The first reading speaks about the restoration and unification of Israel. God promises hope and renewal for a people who have experienced exile and separation. As I was reading this passage, I remembered the times in my life that I have been in exile, that I have been held captive in my sinfulness and addictions. The numerous times that I have complained and cried out to God for not answering my plea. When faced with a crisis, the first thought that comes into my mind is that God has abandoned me. Today, God is assuring us that he has the perfect plan for our lives and that he will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock so that we will not go astray or feel abandoned in crisis but rather hold on to the Shepherd to lead us and take us through the crisis with joy and inner peace. In the Gospel reading, we see Jesus being accused of performing miracles, but that did not stop him from doing the Father’s will. What stops us today from doing the will of the Father?

PRAYER: Abba Father, I pray for the grace to do your will. Amen.