Reflection for Wednesday of the Twenty-second Week in Ordinary Time

The readings for Wednesday of the Twenty-second Week in Ordinary Time challenge us to reflect on our role in God's plan. In the first reading, from 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Saint Paul reminds the Corinthians that they are God's field and God's building. He and Apollos are simply ministers through whom they came to believe. Paul emphasizes that neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who causes the growth.

This passage reminds us that we are all part of God's plan, and that each of us has a unique role to play. We may not always see the fruits of our labor, but we can be confident that God is working through us to build his kingdom.

In the Gospel reading, from Luke 4:38-44, Jesus heals Simon's mother-in-law and many others who are sick and possessed by demons. This passage shows us that Jesus is the Messiah, the one who has come to heal and liberate us from all that binds us.

When we reflect on these two readings together, we are challenged to ask ourselves: How am I participating in God's plan? How am I using my gifts and talents to build his kingdom? Am I open to being healed and liberated by Jesus?

Here are some specific questions we can ask ourselves:

• What are my gifts and talents? How can I use them to serve others and build up the Church?
• Am I willing to let go of my own plans and desires in order to follow God's will?
• Am I open to being healed and liberated by Jesus from all that binds me?

As we reflect on these questions, let us pray for the grace to be faithful stewards of God's gifts and to be instruments of his healing and love in the world.