Lectio Divina – October 9, 2023 | Monday of the Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

“But Jonah made ready to flee away from the Lord. However, hurled a violent wind upon the sea, and in the furious tempest that arose the ship was on the point of breaking up.” – Jonah 1:1-2

Proper of Readings for the Monday of the Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reflection by Sis Aliyah Cabrera

Being in a technology-driven generation, we often receive calls from our family members, friends, and even peculiar individuals through different communication systems. As the phone continues to ring, we are left with two choices: accept or decline. The scenario is similar to the story of Jonah, a prophet of God. He was used to being sent out by God and he would quickly comprehend its purpose. However, when God tells him to go to Nineveh to declare judgment and call for repentance, he runs away. It is easy to make fun of Jonah’s fickle and rashness but if we were only honest to ourselves, Jonah is a fitting reflection of us.

At times, following God seems to be difficult to fulfill. There are times when we are faced with temptations and distractions. There are also times when we think we know better than what God has planned for us. Because of this, we make hasty and irresponsible decisions leading us to feel anxious, disappointed, and broken. As YFIA members, there are numerous temptations and distractions that come in our way. It may be our friends inviting us to go eat, subscriptions in video-streaming services, events, and a lot more. These things greatly entice us to not attend our Lectio Divina, Monthly Catechisms, and Holy Masses. Despite our continuous and persistent fleeing from God, He does not simply throw us away. Instead, our denial only makes Him pursue us more. Similar to what He did to Jonah, He will take our brokenness, lack of resolve, failings, and weaknesses to use them for His glory and His perfect plan. Every time we run away from God; He will always have His ways for us to come back to Him. He will always wait for our return to Him.

Points of Reflection:

1. Have you ever received a call from God?

2. How many times did you respond with a “YES” or “NO” to Him?

3. Are you brave enough to answer His call?

Final Prayer

Almighty God, as you call for us, may you keep our eyes, ears, and heart to respond to you with courage and humility. At times when we are frightened and anxious to accept your calling, give us the grace and bravery to keep on saying “yes” to you. As we fulfill our calling, may you always be a shining light that will guide us throughout. May we be an effective agent of healing, bearers of truth, and agents of hope to our brothers and sisters. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

About the Contributor

SIs Aliyah Cabrera is a member of YFIA Movement in the Philippines and currently a Grade 12 student of NU-Nazareth School.