27-Sep-16

Gospel LK 9:51-56

When the days for Jesus to be taken up were fulfilled,
he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem,
and he sent messengers ahead of him.
On the way they entered a Samaritan village
to prepare for his reception there,
but they would not welcome him
because the destination of his journey was Jerusalem.
When the disciples James and John saw this they asked,
“Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven
to consume them?”
Jesus turned and rebuked them,
and they journeyed to another village.

Reflection:

The disciples showed no patience for the Samaritans who did not extend a welcome to Jesus. Instead, they asked Jesus, “Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?”

The disciples' first reaction was to destroy anyone who did not welcome or agree with Jesus.

It is important to remember that the word disciple means to be a student, a learner.

Jesus was often referred to by His followers as "Teacher." And, it is a teacher's duty to correct their student when they go down the wrong path.

"Jesus turned and rebuked them,

and they journeyed to another village."

Rather than punishing the Samaritans, Jesus rebukes His followers and simply continues on to the next village.

He taught His disciples (students) to treat those who reject Him with tolerance and mercy and then to move on to others whose minds may be open.

Today's gospel calls me to do a rigorous self examination.

What is my reaction to those who are not open to Jesus' message of tolerance, love and mercy?

Do I turn away from them in anger and resentment? Or, do I treat them respectfully and then, like Jesus, continue on my way spreading the Good News to those who have ears to listen?

“It is easy enough to be friendly to one's friends. But to befriend the one who regards himself as your enemy is the quintessence of true religion."
- - Mahatma Gandhi