James 1: 12-18; Psalm 94; Mark 8: 14-21
James states, and may we repeat it to those who suffer: God does not tempt us. Our temptation arises from our own desires, disordered desires, Ignatius Loyola would add. Instead, God, the Father of lights, is generous in giving us every good gift. The psalmist responds, “When the cares of my heart are many, you console me, O God.” The mood changes with Jesus. It is one thing for his enemies to taunt him, but his dearest friends just do not understand him. Jesus is really irritated with them. And that is painful, first to be misunderstood and then to be cranky with those you love. Like us in all things! The gospel ends: “Do you not yet understand?” Ask Jesus for understanding, for wisdom, for faith. How will you respond to every good gift, all the consolations when your heart was burdened? Ask for the gift of consoling him. Yes, he needs our understanding and our consoling.
Jesus, the cares of your heart are many Thank you for standing before the face of the Father of lights to beg for your poor people, your burdened people. Let us join you.