You are my Disciples - June 4
Today’s Reflections: AM Psalm 50; PM Psalm [59, 60] or 8, 84; Eccles. 3:16-4:3; Gal. 3:1-14; Mat. 14:13-21
As my reflection for today, I’m taking a more light-hearted approach and retelling the gospel narrative in today’s context. As you listen, try to identify the place where you fit in.
Now when Jesus heard that the people were dying from disease, both physical and cultural plagues, and that many were suffering, protesting, angry and questioning over the ills of the world, He withdrew to spend some time in solitude. But the people wouldn’t leave Him alone with their thoughts and prayers. He could sense their distress during these troubled times and had compassion for them, saying, “Truly I tell you, if you click on this Zoom link, we can figure this whole thing out.”
So, all those who were sending thoughts and prayers gathered with Jesus via Zoom and immediately began pleading for him to handle things because there are too many people to feed. But Jesus took charge of the meeting and said, “hang on, hang on, hang on…you’re telling me there are too many people and they’re about to get hungry…let’s dig a little deeper here…who are ‘they’ and what are they hungry for?”
Some said people are hungry for actual food, others said they are hungry for connection, while still some said people hunger for communion at Church. As Jesus encouraged them to continue, more responses came: they thirst for the ability to do virtual school, they are hungry to work and have a home, they are starving for freedom and safety and they are craving to be accepted for their differing races, who they love, and their abilities without judgment, even the earth is crying out in hunger pangs.
“Jesus,” they exclaimed, “please do something!” To which Jesus responded, “Now I appreciate all your thoughts and prayers and, don’t get me wrong, you definitely need to keep sending those. But YOU are my disciples, YOU do something!”
They looked at each other perplexed, then Jesus inquired, “you’ve named all the things, and I’ve taught you the mission love and serve, so tell me what you have to offer. I’ll help you get started…what is your greatest desire for the world? For my greatest desire is that same desire that’s dwelling within you.” Finally, one person broke the silence to offer their extra laptop to a student, then another said they are a teacher, someone else offered their pantry and kitchen for people to help prepare food, while others offered their time and vehicles to distribute food and other goods. The energy picked up and the ideas were flowing like crazy. There were many who suggested ways to care for caregivers and support those who are suffering most from the virus. Several wanted to learn how to become visiting Eucharistic ministers and connect with each other in new ways. Some wanted to know how to be allies. They offered money, book studies, phone calls, and time and energy to join task forces and support efforts in a variety of ways. They continued brainstorming their resources and each decided they have something to offer and can hold each other accountable for feeding the “hungry.”
At this point, Jesus said, “See…You’ve got this! It’s going to take some work and it won’t be easy, but you already have everything you need to be my disciples. I am always with you in Spirit. Always remember your baptism and the promises you made on my behalf. As you go, I bless you and your offerings in My name to be My hands and feet in the world, now go in peace to love and serve. And for the love of Me, and all things Good, remember to wash your hands and wear a mask!”
— Susan Oakes
Susan Oakes is a rising senior at the Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas. This summer, she is serving as a seminarian intern at Saint Stephen's, her sponsoring parish for ordination.
Questions for Self Reflection
What do you think people are hungry for?
How do you fit in?
Daily Challenge
Offer some prayer time for the needs of our community and then brainstorm some practical steps towards resolving, learning about, or supporting those needs in some way. Share with a friend.