2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
1 Samuel 3:3b-10.19 1Corinthians 6:13c-15a.17-20 John 1:35-42
Theme: Contentment in Life
Today is the second Sunday of the ordinary time, Year B. In the three readings we have today, we are given some insight about discipleship. In the first reading we hear about the call of Samuel, and he was guided by Eli on what to do. In the second reading, St. Paul admonishes us about what to do as faithful Disciples of Christ. Lastly in the gospel reading, John exhibits a wonderful attribute that should be found in the life of a disciple of Christ, which is contentment.
Sometimes in our lives, when things happen without any problem, we take things for granted. For instance, when we sleep at night and wake up in the morning without any problem, some of us tend to think that it is normal; not knowing that it is a miracle. This is because some people slept last night but did not wake up this morning. The air we breathe is given to us free of charge by God, but when you are sick and must pay for oxygen, like it is done in some places to sustain your life, then you will realize that God is giving you so much without collecting anything in return.
The action of John the Baptist in today’s gospel, reminds me about a story I was told sometime in the past. Mr. A and Mr. B lives in the same house. One day, some visitors were directed by a friend of Mr. B to him in his country. But when they arrived, Mr. A was the person they met. So, he asked them, do you know Mr. B, they said no; we were directed to him by our friend, and he said, that is why I am surprised because I am Mr. B. Mr. B was not around at the time the visitors came and Mr. A received them pretending to be Mr. B. The friend who directed them called to appreciate Mr. B for his hospitality towards them and he was surprised because he has not seen them. The deception of Mr. A was later discovered.
But in the gospel, John pointed out to his disciples Jesus as The Lamb of God and they left him and followed Jesus. He was not jealous or angry that he lost his disciples, because he was contented with the task God gave him and there was no need for unnecessary rivalry. If Mr. A was contented with himself, he would not have pretended to be Mr. B. This brings us to a very important question. Are you contented with the task God has given you as a disciple of Christ? We all should be contented like John the Baptist. By so doing eliminating all forms of unnecessary rivalry and envy that is found amongst the people of God. There is no better time for us to take this bold step than now, as the church prays for unity.
In the first reading, we see the call of Samuel. He heard because he was attentive. In the same way, we must learn to be attentive to the voice of God, especially during prayer. Always remember that prayer is a dialogue between you and God not a monologue. Also, in the second reading, St. Paul admonishes us about the need for holiness and purity of life as children of God. This is very important if we want to remain in union of God. May God grant us the grace to be always true disciples of Christ, in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit, Amen. Peace be with you!