Gn 3:1-8 Ps 32:1-2, 5, 6, 7 Mk 7:31-37

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections

There are times when I feel blind, deaf, and mute to life around me. I am not speaking literally, but rather figuratively. It always seemed to be a time when I am busy and stressed; times when my focus seems to be limited within the tunnel that is my daily schedule and self-absorption. With such focus I am limited to what I see and hear, and will often refrain from speaking against the norm. Today’s Gospel served as a reminder to me the awesomeness and responsibility that comes with the very senses we receive from God.

In the Gospel, Jesus gave a man his sight, hearing, and speech. Jesus simply touched the man “and immediately the man's ears were opened, his speech impediment was removed, and he spoke plainly.” Literally and figuratively an incredible feat was accomplished! In a matter of seconds the man’s senses were restored to what some people take years to achieve. The way I see it, it is through the Holy Spirit and Christ’s humanity that our senses are alive. We are given our senses to be used as we see fit. Some people are blessed with senses that are stronger than other senses, maybe even to compensate for a lost, or impaired sense. However and whatever our strengths are, we should use our gifts. It is through these gifts that we can truly appreciate life and our relationships to others.

I feel as though I have a sure responsibility that comes with my blessings. I have a responsibility to refrain from a lifestyle that will inhibit my sight, hearing, and ability to speak. It is important for me to be able to see beyond my daily lifestyle and into the lives of others. It is important for me to be able to hear calls for justice and equality; and it is important for me to be able to speak out in response and action for what I have seen and heard. I feel as though I must play my part to help those who wish, to see, hear, and speak.