On the way they entered a Samaritan village
to prepare for his reception there,
but they would not welcome him.

Luke 9:52-53

Luke 9:51-56

Reflection

Today’s Gospel calls to mind how I reject – occasionally or frequently – Jesus. Jesus decides to journey to Jerusalem and sends messengers ahead of him. When they arrive at a Samaritan village, they aren’t welcomed because of their final destination. How many times do I reject Jesus’ entry into my heart, my life?

He always journeys with me, wanting to be fully welcomed, yet does not punish me if I refuse him, just as he rebuked James and John for wanting to punish the Samaritans. Jesus wants to bring us to the heavenly Jerusalem, our final destination, but we have to be willing to receive him first.

In order to journey with Jesus, we must prepare our hearts to receive him, even when we don’t want to. There may be a million reasons for not allowing Jesus into our hearts or lives at a particular time, but he is constantly waiting for us to simply turn to him and say ‘yes.’

Reflect on the ways in which you reject Jesus; perhaps out of fear, anger, feelings of unworthiness or embarrassment. Speak to him today and ask for the grace to slowly and gently open your heart to him in those wounded areas once more, allowing him to heal you. Let’s journey towards our heavenly destination together, with our Lord.

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Saint of the Day

St. Thérèse of Lisieux: 1873-1897

“I desire to suffer for love and even to rejoice through love; and in this way I shall strew flowers before Your throne.”

St. Thérèse, Story of a Soul