SNACK TREAT

SNACK TREAT

 

They all ate and were satisfied. – Mark 6:42

 

I was in a dilemma. My caring group (CG) head scheduled a council meeting at a time when my finances were tight. Because I had to limit my spending, I had no budget for my food. After much contemplation, I decided to attend anyway. I figured I could take a heavy lunch at home and bring crackers for snacks.

I was already at the restaurant where we were supposed to meet at 2 p.m. when my CG head texted that she would be late. By 3 p.m., I was starving. Although I had crackers, it wasn’t enough to satisfy my hunger. The sight and aroma of the food from the restaurant made me even hungrier. It was torture for me!

My CG head arrived at 3:30 p.m., apologetic for her tardiness. She said, “Since I’m late, I’ll treat you all to a snack.” In our Gospel today, Jesus was able to feed and satisfy the multitude even if they initially had a measly five loaves and two fish. All I had that day were crackers but the Lord turned it into a full meal. That experience taught me not to worry over anything because the Lord provides.Judith Concepcion (svp_jmc@yahoo.com)

 

REFLECTION:

“My God will fully supply whatever you need, in accord with his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

 

Lord, You are my Great Provider. I trust that You will provide for my every need.

 

THE AIMLESSNESS OF THE SHEPHERDLESS

 

My father used to be a part owner of a small cattle property just outside the city of Canberra where I grew up. Two of our neighbors raised sheep on their properties and I used to be amazed by their aimlessness. However, when one of them found its way over a bridge or through a gate, the rest all readily followed in a rush. Sheep truly seem to be in need of a leader or else they will wander about and never accomplish anything.

The same is true for a person who has no spiritual guidance. They will tend to be blown around by any and every fad that arises. This is not a healthy situation as it will only lead to confusion and error. Clarity is of primary importance for the spiritual life; without it, the darkness of sin is always capable of inserting itself into the life and mind of a confused person.

One of the best things we can do to avoid aimlessness in our spiritual lives is to seek ongoing formation in the Word of God and remain active in our faith communities. If we get lazy and do not actively seek such formation and opportunities for service, the old saying that “the devil makes use of idle hands” will surely become true for us. In many ways, we hold our destinies in our own hands according to the decisions we make. Yes, we can do nothing without the grace of God; however, it is just as true that the grace of God is powerless to change us without our cooperation. Let us seek out the places and ways we can form ourselves in the mind and ways of God and allow His Spirit to lead and guide us into the ways of truth and love that will lead to eternal life. This is what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. I like the old saying that “God helps those who help themselves.” There is something healthy about seeing ourselves give some contribution to any change that occurs in our lives. Jesus is the power and grace behind any change, but we have to make a decision to want to change or all His power will be in vain. Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL

 

Reflection Question:

Do I resist the work of the Spirit in my life? How well do I surrender to the graces God sends to transform my life?

 

Holy Spirit, open my heart to the truth of God’s love for me, trusting that all He desires for me is for the best.

 

St. Charles of Sezze, pray for us.