Each of us has longings and desires. Jesus longs for us. He desires to gather us in, like a mother hen, so that we can be close to him.
The readings for Thursday of Week Thirty can be found here
“You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make it drink.” There have been many different versions of this proverb dating back to the twelfth century. Its meaning is obvious. You can’t always force someone to do what they don’t want to do, particularly a stubborn mule.
Perhaps Jesus’ version of this proverb, would be, “The mother hen can gather her chicks, but she can’t make them stay.” That is what he’s saying of those people who reject his invitation and his loving embrace. The imagery is powerful. Jesus has a longing, a deep desire, to gather all beneath his protecting wings. But many choose not to come or stay. Then he provides a prophecy to his Palm Sunday entrance into Jerusalem. ‘You will not see me until you say, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” Days after that welcome they call for his death.
As he walks on the edge of danger, with Herod’s bounty on his head, he continues to long for the children he has come to save. He navigates his way through the dangers presented by that old fox Herod, and the Pharisees who warn him away. His way is not the easy path.
Whilst much may be asked of us, and life may sometimes be difficult, the first calling comes with Jesus gathering us. All we must do is listen to his voice and be warmed by his desire for us. To know that he longs for us for it is to him that we belong. As St Paul’s says, “Nothing can separate us from the love of shod in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Mass today is at Ss Dyfrig and Samson, Grangetown at 10am
South Cardiff Ministry Area 