During the fourth week of Ordinary Time, the readings continue to reflect the themes of encouragement to faith communities and challenges to embrace what is new so that we may maintain what is sacred. Being open to the presence of God in uncertain times figure prominently. Please consider writing your own responses to the readings or reflection questions below, or to reply to other peoples’ contributions. Also, if you know of a person, either religious or lay person, who has modeled the Xaverian way, and wish to share their story, please feel free to add to the comments section. 

(Painting below “Jesus Heals the Gerasene Demoniac”)

Here are the readings for Monday, February 3 from the Letter to the Hebrews and the Gospel of Mark.

Reflect on the prayer, “Prophets of a Future Not Our Own” by Bishop Kenneth Untener.

(Above photo of Brother Plunket Doherty, CFX Teaching at Malden Catholic High School in 1970-Xaverian Brothers)

1. Are we able to be at peace with the idea that our legacy or life’s work may not be remembered by many, or that we may not see the fruits of our labor? How does this apply to anyone charged with forming or educating a young person?
2. If you were a follower of Jesus who witnessed him healing the man with the unclean spirit, would you judge the events that unfolded as a success? What was the source of the onlookers’ fears?
3. A former student once remarked that “Brother Plunket Doherty commanded a roomful of boys with just a look and a whisper.” How can our very dispositions around others be an efficacious way of sharing our faith or understanding of spiritual gifts?