“The evils of our world — and those of the Church — must not be excuses for diminishing our commitment and our fervor. Let us look upon them as challenges which can help us to grow.” - Daily Bible Reflections March 8,2016

EXCUSES

 

       “I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up. While I am on my way, someone else gets down there before me.” – John 5:7

       “Sir, the line at the train station was very long. I wasn’t able to take the first available ride,” Gel replied when I asked why he was late again.

      There are people who blame others or situations for things they should be responsible for. They point fingers at others or see situations taking control over them. In short, they find excuses.

         Just like the man in today’s Gospel. He wants to be healed but finds an excuse — somebody else gets into the pool ahead of him. This may be the reason Jesus asked him, “Do you want to be healed?”

       Friend, do you really want to change? Stop blaming others. Just do what you need to do! Start leaving early for appointments so you won’t be late. Dispose of rubbish properly so our drains don’t clog when it rains. Use pedestrian lanes instead of crossing anywhere. Follow traffic rules even if there is no traffic enforcer in sight.

       Start with yourself now. As the Bible says, “God did not give us a spirit of timidity but one of power, love and self-discipline”

(2 Timothy 1:7). Danny Tariman (dtariman.loj@gmail.com)

 

Pope Francis Says:“The evils of our world — and those of the Church — must not be excuses for diminishing our commitment and our

fervor. Let us look upon them as challenges which can help us to grow.”

 

Lord, give me the strength of self-discipline that I may not blame others.

 

St. John of God, religious, pray for us.