Sunday Reflection: How to do a "deed of power"

Today's reflection is brought to you by

Mark 9:38-41.

O God,

you invite us all

to do your will,

to do the right thing.

And your son,

our brother,

Jesus, 

talked about

the one who follows him 

as someone who does a

"deed of power."

It's easy for us to think

that we can't do 

those Jesus kinds of things --

healings, 

exorcisms,

or calming storms.

But is Jesus telling us today

that we are selling ourselves short?

If giving a cup of water

to a thirsty soul

is notable 

in Jesus' books,

could getting vaccinated

to protect the vulnerable among us

also be a deed of power?

Could holding a door for a stranger?

We just don't think that way. 

We look to the miraculous 

as deeds of power.

But could seeing

and acknowledging

the pain and struggle 

of those among us who are hurting

help lead to healing?

Could praying for the sick

make a difference?

Could it be that

listening to angry souls 

express their rage and hurt

might be a deed of power?

Could acting upon 

what caused that hurt and rage

be necessary to exorcise

the injustices 

that have wounded 

so many among us?

Could just being present

to those who feel isolated in their anguish

help to calm their storms?

O God,

show us

where we can be your instruments

and do your deeds of power,

even when 

they are less miraculous than we think;

even if 

they seem beyond our abilities.

+Amen

* * * * * * *

Please, if you have a spare prayer, say one for the healing of my youngest, Jay, who will undergo surgery tomorrow. Thanks.