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Reflection for Sunday 01/07/07

READINGS
First Reading: Isaiah 60:1-6
Second Reading: Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6
Gospel: Matthew 2:1-12

REFLECTION:
Good things happened in spite of Herod’s bad intentions. When the Magi asked him where they could find the newborn king he sent the Magi to Bethlehem. Herod was not really interested in being helpful. He was interested in protecting himself. He felt threatened by the birth of a new king so he asked the travelers to return to tell him exactly where to find the infant. His plan was to rid himself of this potential rival. Would the Magi have found Jesus without Herod’s assistance? If the Magi had not found Jesus how would the world have learned about our savior’s birth? Good did come out of Herod’s action despite his evil intentions. Haven’t we been surprised at times by the good that has come out of our actions? We may have been discouraged because something we attempted did not work out the way he hoped, only to find later that good results did occur in some unexpected way. God seems to transform our inadequate efforts giving them power and meaning. It is our challenge to trust in God’s willingness to guide and bless our efforts to serve God and each other.

1. When have you been jealous or fearful of another person? When are such feelings harmful?
2. When have you been jealous because something good happened to another person instead of you? What is the problem with feeling that way?

PRAYER:
Most Gracious God, help me to be your faithful servant and accept my gratitude for your loving care for all your people. Amen.

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