Repetition versus Routine

I notice a pattern in recent gospel readings of the past few days: Jesus speaks to the crowds; he gets on a boat and crosses to the others to be alone in prayers; still the crowds follow Him seeking His healing and liberating presence; He performs His works of wonders; the people are overcome with amazement; He tells them to tell no one.

This pattern is a repetition not routine. Routine begets boredom and ennui. Repetition breeds perfection and freedom. Routine is a mindless going through the motions of a pattern. Repetition is the mindful doing of something important and significant.

I pray in faith repeatedly even when I am beset by doubts and shadows; for I know my faith is a gift that came with my life. In God’s time, I will attain and see what it is I believe in.

I keep on giving and sharing repeatedly even when I am beset by my greed and selfishness; for there are times I become afraid of not having enough for myself. In God’s time, I will see and be blessed by the fruits of my love and service.

I repeatedly speak words of love and do deeds of caring even when I feel like speaking out in anger and acting out in hate; for there are moments of weakness I simply want to give up trying. In God’s time, I will see and experience the ecstasy and the full splendor of what true is and means.

They will praise you, Lord, who long for you.
~ Psalm 22

When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side,
a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea.
One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward.
Seeing him he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying,
“My daughter is at the point of death.
Please, come lay your hands on her
that she may get well and live.”
He went off with him
and a large crowd followed him.
Mark 5:21-43