Saturday of the 4th Week of Lent
Jeremiah 11:18-20 | Psalm 7:2-3,9-12 | John 7:40-52
Prophets do not come out of Galilee. (John 7:52)
We tend to make snap judgements about others’ abilities, based on their declared backgrounds. In my consulting career, I’ve often had to stop myself from summarily terminating a job interview after a quick glance at the interviewee’s CV, instead trying to find a “jewel in the rough” who might complement my client’s existing team.
Of course, it’s often the case that the candidate simply won’t work out, but just as prophets have come out of Galilee (Jonah comes to mind), an unimpressive résumé may hide a keen mind who would be an asset to my client.
Likewise, one thing that drives me each night in Lectio Divina is finding that “jewel in the rough” from my experiences during the day. Perhaps it’s a chance encounter with the less fortunate, or a misreading of a HUGE poster outside a shopping mall:
Yes, Lord, help me make a playground of all the TRIALS I face,
instead of moaning and groaning about the unfairness of it all.
Whatever it might be, when the next day’s scripture triggers that memory, it’s as if God is gently tapping me on the shoulder and whispering, “see how much love and joy can be in your life?”
How can I keep from writing?
My life flows on in endless song;
Above earth’s lamentation,
I hear the real, tho’ far-off hymn
That hails a new creation;
Through all the tumult and the strife
I hear that music ringing;
It sounds an echo in my soul—
How can I keep from singing?
Amen.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AH72dgNSAsw