Jb 7:1-4, 6-7 Ps 147:1-2, 3-4, 5-6 1 Cor 9:16-19, 22-23 Mk 1:29-39

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections

It seems that it's that time of year again. The time in which New Year's resolutions have worn off, winter is on our last nerves, and it seems to be a miracle to get through the day. It doesn't matter whom we are or how old we are, keeping the faith during the monotonous routine of daily life challenges us all. I know when my days get to be so busy and the daily tasks are the first priority, I feel as if I am failing God, those around me, and myself. I spend more time figuring out what I will have for dinner and when will I ever get a chance to sit down and eat it than I do in conversation with God. This disappointment becomes an endless cycle, feeding off of itself, and working to discourage me from keeping the focus on what is important in life.

Maybe it's just me, but this year seems different. This year seems to be the year in which people want to change themselves and the world around them for the better. Everyone seems to have a little more patience, a little more focus, and a few more smiles to share. I think after the challenges we have recently endured we are ready to make things better, even if it is on a small scale. Thus, after we have given it a month, we need inspiration and reassurance. Today's scripture provides that for me. Job shares his misery with us and eloquently states how life can take its toll on an individual. St. Paul is once again reminding us to follow God and share His word with others. Finally, Jesus shows us he will not turn us away, even if He has to come to us. I am most inspired by St. Paul's message. "To the weak I became weak, to win over the weak. ?I have become all things to all, to save at least some." Despite his travels, being persecuted, and the mission He has been given from God to work with the Church, he still finds the strength in his heart to relate individually with those around him not for his own sake, but because he knows it is what He is meant to do as a disciple of Christ. Furthermore, his words today reassure us that if we take the time to make God and others a priority, we will make it to the Promised Land. I can't help but be reminded of the homily I heard on Christmas Eve. The only thing I remember is what our pastor had to say about joy. He told us it stands for Jesus, Others, Us and if we follow this model, it will bring us the joy we wish to have. Over a month later, I am reminded of this acronym almost daily and it helps see me through.

Through today's scriptures, I am getting the nod from Jesus that I am doing okay and to keep going. I think we all are, in our way, and it is now our challenge from Christ to breathe and reboot. Take the time we need to refocus ourselves to Him and His mission instead of us and our mission. When we do so, we will be one step closer to true joy.