THE MAJESTY AND MERCY OF GOD - 02/20/23 (Monday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time)

Mark 9:21–24

Jesus asked his father, “How long has he had this?” And he said, “From childhood. And it has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you can do anything, have pity on us and help us.” And Jesus said to him, “If you can! All things are possible to him who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!”

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021923.cfm

Blessed Monday! Before this gospel reading, the disciples saw the glory of Jesus Christ as they went to the mountain. They saw Him and His clothes being so brilliant and white. In our lives, when we think of God, we may easily perceive His holiness and His majesty. God is the Creator and Sustainer of All Things. Our Lord gives existence to all things, and everything is dependent on God at every moment of their existence. We may also be in awe when we remember that the wisdom and knowledge of God is infinite. However, there are times that we dwell on the majesty of God while forgetting His infinite mercy and love. In today's gospel reading, a father came to our Lord begging for His help. It's because his child, starting from a young age, was possessed by a demon. The father had faith in our Lord because if he did not, he wouldn't even seek Jesus Christ. But, his faith was mixed with doubts. This was seen when the father told our Lord, "but if You can do anything, have pity on us and help us."

The father was a bit unsure whether Jesus was even capable of helping them. Sometimes, we can be like this father who needs to persevere more in our belief. This may happen to us in different ways such as when we dwell on our worries and too many negative thoughts. Some may be too disappointed when they see their imperfections. Others may also be hopeless when they see the sins of those who continue living a wrong lifestyle such as those who always fall to drunkenness and other sins. But, the Lord is reminding us that all things are possible to those who believe. Why? It's because He loves us. His infinite love and mercy for us should be our hope. The truth is, even if we think we are distant from the Lord, He is always with us and within us. He is waiting for us to always come to Him and love Him. Let's have confidence in the goodness of God and ask Him to increase in us our faith, hope and love. May we also pray for the intentions and conversion of people, even those whom others just dismiss. No one is hopeless when we place our hope in God. He offers to all of us the gift of eternal life because He wants to save us from eternal death, and He wants us to be happy with Him forever. 

Amen +

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Summary and Defense of Catholic Teachings:

https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth