Let’s reflect on the nature of our work!
The readings for the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time prompt us to look at how
we view our work and daily responsibilities. Whether we are employed by a
company, own a business, or work from home, work is inherently challenging.
While we desire ease, comfort, and happiness in our work, this is often not the
case. Duties and deadlines can be stressful , but the real challenge of work lies
in our interactions with those around us: our superiors, colleagues, and even
family members. These relationships affect our attitudes towards work.
In today’s Gospel, the disciples return from their mission, exhausted and
hungry. Recognizing their need for rest, Jesus invites them to retreat to a
deserted place. However, their attempt to find solitude is interrupted by the
crowd, who figures out their destination and arrives ahead of them. Despite being
tired, Jesus seeing the crowd as “sheep without a shepherd,” in the spirit of true
service and with compassion, sets aside His needs and teaches them. Jesus’
actions also teach us that our work and ministry are not merely about completing
tasks or fulfilling duties but about serving others with compassion and empathy.
Service, as exemplified by Jesus, means attending to the needs and demands of
others, even when it is inconvenient or exhausting.
In our daily lives, we often encounter situations that test our patience and
love. Whether dealing with a demanding boss, uncooperative colleagues, or
balancing work with family responsibilities, these interactions can significantly
shape our work experience. Jesus’ example encourages us to approach these
challenges with a spirit of service and view them as opportunities to demonstrate
kindness, understanding, and support.
Moreover, Jesus’ insistence on rest for His disciples highlights the
importance of self-care in our service to others. While it is noble to serve, it is
also essential to recognize our limits and our need for respite. Burnout not only
diminishes our capacity to serve effectively but also impacts our well-being. By
balancing service with self-care, we can sustain our energy and enthusiasm in
our work.
Dear brothers and sisters, through the example of Jesus, we learn that true
service is about meeting the needs of others with compassion and empathy. By
embracing a spirit of service and balancing it with self-care, our work, despite the
challenges, can truly be a fulfilling and meaningful endeavor. Let us strive to
serve others as Jesus did, with a compassionate heart, seeing every interaction
as an opportunity to make a positive impact.
Fr. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor