February 15, Monday Weekday

Be kind to me, Lord, and I shall live.-- Psalm 119:77

Mass readings: James 1:1-11 / Mark 8:11-13

Thickheaded, Preconceived Notions

I wonder what kind of sign the Pharisees were looking for. They've heard and seen so much but -- like the rest of us -- they have preconceived ideas about the way things ought to be. (As a child, I had this habit of trying to visualize what our vacation spot might look like when we went on our family trips. Usually imagining incorrectly, I grew out of these childish games and accepted the situation as it was.)

The Pharisees couldn't accept anything that deviated from their training and cultural bonds. No matter what signs Jesus performed, unless those actions were within the narrow scope of their preconceived notions, the Pharisees would never joyfully welcome Our Lord. Limiting ourselves to a narrow set of preconceived ideas about God and His will for us does the same thing.

Prayer: Lord, help me remember You always want only the best for me.