In today’s reflection for Friday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time, Father Scott Steinkerchner, OP, explores a dramatic contrast between the healing touch of Jesus and the devastating fall of Jerusalem.
While the Gospel shows us the beautiful moment of Jesus healing a leper with a simple touch, the first reading from 2 Kings tells a grim story of King Zedekiah and the siege of Jerusalem. Fr. Scott asks the hard question: How can we find hope in such a bloody debacle?
The answer lies in our ability to listen to God before we back ourselves into a corner. King Zedekiah was warned three times by the prophet Jeremiah to surrender, but his pride led to the destruction of his family and his city. Today, we reflect on the courage it takes to let go of what *we* want so we can embrace what *God* wants for us.
**Key Takeaways:**
* The healing of the leper: The power of simply asking.
* The fall of Jerusalem: Why Zedekiah’s tragic end didn't have to happen.
* The danger of "wanting what we want" at all costs.
* Finding God's will through the Holy Spirit and our conscience.
* The courage to pick up your cross or ask for healing.
**Timeline:**
0:00 Intro: Friday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time
0:15 The Gospel: Jesus Heals a Leper
0:23 The First Reading: The Siege of Jerusalem
0:50 The Tragedy of King Zedekiah
1:24 Finding Hope in a Grim Story
1:34 The Warnings of Jeremiah: Why the outcome could have been different
2:08 Why do we struggle to let go?
2:21 Seeking what God wants for us
2:49 Prayer for courage and discernment
3:10 Conclusion: Following the Spirit’s lead
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Daily Gospel reflections brought to you by the Dominican Friars to provide spiritual guidance, encouragement, and a message of hope.
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