January 17, 2025 // Memorial of Saint Anthony, abbot
Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: Mark 2:1-12
Reflect on the Word//
“Do you know this airport well?” The timid question came from the friendly face next to mine, mere inches away as we braced against the jostling of the overcrowded train. She glanced quizzically at a terminal map on her phone screen. I smiled and nodded: “I’m from here.” Relief shone in her eyes. “How do I get to West Baggage Claim?”
I didn’t love crowds, and we were packed in like sardines. Normally I would hang back and let the sea of bodies surge again when it was time to disembark to avoid the even more frenzied chokepoint at the escalators. Today, however, I had a mission. I offered to lead the way, directing my new friend to “stay close” as we pressed through the crowd. At the top of the escalators I pointed her toward her destination and she expressed her immense gratitude. Though the crowds were overbearing, my heart that day was light and free.
It’s striking to imagine how engaging and charismatic Jesus must have been to attract such a crowd Himself—people voluntarily pressed against each other merely to hear His words (see Mark 2:2). They were packed in so tightly that it was easier for the paralytic’s friends to break through the roof than through a wall of people. Yet where others would simply give up and turn away, these friends were wholly undeterred. They allowed nothing to discourage them from getting to Jesus—for love of their friend and propelled by unquestioning faith in Him.
How often do we give up on prayer or turn back from pursuing Jesus at the slightest hint of resistance? How much are we willing to fight through discomfort and persevere to reach Him? It’s tempting to believe the lies that prioritizing time with Jesus might be selfish, take away from others, or even take away from those who need you. Yet it’s the opposite. Unapologetically making time for Jesus benefits everyone in your life because of what He can then do through you. And sometimes, when the resistance seems most overwhelming, the greatest breakthroughs and miracles await on the other side.
Relate to the Lord // Make time for Jesus today by staying a few extra minutes in prayer right now.
Megan Hjelmstad is a wife, enthusiastic hockey mom, and Army Veteran living in Denver, CO. In her “spare” time she serves as a Catholic Writer, Speaker, and Women’s Mentor, helping women to embrace their God-given dignity and deepen their prayer relationship with the Lord. She is the author Offer it Up: Discovering the Power and Purpose of Suffering, a writer for SpiritualDirection.com, and a longtime team member of Blessed is She. Megan adores books, sleep, sunshine, and Colorado’s great outdoors almost as much as she adores Jesus in the Eucharist. Learn more at MeganHjelmstad.com.
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