Commentary on the Gospel of
It is often said: “Be careful as to what you pray for. You might receive it.” It might mean that not everything we ask for is good for us. It could also mean that we might ask for a lesser good and miss out on a greater good which was ours for the asking.
Today Jesus cautions us against missing out what is truly worth asking for. “Work then, not for perishable food, but for the lasting food which gives eternal life.”
How often we find people frequenting places of worship for financial benefits and physical healing! Not that they are not worth asking for. They definitely are, and the needs of the world are great and diverse indeed! But if only we asked more for “higher things ” as well, things that matter most for the soul! Let us not be satisfied with the many tangible gifts our God gives us. Instead, let us continuously pray and work for the greatest of gifts: the very person of God as our inheritance. Hasn’t he said, “How much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (Luke 11:13)
(Note: This reflection is a revised and updated version of the author’s own reflection for the same readings in the Bible Diary 2013 [Claretian Publications]. All rights reserved. He may be contacted at: frpaulson@gmail.com)
