Friday, October 16, 2009

"Seeking the Spotlight":Reflection for October 18, 2009: 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time

29th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Isaiah 53: 10-11; Hebrews 4: 14-16; Mark 10: 35-45
Today's Scripture can be found at http:www.uscb.org/nab
Seeking the Spotlight

Images of well-known media personalities can flood our lives. Seeing people who “shine” and receive attention from others - even if only fo ra few minutes- can tend to affect one's attitudes and behavior.
While we may periodically yearn to be “in the spotlight”(Mark), God’s Word today reminds us of the significance of faithful attention to the quiet, unsung details our lives (Hebrews).
Our struggles, difficulties and sufferings may take on different appearances, and we may at times even feel overwhelmed by aspects of our lives (Isaiah).
Yet, God’s Word can strengthen us as we look away from the spotlight to live in service to others.

To think about:
How often do I seek the spotlight?
Am I faithful to my responsibilities even when I am not noticed?
Am I willing to serve others even when that service is not acknowledged?
Do I look for and acknowledge goodness and potential in others?
Do I see leadership as a chance to dominate others or to serve others?
Do I take time to thank those who serve others as volunteers?

To do: Thank someone who serves in a capacity that helps others – in church, school activities, sports or community activities.
Thank someone whose employment involves serving others in some capacity.
Do a “random act” of kindness or service for someone every day this week.
Serve someone in the wider human family by giving time to a local service organization. Perhaps your church bulletin contains ideas for involvement.

To pray: “To be your bread now, be your wine now, Lord, come and change us to be a sign of your love.”

Next week: 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Jeremiah 31: 7-9; Hebrews 5: 1-6; Mark 10: 46-52

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