Friday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time

In today’s first reading Paul writes to the Romans of his anguish about his acceptance of Christ coupled with heartache about those who have not fully embraced Christianity.  While I am generally a positive person, this reading helps me access the times I have been feeling anguish, despair and fear about my faith.   In today’s Gospel from Luke the Pharisees question the choice Jesus makes on the Sabbath to heal a man suffering from dropsy.  This reading reminds me of the many times I have explained or defended my faith.  And the times I have not had the courage to do so.

Today I pray with these questions:  When do I offer the gift of deeply listening to someone’s story?  How can I best accompany others in their faith journey?  What do I need when I feel anguish or fear?  How can I best appreciate the gifts in my life?  When do I follow and when do I lead?

"My sheep hear my voice," says the Lord.  "I know them and they follow me."