Lc 13,34

How often I wanted to gather your children together, like a hen gathers her own brood under her wings, and you refused!

Like a hen with her chicks

Reflection: Jesus chooses a very tender image to speak of himself: a hen spreading her wings to gather her chicks. He says it knowing that Jerusalem will reject him. Even so, his words are not angry reproach but the pain of a love that has been refused. God never stops wanting to shelter his children.

For you: Sometimes we run from those wings: too busy, too sad, or feeling unworthy. But his wings are still open. Today, which corner of your life needs sheltering, and will you let the Lord hold you close?

Living the Word: Spend three minutes sitting still and imagine yourself sheltered under God’s wings, with no need to say anything more.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you always want to gather and shelter us. Forgive the times we have run away, and help us to come back and rest under the wings of your love. Amen.