“Shake It Out,” Florence + the Machine, Ceremonials, Island Records
Gospel Reflection for September 30, 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Jesus asks his followers to leave behind the things that hold them back and welcome those who heal in his name. Leaving behind bad habits or negative influences can seem almost as hard as losing an eye or a limb, as Jesus talks about in this Sunday’s gospel reading. “Shake It Out” is a song about letting go of the things that hold us back from becoming the person we want to be.
Key lines: And I am done with my graceless heart/So tonight I’m gonna cut it out and then restart/’Cause I like to keep my issues strong/It’s always darkest before the dawn
Questions: When have you received help or compassion from an unexpected place? How does Jesus’ example inspire you to care for others? What challenges do you face in trying to follow Jesus? What distracts you from your spiritual practices? What is something you could eliminate to make your life more joyful?