Friday 1st May – Memorial of St Joseph the Worker

Reflection: Matthew 13: 54-58

DO NOT GIVE IN TO DISCOURAGEMENT

While growing up I knew a young man who when he began pursuing a career in soccer, was considered an unserious and irresponsible person who did not know what to do with his life. He was not spared from such negative reputation even in his own family. Several times he was beaten by his parents after returning from the field because they saw what his was doing as a waste of time and other times, because of his stubbornness, Yet, his passion for soccer kept him going and today he is a great footballer who plays for the Nigerian national team. Emmanuel Emenike is now the star of his family and a pride to the nation at large.

As young people, we sometimes experience similar situations. We are in a revolutionary age and have a desire to make decisions in every area of our lives – socially, culturally and in our spiritual lives. Sometimes, pursuing our passion can lead to rejection or lack of encouragement and support from our loved ones. Jesus suffered something similar in his own life on earth. He was rejected even by his own people who could not see anything extraordinary about him.

Beloved, we must never stop striving for excellence in our calling and passion in life as long as it will be bring glory to God. Never forget Jesus’ words: “A prophet is not respected in his hometown.” Ask the Lord to help you recognize your purpose so that you may truly live to please Him and never give in to discouragement as you pursue your God-given dream.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, give the determination and passion I need to accomplish my purpose in life. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: CCC 1806: “Prudence is the virtue that disposes reason to discern our true good in every circumstance and to choose the right means of achieving it;  ‘the prudent man looks where he is going.’”

HIDE A TREASURE: “The stone which the builders rejected as worthless turned out to be the most important of all.” Psalm 118:22 GNB

Today’s Readings: Gen 1:26- 2:3 Psalm 90:2-4, 12-16; Matthew 13:54-58