Sunday Reading Reflections:

June 27, 2010
Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time


Reading 1 Reflection:

Today we hear the dramatic story of the prophet Elijah appointing his successor. At God's command, Elijah chooses Elisha to take his place. Elijah throws his cloak, the symbol of his prophet's vocation, over Elisha's shoulders. With no questions asked, Elisha mmediately says farewell to his family and destroys his oxen and plow. He drops everything to follow God's call.


Reading 2 Reflection:
When Elisha gave up everything to do God's will, he must have felt truly free. In our second reading, Paul reminds the Galatians that Christians have been called to live in freedom. Those who have accepted Christ follow his example of love. Those who listen to the "flesh"?whatever urges them to act against God's will?are still slaves. They act against their own best interests when they listen to the voice of selfishness.

Gospel Reflection:

Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem. He is preparing himself to face suffering and death. He forgives the Samaritans who refuse to welcome him, showing his disciples how to behave toward their enemies. He then responds to three different people who want to follow him. Does he say, "Come with me and all will be well?" Not at all. Jesus tells them right up front that the cost of becoming his disciple is high. That cost may include giving up home, family, and means of income.