June 5, 2013

First Reading – Tobit 2:9-14

God sends trials and tribulations to test us.  He would test us for days, weeks, months, even years.  How we would respond is up to us.  It is difficult to remain virtuous in the face of difficulties but it is through difficulties that our true character is develop.  We have the choice to be miserable or remain steadfast in faith during the time of testing.

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Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 112:1-2,7-9

The heart of the just one is firm, trusting the Lord

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Gospel: Mark 12:13-17

Think…We should respect two authorities in our lives.  The authority of the government and that of God.

Reflection…”God chose our leaders too.”

While growing up, we are taught to respect different authorities.  As a child, we are to respect our parents.  They are our caretakers and leaders.  The moment we enter school, we meet other authorities like teachers and school administrators.  We can’t function in this society well without recognizing different authorities in our lives.  It is clear that even Jesus does not put himself above the authority of men who were leaders during his time.  He is teaching us how to live and relate to the people whom God chose to be our leaders.

Leaders, from parents to government officials are God’s representative on earth.  While it is true that not all leaders are Godly, we still have the responsibility to respect these men and women and give them the respect they deserve.

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God our Father, we may not always agree with our parents, our superiors, and our government officials, but remind us to always regard to them with respect.  Prompt us to give the respect due them even if we don’t always agree with them, or even like them.  We each have a role to play in the society, and we are all leaders and followers in some way or another.  How we relate to our earthly leaders eventually reflect how we relate to You.