Do You Have A Thorn In Your Flesh?

14th Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Ezekiel 2:2-5
Psalm 122(123)
2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Mark 6:1-6

The Christian life is anything but easy and trouble-free! It is not about being admired or thought of as “good.” The scriptures from today’s Mass make it clear that being a faithful Catholic comes with its share of difficulties and hardships. Just look at Ezekiel, who was sent by the Lord to the rebels of Israel.

He knew he would face rejection and trouble, yet he remained steadfast in his mission. And Saint Paul, despite his tireless apostolic work, was afflicted with a “thorn in the flesh,” which he believed was sent by God to keep him humble.

Even Jesus Christ faced rejection in his hometown of Nazareth. His wisdom and insight were unmatched, yet the people there would not accept him. His divinity was not recognized, and his humanity was rejected.

So, what can we learn from these experiences? Living a faithful Catholic life won’t bring easy rewards or popularity. Instead, we are called to be signs of contradiction, standing firm in the face of opposition.

We may face pressure to compromise our values, but we are called to remain steadfast in our beliefs. And it is not just about external challenges. Every day, we are presented with opportunities to chip away at our pride, whether it is cheerfully doing unpleasant tasks or receiving praise with humility.

But the good news is that the love of God encompasses every instance of human pain and disappointment. Just as Jesus experienced rejection and suffering, we too can find strength in our faith. So, as we follow the Way of the Cross in our own lives, may we be granted an increase in grace and be prepared for the vision of God’s glory. Amen!

N.B

PLEASE, REMEMBER ME IN YOUR PRAYERS AS I CELEBRATE MY PRIESTLY ORDINATION ANNIVERSARY TODAY. THANK YOU AND MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU.

Fr Joseph Osho