A Gospel according the Luke 9:7-9
Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening,
and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying,
“John has been raised from the dead”;
others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”;
still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.”
But Herod said, “John I beheaded.
Who then is this about whom I hear such things?”
And he kept trying to see him.
REFLECTION: "Who then is this about whom I hear such things? And he kept trying to see him."
Funny thing. This phrase seems contrary to something I have been told.
I have heard that if I seek God I will find Him.
So, why couldn't Herod find Jesus?
How or why do we look for Jesus?
I have heard stories from relatives that tell of how during the last century, the most important thing was to be "presentable" during church services (aka, it was a fashion show).
Also from non-denominational friends on how they "got rid" of the pastor because he was not being engaging enough (read: entertaining), and was not meeting the goals of attendance increase projections for the year.
I've even heard from non-denominational Christians, from Protestants, and from Catholics that they don't go to Church/Service/Mass because the pastor/priest is not emotional enough. They don't "feel good" after attending religious services.
So basically, the pastor/priest becomes an entertainer, a motivational speaker.
Herod eventually met Jesus (Lk 23 6-16). But Jesus did not speak to Him. Did not give Herod any "sign". Eventually even Herod mocked Jesus and sent him back to Pilate.
Jesus passed by him, came to him. And Herod simply despised Him.
Before criticizing more, I need to look at myself further.
What do I look for from the Mass?
Do I expect to receive or to give?
What can I give God during the Mass? What does He give me in return? Does He even have to return something to me?
I can only give Him my broken self. I can only silently adore Him during consecration. My thanks will never be sufficient for His sacrifice for me: for His humiliation on becoming food for our body and souls.
Let's pray for saintly priests that promote reverence for the Mass, and bring us to the awe and respect we need to give God at all times, especially when He becomes present at the altar. Let's not miss Jesus coming to us and not recognize and adore Him.
