MATTHEW 8:28-34 WHEN JESUS DISTURBS OUR COMFORT
Year A, Wednesday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Gospel ends on a surprising note. After Jesus frees two men from the power of evil, the people of the town ask Him to leave. Instead of rejoicing that two broken lives have been restored, they are more concerned about the loss of their herd of swine. They choose their possessions over the presence of Jesus.

It is easy to criticize those townspeople, but perhaps we do the same. We often invite Jesus into our lives—until His presence begins to challenge us. We welcome Him as long as He does not ask us to forgive someone who hurt us, give up a sinful habit, change our priorities, or let go of something we value more than Him.

The Gospel asks a very personal question: What am I unwilling to surrender in order to follow Christ? Is it my comfort, my pride, my desire for control, or my attachment to material things? Sometimes we would rather ask Jesus to "leave us alone" than allow Him to transform us.

Jesus never forces His way into our hearts. He waits for our invitation. Today, let us have the courage not only to welcome Him into our lives but also to allow Him to change whatever keeps us from experiencing the freedom and joy He desires for us.

With Love and Prayers

Your Co-Traveler

Father Leo