Reflect on making a similar request to Jesus. Ask to be close to Him in His Kingdom, understanding that the path to glory involves selfless sacrifice. Be willing to endure whatever it takes—suffering, persecution, or personal sacrifice—to follow Jesus. Imagine yourself walking with the disciples and Jesus to Jerusalem, where He would offer His life in sacrifice. James followed this path, ultimately dying for his faith. Say "Yes" to whatever Jesus asks of you and commit to a life of selfless sacrificial love. This will allow you to share in the glory of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Reflect on God's desire to speak to you. If you struggle to hear His voice, spend time with Jesus' parables. Imagine yourself in the scenes. See your inner self as the field. Identify what prevents your soul from being rich soil. Let Jesus' stories speak to you. Listen for God's voice. As you do, know that His word is starting to take root in your heart.

Reflect on Jesus' words as an invitation to join His family. He wants you to belong and to find your identity in Him. By seeking full obedience to God's will, you can strengthen your relationships with others who also follow God's will. Rejoice in the bond created by mutual obedience to God and cherish these relationships with gratitude.

Reflect on Mary Magdalene's holy life. She turned away from sin and devoted herself entirely to Jesus, receiving His immense love in return. May we strive to imitate her by leaving behind our sins and becoming deeply devoted to Jesus.

Reflect on this vast crowd. Imagine being among them, driven by a desire to hear Jesus' teachings. If you find it hard to feel this way, acknowledge that you may need more zeal for Jesus in your life. Pray for these holy desires to grow within you, and do what you can to foster such zeal.

Reflect today on your own expectations of God. Do you have a long list of things you think God should do? Do you pray for your ideas, thinking that if you ask enough, God will grant your requests? If your requests flow from His perfect will, praying for them in faith will bring them about. But if they flow from your own ideas of what God should do, all the prayers in the world will not bring them to be. If this is your struggle, try to start anew by turning your eyes to the Servant Who Suffers for the salvation of all. Reflect on the fact that God's thoughts and ways are often very far above your own. Humble yourself before the Suffering Servant and abandon all ideas that do not flow from His Heart.

Reflect on any tendencies you have toward being judgmental and condemning. Think about the Pharisees' self-righteousness, which was harmful and ugly. Let their negative example inspire you to reject judgment and condemnation.

Reflect on your call to serve in Christ. How is God calling you to serve, and whom is He calling you to serve? Do you see service as a burden, or do you recognize it as your true purpose? If service feels burdensome, it may be because you haven't fully embraced serving with and in Christ. Consider accepting Jesus' yoke and the mission of humble service He entrusts to you. Embracing this wholeheartedly will not only refresh you but also give your life meaning and purpose.

Reflect today on Jesus praising the Father as He witnesses faith in His followers. When Jesus looks at you, what does He see? Does He issue rebukes, or does His Sacred Heart rejoice and give praise? Bring joy to the Heart of Christ by humbling yourself to be counted among the childlike who truly know and love God.

Reflect on whether Jesus' rebuke of these towns applies to you. Have you been blessed with good faith formation? Have you nourished your faith and grown in your love for God, or have you let your faith wane? If you have been given much, God expects much in return. Respond to God with all your heart.