal to God.

Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, the Son can do nothing on his own but only what he sees the Father doing, for whatever the Father does, the Son does likewise.

Reflection

Cynically, a writer thought that God must get bored with nothing to do all day. He could not imagine God being so involved in the lives of his people, God getting his hands dirty. St Ignatius said God labours constantly, but the word ‘labour’ here means to struggle, sweat and strain up to your knees in muck! Well, the Crucifixion is a good example of it.

Today’s Prayer

Lord, thank you for being so involved in our world, for bringing hope. Help me to see your hands at work in my days. Grant that all I do and all that I suffer may be used by you to help and encourage all those in need of your love and compassion.

O Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you.

Novena Prayer

Lord, work on my heart until it becomes like your Sacred Heart. Give me hope. Then, I can love you and all my sisters and brothers with the respect, compassion, and forgiveness that you have for everyone. I ask this in your name. I ask you to grant my special request during this novena (here, mention your intention). If what I ask is not for my own good and the good of others, grant me what will most help to build up your kingdom of justice, love and peace. I make this prayer with confidence in your love.  Amen