Homily for Saturday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time

Flexibility is a good gift because things do not always go as planned. In the morning, we intend to accomplish certain tasks by the end of the day, but sometimes, those tasks remain unfinished. On a larger scale, we might have envisioned specific plans for our lives that have not come to fruition for various reasons. Such experiences can lead to feelings of despair. Still, we also have the option to respond differently and move beyond disappointment or frustration.

Jesus experienced similar situations with His plans and those of His followers. As we heard in today's Gospel, He intended to take them to a deserted place for quiet prayer and reflection because they had been so busy that they barely had time to eat or pray. However, when they arrived at that secluded spot, they found it crowded with people who had gotten there before them.

Jesus' response to the disruption of His plans was not anger or resentment. Instead, "His heart was moved with pity for them... and He began to teach them many things." His plans needed to change because a situation arose that aligned with God's larger purpose.

Whenever our plans go off-kilter, we should remain open to the possibility that something better can replace them. Being flexible allows us to see greater opportunities beyond our own desires. Ultimately, God's plan is always more important than our personal plans. When we have to set aside our own goals and dreams, we should pray for the Lord's life-giving purpose for our lives to prevail.