Obedience Is Not Easy

Obeying an order is never easy, especially when the order is somewhat, at least in our opinion, is questionable. That is why last Sunday's mass was a real eye opener for me. 

August 26, 2012 
     First reading : Joshua 24:1-2a,15-17,18b 
     Responsorial Psalm : Psalm 34
     Second reading : Ephesians 5:21-32
     Gospel : John 6:60-69

The second reading tells us about how husbands and wives should submit to each other. Yeah right, as if that would happen. I could almost hear the wives saying "why should I submit to him? I'm smarter, better and earns more than him!". Then the husband will ask "why would I give up my life for her?".

The teachings of Jesus Christ are sometimes hard to accept. That is why, in the gospel, many of His followers left Him and went back to their old ways. When Jesus asked His disciples if they also wish to leave, Peter gave the best reason why they, and all who believe in Jesus, will stay with Him.

John 6:68-69 - Simon Peter answered him, "Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God."

This reminds me of a story I once read.

One day, God showed me a rock. He told me to push it as hard as I can. I did it for many years but nothing happened. So I told God "Sorry, I failed to do it". God replied "Child, your task is only to push, not to move it".

God doesn't want us to suffer. He only wants us to follow, learn and see how His mighty power works.

Just like the man in the story, I also tried to push "the rock". I'm still pushing, but it just won't budge, but as I follow His commands, I experience His love and power working through me and my family. This is why, like Joshua said in the first reading, as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.

Responsorial Psalm : Taste and see the goodness of the Lord!