Our gospel reading gives us a glimpse of what Jesus accomplished on an ordinary day in his public ministry. Here are what the Gospel mentioned about his preoccupations in a days' work. First, Jesus preaches. He teaches in the synagogue most probably about the values of the kingdom of God, or things about his heavenly Father, and other practical things on loving others and living the call to holiness. Then, Jesus performed many healing miracles. Just like what the Gospel prescribes: he cured Simon's mother-in-law. And when neighbors and people from the village heard of his presence, they brought many sick people to the doorsteps, healing their illnesses and casting out demons from those possessed with evil spirits.

Look at how accommodating Jesus is by making himself always available for the sake of others. He should have been having a good time to chill and relax after teaching people in their synagogues; but he felt obliged to heal Simon's mother-in-law by approaching, grasping her hand, and helping her up until the fever left her. Jesus is practically living the moment. He was not living and acting with a fixed schedule. Even when it was already at sunset, when physical tiredness weakened him, Jesus went on responding to the needs of people when they began to gather at the door with their friends and relatives who needed healing.

What do we get from these? Our days are not always neat, according to our drawn-out plans and schedules. We should be ready to be surprised with what is presented before us, making ourselves available and obliging to deal with it squarely.

Another significant thing about the Gospel reading is this: it shows us the resource from which Jesus will draw all the strength to complete all his demanding mission. Even he attends to people’s needs beyond the sunset, Jesus rises early the next day and spends the first hours with his Father. This relationship with God is his anchor.

It teaches us one thing. No matter how long and demanding our days might become, let us not forget to have time to reconnect ourselves to the genuine anchor and source of our strength. We need to find time to silent our body and mind as well as interact with our true source of strength and hope in our moments of prayer. In this way, we will never lose focus on our life's mission. And in humility, we know that we need guidance and strength from God.

Someone came to vent out her frustrations and sufferings. She said: “Every day, I am always busy with a lot of things: I cook breakfast, clean the house, wash dishes and clothes, run to the market and grocery. I take care of my children too. In the afternoon, I am already weak and tired. I no longer have time for myself; prayer is not anymore a part of my life. I feel like life is a burden.”

Another one came sharing what her day is like. She said, "I am always busy every day. I cook food for my family, wash dishes and clothes, run to the market for things to cook. Take care of my kids. In the afternoon I feel tired and weak. But never did I forget to pray. In silence, I am refreshed and strengthened. I do not feel alone. I am always rejuvenated and ready for another busy working day."

My dear brothers and sisters, we are all busy every day! We all get tired from the day's toil and work. But are we finding time to stop, keep silent, and communicate with our God in prayer? Let us turn to Jesus, saying, "Lord, you are showing us that the more intense one's activities are, the more one should pray. Help us to reflect on this. Amen."