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Vocation Meditation -
August 29, 2010
The setting for today's Gospel teaching today is a Sabbath dinner with a group pf Pharisees: "When Jesus noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, he told them a parable. … "When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers and sisters … But when you give a banquet invite to poor the cripple and the lame and the blind. And you will be blessed because they cannot repay you for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."
The call to follow Jesus is one that continually challenges us to think and act beyond what we are usually so comfortable in our family and community, relating to people that we know, and liked being with. Jesus today is widening our vision to include creating relationships with people in society who are often forgotten, or even looked down upon. He wants us to understand that the kingdom of God is inclusive of all peoples, especially the poor and the suffering of this world. A vocational choice to follow Christ with my whole being will inevitably require expanding my vision of life and relationships to see how Jesus sees people around him, and to whom he shows special concern. He is reflecting the heart of his Father, and inviting us to share God's compassion for the most in need. They too deserve to enjoy life and be acknowledged with everyone else in their God-given dignity.
Vocations Challenge:
How do I see myself being gently challenged by Christ in today's Gospel?
Help me Lord, to live and act humbly in my daily life especially with the poor and the downtrodden in my world. I desire to imitate you in service of others, to see as you see, to be compassionate and welcoming as you are compassionate and welcoming. Amen.
For the full Gospel reading for this Sunday, visit the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops site.