Gospel Reflection: Saturday – 15th Week in Ordinary Time

July 18, 2020

Many people say that we are defined by the decisions we make. This claim seems startling but it has a grain of truth in it because indeed, every day we are being offered a lot of choices that make an impact on our lives. What we are today is a product of our past choices. Our achievements depend on how we have chosen to act and react to the threats and opportunities that confront us.

Our gospel reading today shows the continuing conflict between Jesus and the Pharisees. The gospel begins with the Pharisees planning to kill Him. Jesus, upon realizing the threat, has left the place and continues His mission of preaching and healing.

So far, there are always two possible reactions when we are in the face of danger – withdrawal or aggression. Either of the two choices can be beneficial to our instincts of survival and any other possible ulterior motives. Choosing the right reaction can determine success while choosing the wrong reaction can lead to failure. Hence, what is important to succeed is to always consider the possible consequences.

Jesus could have chosen not to flee from those planning to kill Him. He could have confronted them. For many occasions, He has done it. But in this gospel reading, He has chosen to withdraw because He knows that He has a more important mission to do other than picking up a quarrel with the Pharisees. He does not want His mission to be compromised.

In our life’s journey, we are always confronted with different challenges. Sometimes, situations come to trigger our strong reactions. With full passion and pride, we engage in the many battles of life just to prove ourselves right and others wrong. The resulting hatred and pain ensue only to find out that we have already diverted and veered away from our original mission.

For Jesus, the mission is so clear and it does not need to be compromised. Thus, all his actions are focused on doing what contributes to the fulfillment of his goals.

What is your goal and purpose in life? What is your mission? What are the priorities that you have to do to fulfill your mission?

We are reminded today that we have to choose our battles.

(Rev. Fr. Urbano Pardillo, DCD; Director, St John Paul II Seminary in Kibanban, Digos City)