Reflect today on the true needs of those around you

"Come away alone to a deserted place and rest for a while." Mark 6:34

The Twelve had just returned from going to the countryside to preach the gospel. They were tired. Jesus, in his compassion, invites them to come away with him to rest a little. Then they get on a boat to reach a deserted place. But when people learn of this, they hurry on foot to the place where their boat was headed. So when the boat arrives, there is a crowd waiting for them.

Of course, Jesus does not get angry. He does not allow himself to be discouraged by the ardent desire of the people to be with Him and with the Twelve. Instead, the Gospel tells us that when Jesus saw them, "his heart was moved with pity" and he began to teach them many things.

In our life, after having served others well, it is understandable to desire rest. Jesus also desired it for himself and for his apostles. But the only thing that Jesus allowed to “interrupt” His rest was the clear desire of the people to be with Him and to be nourished by His preaching. There is much to learn from this example of our Lord.

For example, there are many times when a parent may want to be alone for a while, yet family problems arise that require their attention. Priests and religious may also have unexpected duties that stem from their ministry which may, at first, appear to interrupt their plans. The same can be said for any vocation or situation in life. We may think we need one thing, but then duty calls and we find we are needed in a different way.

A key to sharing Christ's apostolic mission, be it for our families, Church, community or friends, is to be ready and willing to be generous with our time and energy. It is true that at times prudence will dictate the need for rest, but at other times the call to charity will replace what we perceive as a legitimate need for our rest and relaxation. And when true charity is required of us, we will always find that our Lord gives us the grace necessary to be generous with our time. It is often in those moments when our Lord chooses to use us in ways that are truly transforming for others.

Reflect today on the true needs of those around you. Are there people who would greatly benefit from your time and attention today? Are there any needs that others have that will require you to change your plans and give yourself in a way that is difficult? Don't hesitate to generously give yourself to others. Indeed, this form of charity not only transforms for those we serve, it is often one of the most restful and restorative activities we can do for ourselves as well.

My generous Lord, you have given yourself without reserve. People came to You in their need and you did not hesitate to serve them out of love. Give me a heart that imitates Your generosity and help me to always say “Yes” to the charitable work to which I am called. May I learn to experience great joy in serving others, especially in those unplanned and unexpected life circumstances. Jesus I believe in you.