The WORD today (See http://usccb.org/bible/readings/092513.cfm) reminds me that we don't always have to force ourselves and God's message to those who are not ready or willing to accept it.
The gospel teaches us about relying on God's providence, of God equipping us, and us doing God's work. (See related reflections on these below). However, what struck me is that sometimes, we don't have to force things.
There is a frame of mind that says that we should not spend too much time improving other areas of our lives, but also take time to hone and specialize on what we are already good at. If you're good in one thing, spend more time specializing and honing it and less time learning new things or improving on things you are not good at.
In the gospel, we see Jesus teaching his disciples this principle. Of course they would spread his message to all, but he said that "And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them.” He did not say that they force them yo accept and understand. He did not tell them to stay in those towns until they receive God in their lives. He told them not to force it.
In our lives, there are people who do not seem to be welcoming to God. There are people we constantly talk to who does not seem to learn, or do not want to learn. God is telling us that sometimes, we do not need to force it. We should not leave them and let them be, but we should not be obsessed with changing them, or with supporting them. Maybe God wants us to spend our efforts in bringing others to him - others who are ready and just waiting to be approached.
Let us pray for a discerning heart to know when to hold on and when to not force it.
Father God,
Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live and so things for you. Lord, i pray that you give me a discerning heart, a heart that would know how you want me to act as i serve you. May those people not ready and willing not disappoint or dishearten me, and just enable me to continue to trust in your wisdom. Amen.
Blessed day!
In Christ,
-g-
Ps
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