HUMBLE, DOCILE HEARTS

“Naaman went away angry.” —2 Kings 5:11

“At these words the whole audience in the synagogue was filled with indignation.” —Luke 4:28

In today’s first reading and Gospel passage, the word of prophecy was rejected, as it was met with anger and pride. Both Naaman and the people of Nazareth were right on the brink of being transformed and healed. However, being close wasn’t sufficient. The pride and anger of the people of Nazareth prevented them from receiving a great blessing from the Lord. If not for his humble servants, Naaman likewise would have walked away from a miracle when he was on the verge of receiving what he had been seeking.

You likewise may be right on the brink of receiving the healing or blessing for which you have been longing. If so, this is the right time to beg the Lord for a humble, docile heart. One of Satan’s chief weapons is an appeal to our pride (see 1 Jn 2:16). For example, you may be on the verge of a reconciliation with a spouse or sibling. But your pride is wounded, and so you are tempted to walk away. Your doctor mentions a change in lifestyle that could bring you extra years of life. However, you feel defensive, and the doctor’s advice goes unheeded. Your boss is thinking about offering you a promotion. Yet something at work causes you to explode in a fit of anger, and the boss realizes you are not ready for new responsibilities.

“Keep this in mind…be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger” (Jas 1:19). “Bow humbly under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may lift you high” (1 Pt 5:6).

PRAYER: Lord, displace my pride with Your love. Give me a humble and docile heart. “A heart contrite and humbled, O God, You will not spurn” (Ps 51:19).
PROMISE: “Then will I go in to the altar of God, the God of my gladness and joy.” —Ps 43:4
PRAISE: Sarah stopped postponing Confession.