4th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Listen to his Voice!
Grant us, Lord our God,
that we may honour you with all our mind,
and love everyone in truth of heart.
As we live through these dark winter days, we may be comforted by the words of the Psalmist, who encourages us to listen to the Lord’s voice and not to grumble as the Israelites did at Massah and Meribah in the desert.
In the First Reading, Moses announces a true prophet speaking God’s words and commandments.
In the Gospel, we meet this true prophet in the person of Jesus, who teaches the people with authority, making a deep impression on his audience. Even unclean spirits obey him.
In the Second Reading, Paul, believing that the end of the world is near, encourages the Corinthians in an attempt to free them from all worry. Whatever their marital status, he urges them to focus their undivided attention on the Lord, showing their devotion to him.
This week I may want to pray for all those who find it difficult to listen to God’s voice, especially if God chooses to speak through the people we meet.
Perhaps I can also focus on keeping my full attention on the Lord, trusting that he will help me to avoid distractions from the one thing that matters: listening to him.
