PRI Reflections on Scripture • 9-30-24 - Memorial of Saint Jerome, Priest and Doctor of the Church

Finding God In Our Hearts with Msgr. Don Fischer

Gospel

Luke 9:46-50

An argument arose among the disciples

about which of them was the greatest.

Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child

and placed it by his side and said to them,

"Whoever receives this child in my name receives me,

and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me.

For the one who is least among all of you

is the one who is the greatest."

Then John said in reply,

"Master, we saw someone casting out demons in’ your name

and we tried to prevent him

because he does not follow in our company."

Jesus said to him,

"Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”

Reflection

It's clear that the disciples were not unlike the scribes and Pharisees. They were also very much self-centered. But Jesus points out something I think so interesting, He talks about the intention of their hearts. What do they really, really want? Who are they really? The heart is where God dwells, and that's the source of the wisdom that we need.

And so Jesus is giving them this piece of wisdom. Don't try to become more than you are. Accept your vulnerability as a child. Trust in me, not in yourself. That's his longing for them to understand.

Closing Prayer

Father, awaken in our hearts the center of compassion and understanding. A way of seeing the world. We tend to see it only with our mind. And now you're teaching us that we need to turn to you in our hearts, and seek your wisdom. And we ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

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