"Seeing Others as God Sees Them": Reflection for Sunday, January 17, 2010

"Seeing Others as God Sees Them" 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Today's Scripture: Isaiah 62: 1-5; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; John 2: 1-11 can be read at www.usccb.org/nab


Everyday life can contain any number of possible interactions with others. Some of these interactions may be barely noticed; others may be significant. How we view others can greatly affect the way we interact with them. Everyday stresses, unrealistic expectations, or past hurts can also affect our view of people.

God’s Word today reminds us that each person is valued and loved by God: “a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord… the Lord’s beloved” (Isaiah).

Likewise, each person has God-given gifts and talents: “varieties of gifts but the same Spirit”(Corinthians).

As Jesus made a difference at the wedding feast of Cana, God’s Word today challenges us to recognize our own gifts, to use these gifts to serve others, and to help others recognize their own giftedness so that they too can make a difference in our world.(John)

With the tragedy of the earthquake in Haiti before our eyes, God's Word can take on renewed meaning for us.

To think about: Do I thank God for my talents and abilities?

Do I thank God for others’ talents and abilities?

Do I try to “catch them doing good” by noticing my child’s abilities and talents?

Do I try to see others, especially those I might not readily like, as someone who is loved by God?

Do I try to use my talents and abilities to make even a small difference in this world?

To do: Compliment or thank someone for a way that they have used their talent and ability.

Help people in Haiti as you contribute to one of the many groups that serve in that poor country. Help develop a child's talents and abilities by sponsoring a child in St. Augustine School Haiti (Call St. Mary's Office 732-780-2666 for info.)

Take time to see yourself as someone whom God loves.

Ask God to help you to see someone else, especially someone you find difficult, as God sees that person.

To pray: “We are many parts, we are all one body. And the gifts we have, we are given to share.”



Next week: 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time: Nehemiah 8: 2-10; 1 Corinthians 12: 12-30; Luke 1: 1-4; 4: 14-21