5th Sunday in ordinary time
Readings:
Job 7:1-4,6-7
1 Corinthians 9:16-19,22-23
Mark 1:29-39
Reflection
“In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed.”
There’s always more to do, more to be, and more to achieve; the work is never done. The mission of the gospel keeps going. Our time here is short, and when we are given all the time, we must seek balance. We must stand firm on allowing ourselves to rest, renew and recharge. Jesus showed this in the gospel when he, too, needed rest. Whether it’s a mountain, a holiday, a beach… we physically and emotionally need to go away. To be still and listen to what God might be saying to us. To evaluate where we are going and who we are travelling with and our sense of calling.
Taking time out means to connect with ourselves and our God as well as our friends and family. I’m in the business of retreats, and I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of this connection. We ask young people (and teachers) to come away and spend time getting renewed. Only last week, I had the experience of a group of year 12s saying how much they wish we should do this (connect with self, others, and God) more. The invitation is always there, waiting for us to reconnect. Is it time yet for you to do some of this?
Jo McDade, Manager of the Passionist Youth Retreat Team.