In today’s Gospel we see that just as Our Lord continues to preach the message he entrusted to John the Baptist, so he begins to call the apostles who would learn it and transmit it to future generations. The readings remind today today that we all have a calling, and if we follow it we can achieve true fulfillment in life by working with Our Lord to help others receive the Gospel and be saved. Hannah in the First Reading is sad because she feels her calling to motherhood, but seems unable to achieve it. She loves her husband, but she knows a call to marriage is also a call to motherhood. Mothers are the first teachers of faith and love to their children.
When we sense a calling it strikes a chord in us, but as a vocation, not just for priests and consecrated persons, but for everyone, we know it not only appeals to our likes, but challenges us as well. If we feel challenged it is a sign that it comes from beyond us even though it seems it might suit us if we embrace it. John the Baptist knew prophets were also destined for martyrdom, but he didn’t shy away from his calling. Our Lord invites us to follow him in some way, and we are free to decline, but we’ll always see it as a missed opportunity if we do. Our Lord works with us to plan our lives and we should always be open to his input.
Ask Our Lord today to help you see the life you should lead. You won’t regret it.
Readings: 1 Samuel 1:1–8; Psalm 116:12–19; Mark 1:14–20.