How often have we been involved in a project that became pure drudgery? Job speaks from what some would call a pessimistic viewpoint. Yet ultimately Job recognizes he is not in a position to challenge how God creation and even aspects of his life. While we may or may not equate our experiences with Job’s complaint. Job at this point is feeling abandoned. Life has not recently delt him a winning hand. It’s amazing when things are going wrong, we seem to quickly forget the good things in life we have experienced. At such times we are challenged to recognize the blessings we have experienced from God.
When we share the good news of Jesus with others, do we expect compliments, criticisms, apathy? Paul reminds us that doing what we have been called to do is not for compliments or pats on the back. We do what Jesus has told us simply because he told us to do such. When we are criticized because we proclaim the Gospel, do we feel slighted or unappreciated. Jesus, said we will be persecuted for proclaiming the truth of our faith. Yet, if our faith means anything to us, how can we not proclaim it?
In the Gospel of Mark, we hear of the healing of Simon Peter’s mother-in-law. While there is no mention of his wife or children, the most common death for women/children was in childbirth. Interestingly Jesus expresses his mission in clear terms, “Let us go on to the nearby villages that I may preach there also. For this purpose have I come.” Do we understand our purpose in life? Or do we bounce around from one hobby or career to another without any focus? Being a disciple of Jesus, gives us at least one purpose to focus on. We all are called to bring the news of Jesus to others in one form or another. That purpose doesn’t mean we will have an easier life or even a fulfilling life in earthly terms. Let us respond to the call from Jesus to make a difference in the world, even if only a little difference.
Countenance of God 