The story of Joseph and the multi-coloured coat that is told in today's first reading (cf Gn 37:3-4, 12-13, 17-28) is among the most well-known of the Old Testament adventures, yet how often have we actually taken the time to consider that the pride that Israel took in his beloved son (cf Gn 37:3) is the same as the pride that God takes in each one of us? There is a danger though in our being the beloved of God, and that is that we run the risk of becoming the object of much jealousy unless we remind those who share our journey through this life that each and every one of us is a beloved child of God.
On the other hand, how often have we found ourselves in the role of Israel's other sons: the ones who were not his favorites? When jealousy enters our hearts, it has the power to blind us to the gifts of love and forgiveness. Jealousy has no place in a heart that is filled with love. Jealousy leaves no room for anyone or anything else. It is entirely self-serving.
Give thanks today for the great gift that God has already shared with each one of us by allowing us to be known as his precious daughters and sons! If we begin with such words of praise, perhaps we will be able to cultivate a new way of seeing the world around us: not so much guided by jealousy but rather by love and forgiveness.
Have a great day.
No comments:
Post a Comment