John 10:24
So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, "How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly."
Acts 11:23
When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart
Looking at the Gospel today, we hear the people in the temple saying to Jesus, "If you are the Christ, tell us plainly." I think it is easy for us to hear that and say 'how can they not believe that Jesus is the Messiah°Did they not see all that Jesus has done? Are their hearts not firm enough?' I think we often desire more, making it hard for us to accept that we have enough right in front of us - Jesus. Can we not see that Jesus is in our midst, in our own hearts, and in the hearts of our neighbors?
Continuing to today's first reading, we hear the early follower of Jesus, Barnabas, preaching the Good News and encouraging the masses to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart because of the trials they are facing or going to face. I truly do believe that this encouragement to the people then isn't just for then, but also for now. That encouragement is to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart today even if we feel like everything is falling apart around us and we don't have everything we want. Jesus, increase the firmness of my faith in You, my hope in You, and the charity towards my neighbors. Help me realize that all I need is You, Jesus.
Get to know our seminarians! Today's reflection was written by:
Andrew Zsebedics, Sophmore
Home parish: St. Lawrence
Did you know...
Ranch dressing is amazing, but chicken wings with blue cheese is the only way to go.
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