Advent 1st Wk December 5, 2018

Reflection on the WORD

Jesus’ Compassion: In today’s Gospel, Jesus felt deep compassion for the great crowds. All of them were sick and hungry.  Jesus then performed the miracles needed to feed and cure them.  And, proclaimed the Good News of Salvation to them.  Is Salvation more important than cure of illnesses?

Mt 15:29-30,32, 35-37

Jesus reached the shores of the Lake of Galilee, and he went up onto the mountain. He took his seat, and large crowds came to him bringing the lame, the crippled, the blind, the dumb and many others; these they put down at his feet, and he cured them. 

But Jesus called his disciples to him and said, ‘I feel sorry for all these people; they have been with me for three days now and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them off hungry, or they might collapse on the way.’ Then Jesus instructed the crowd to sit down on the ground, and he took the seven loaves and the fish, and after giving thanks he broke them and began handing them to the disciples, who gave them to the crowds. They all ate as much as they wanted, and they collected what was left of the scraps, seven baskets full.

Today's Pointers on God's Word

As you read the passage what words, phases or meanings caught your attention?

  • In today’s Gospel, Jesus revealed His divine power through His Teachings, His miraculous multiplication of loaves and His unconditional compassionate love for those who are hungry and in need.
  • As disciples of Jesus in today’s world, do we also teach and proclaim the Gospel? Are we instruments of healing, compassion and peace to those who are hungry and in need? 
  • When we hold on to God’s abundant blessings e.g. health, wealth, talents and time for ourselves, the divine power is hampered by our selfishness.  But, if we share our blessing with others, God’s graces will multiply to benefit the multitude of people who come into contact with us.