Wednesday | October 12, 2022
Luke 11:42-46:
Jesus continues his condemnation of the religious leaders. The Pharisees pay tithes but stand in judgment of the people rather than meeting their needs. Attention to themselves is more important than serving others. The scribes use the law of God as a burden by which they control the people rather than teaching the people that the law is a gift from God.
I pray for the leaders of our Church, clergy and lay. May they see that they are called to serve in Jesus’ name.
Tuesday | October 11, 2022
Luke 11:37-41:
Jesus is dining in the home of a Pharisee. His host rudely challenges Jesus about his not performing the “required” hand washing. The Pharisee gets more than he bargained for. Jesus does not answer the question directly but condemns the attitude of all Pharisees who are more concerned with external practices than heartfelt intentions.
I pray to be always aware of what is in my heart and if not good and pure, I pray to be healed.
Monday | October 10, 2022
Luke 11:29-32:
Jesus responds to those asking for signs. There have been signs before, stories familiar to the listeners, that brought people to repentance. And now he who carries the message of salvation stands before them, but they do not listen.
Open my eyes, ears and heart to you. I long to know you and to bring others to you.
Sunday | October 9, 2022
Luke 17:11-19:
The people with leprosy appeal to Jesus having heard about his compassionate nature and his healing power. He does not disappoint. They are healed and follow his instruction to go to the high priest to show themselves so they can return to the community. It is only one, a Samaritan, who goes to Jesus to offer thanks and praise.
You have blessed me in so many ways. I am grateful and I firmly intend to continue to develop and express an attitude of gratitude.
Saturday | October 8, 2022
Luke 11:27-28:
The woman in the crowd correlates Jesus’ words and deeds with the mother who gave birth to him. His response moves the focus away from the significance of blood relationships to spiritual relationships. Those who listen to him and act on it are blessed.
You are our refuge and stronghold O God and for that, we are blessed. Instill within us the openness to hear you and to live accordingly.
Friday | October 7, 2022
Luke 11:15-26:
Some who witnessed Jesus casting out the demon seriously misinterpret his action. Others ask that he do more to convince them of the origin of his power. The division their mistrust creates is their undoing. Jesus responds to their suspicions and hardness of heart by telling them that his power comes from the “finger of God.”
There are times when we tend to lose hope. Please help us remember that because of you good will always triumph over evil.
Thursday | October 6, 2022
Luke 11:5-13:
Jesus emphasizes through story and sayings the importance of persistence in prayer. God will always respond, though not always in the ways expected. God is not cruel. God loves his people and wants only what is best for them.
I am grateful to be able to see, most of the time, that your answer to my prayer may not be what I want but is always what I need.
Wednesday | October 5, 2022
Luke 11:1-4:
The disciples recognize the importance of relationship with God, developed and nurtured through prayer. John taught his followers to pray so Jesus’ disciples ask the same of him. Though a shorter version than in Matthew’s Gospel, the structure and content of the Lord’s Prayer are basically the same. All glory is to be given to God, the Father and all that is needed, sustenance, forgiveness comes from God.
I ask your forgiveness daily for my sins and I know you do so. Help me to forgive others without hesitation or conditions.
Tuesday | October 4, 2022
Luke 10:38-42:
The story of Martha and Mary teaches us that we must listen to, reflect on God’s word and act accordingly by loving and caring for others. The behavior of the sisters is not about conflict. It is about the two ways that make up the whole.
Help me to stop, breathe, pray and reflect when I feel anxiety taking over. With you, there is no reason to be anxious. St. Francis, pray for us.
Monday | October 3, 2022
Luke 10:25-37:
The scribe knows the law, but does he understand that love is greater than, at the heart of God’s law? Jesus teaches the scribe using a story about love triumphing over both ritual impurity and human barriers.
I know that I have passed by people in need. “It’s not a good time.” “What if the person intends to harm me?” Help me to step out of my comfort and into radical love.
