Thomas Lima csc –
Readings: 2 Kgs 5:1-15; Lk 4: 24-30
Today’s first reading is about Naaman, a Syrian general, who was miraculously cured by Elisha the prophet. The gospel is the second part of a scene in the synagogue in Nazareth, where Jesus officially announces his mission as messiah, saviour, and liberator.
The first reaction was one of amazement that Jesus, their townsman, could speak with such power. Where did he get it all? There was amazement, but no real faith in him. Familiarity had blinded them to his true identity, and they reject him. For them, he is just Joseph the carpenter’s boy. So, Jesus says no prophet is ever accepted in his own country.
We too can very easily fail to recognize the voice of God in certain people who, in fact, whether they are aware of it or not, are bringing a message from him. Like the people of Nazareth, we can think we know them too well to listen to them. We feel it would be inconceivable that God could speak to us through such people.
Lent calls us to examine our lives. Are we truly happy? Are we at peace? How would we describe our relationship with God, is this relationship superficial or is it a deep and meaningful relationship? Lent is a time and a call to go deep within. Today we deliberately take time to introspect.
May we sit quietly with God and look into our hearts. The reality is Jesus is there. It is our choice to go closer to him and say, ‘Jesus son of David have pity on me.’