Lockdown and Gospel - Day 23, February 1 (Monday of the fourth week of Ordinary Time)

(How does today’s Gospel speak to me during this lockdown? Allow me to share a humble reflection.)

Jesus said to him, “Go home to your friends, and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and what mercy he has shown you.”(Mark 5 :19)

Jesus has just freed a man from a devastating maleficent power. In a surge of gratitude, this man asks Jesus to become his disciple, but Jesus invites him instead to reconnect with his own family, to retake his place in the life of his village and to share his experience of God's mercy with those who share his life.

I sometimes fantasize about doing something extraordinary that would show everyone my faith. The Lord, however, invites me to simplicity and humility. My Christian life first takes place in my family setting, in my home, where I can simply share the love I receive from God with others. This lockdown invites me to be more attentive to the less spectacular dimension of life, woven from simple gestures but imbued with great love.

Abba, Father, you are full of kindness and mercy for me. Thanks to you, I can experience a hope and a joy that I would not know otherwise. Help me to be a witness of your mercy, especially for those who are close to me. In the ordinariness of my life, I will learn to recognize the wonder of your presence.

Amen.