WEEKLY THOUGHTS 16th SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME - JULY 21, 2024
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the celebration of the 16th Sunday in Ordinary time and third Sunday in the month of July 2024. I wish to extend a special welcome to all our visitors.
In the Gospel Reading of last Sunday; Mark 6: 7-13 we heard Jesus listening to the twelve apostles Jesus had sent to preach Repentance and, in his name, cast out demons and to heal and cure all sorts of ailments. The disciples sharing their pastoral experience with Jesus and their fellow disciples, were amazed by the divine power Jesus had given them over demons and illnesses.
In the Gospel Reading of this Sunday; Mark 6:30-34 we find Jesus listening to the twelve as they report with excitement and joy of their pastoral experience. The crowds from the communities where the 12 preached were amazed and followed them. Jesus proposed that they take a break to a secluded place away from the crowds; “come away by yourselves.”
The crowds continued to pursue them. Jesus extended his passion towards these people looking for Spiritual nourishment which the disciples had shared with them. Indeed, for a long time, these people had suffered from the Spiritual hunger and thirst which Jesus and his disciples could provide. They were like wondering sheep without a shepherd.
For us celebrating this day of the Lord, Jesus invites us to seek him in a quiet environment for prayer. It is at this holy moment that Jesus can fill our spiritual hunger and thirst. It is at this moment of solitude that we can be refreshed and recharged. Let us embrace the invitation of Jesus; “Come to me all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Mt. 11:28)
Let us find time and space to pray together as a family.
Have a great week.
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