“Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you,
Luke 10:20
but rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”
Reflection
The seventy-two disciples return after proclaiming the Gospel to various towns. They are excited that even demons are subject to them because of Jesus’ name. At this, Jesus tells them they should rejoice because their names are written in heaven, not because they can drive out demons. Jesus then praises his Father, and tells the disciples they are blessed to witness all these things in their time.
Jesus points out something important to his disciples that is useful for us – instead of rejoicing that they can drive out demons, they should be joyful that their names are written in heaven. Jesus turns them away from pride and moves them towards humility and awe at the goodness of God.
We can easily become prideful when doing good things in Christ’s name. While we can give the glory to God, it is in our human nature to also become prideful, too. Jesus beckons us to instead rejoice at our heavenly reward, not an earthly one. Humility is a sure way to heaven and eternal union with our God – how can you practice it today?
Saint of the Day
St. Theodora Guerin: 1798 – 1856
| “Indeed it is very difficult, and it requires an uncommon virtue, not to make others suffer when we suffer. Bear with the defects of other. Endeavor not to cause others to suffer and you yourself try to endure the little annoyances which are unavoidable in the necessary relations with others.” St. Theodora Guerin |
