Friday | September 2, 2022
Luke 5:33-39:
The Pharisees challenge Jesus and his disciples’ new ways. Jesus tells them a parable comparing his ministry to a wedding. Fasting is not appropriate at such a celebratory event. Jesus is telling the Pharisees that his presence is a reason to celebrate. They must not cling to the old ways for their own sake but rather welcome the new.
How often do we hear, even say, “We’ve always done it that way”? Thank you, for calling us to celebrate the new with you.
Thursday | September 1, 2022
Luke 5:1-11:
The fishermen are by the shore cleaning up after an unsuccessful night. On the shore, Jesus is preaching the word of God to the people. Presumably, to be seen and heard better by the crowd, Jesus gets into Simon’s boat. For Simon Peter and the other disciples, this is the beginning of a new life, and they know it.
I don’t know what it would mean for me to “give up everything.” Maybe I do know but I am afraid to think about it. Please help me to hear, understand and have the courage to stop holding on and follow.
Wednesday | August 31, 2022
Luke 4:38-44:
Jesus goes to Simon’s house for the Sabbath meal. Simon’s mother-in-law is ill so Jesus ministers to her. During his stay in Capernaum, Jesus continues actively ministering to the needs of the people through healings and exorcisms. Unlike the people in his hometown, the people of Capernaum want Jesus to stay with them.
There are so many who do not know that you are their Lord and Savior. I pray that they come to know and understand you are the loving and merciful God of all.
Tuesday | August 30, 2022
Luke 14:1, 7-14:
In these passages of Luke’s Gospel, Jesus is presented as teacher and exorcist. The people in the temple at Capernaum are astonished by what Jesus says and does. He teaches and preaches with authority that they have not heard before. They are amazed by his command over evil when he drives the demon out of the man.
By your love, you drive the darkness away, Lord and raise me up when I am “bowed down.”
Monday | August 29, 2022
Mark 6:17-29:
John’s fidelity to God is beyond measure. He speaks the truth with full knowledge of the cost standing in stark contrast to the weak-willed king. John’s life and death are in service to the Son of God. Mark’s Gospel account of John’s death is a foretelling of Jesus death.
There are times I think I am too complacent. Am I numbed to what goes on in the world or am I afraid? I pray for the courage to be able to stand strong in the face of evil.
Sunday | August 28, 2022
Luke 14:1, 7-14:
Sirach (3:18) introduces us to the importance of the virtue by saying that everything should be done with humility especially by those whose status is greater. In the Gospel at a dinner, Jesus tells a parable for the guests about the importance of humility and then advises the hosts about their attitudes and conduct. “Humble yourself the more, the greater you are.”.
My words and actions intended to call attention to myself, distract others from those genuinely in need. Help me focus more on others and less on myself.
Saturday | August 27, 2022
Matthew 25:14-30:
Today’s Gospel continues the end time’s theme with the parable about the final judgment. God gifts his people in many ways. Those who are “good and faithful servants” are those who use their gifts for the purpose of building the Kingdom. Those who out of fear hide their gifts are punished for their lack of resourcefulness and inactivity. Vigilance demands fruitful activity.
St. Monica, your faithful persistence is gift to all but especially to parents whose children have gone off course. Pray for us.
Friday | August 26, 2022
Matthew 25:1-13:
Again, the lesson in the Gospel concerns watchfulness and vigilance, not occasional but constant. There are those who understand and act on the need for readiness. They are wise. No one knows the day or the hour of Jesus’ return. Better to be wise than foolish.
I pray to keep ready for your coming, not in isolation, but with others living fully in the here and now.
Thursday | August 25, 2022
Matthew 24:42-51:
No one knows the day and hour of the coming. Jesus likens it to the master of the household and the thief and to further illustrate the point, he tells the story of the two servants, one constantly on the watch for the master’s return, the other who takes advantage of his master’s absence. The one who is prudent and faithful will be rewarded while the one who lacks vigilance will be punished.
I keep my eye on the signs of the times and it is unsettling. Holy Spirit, I ask you to be with me, to quiet my fear, to reassure me, and to fortify me.
Wednesday | August 24, 2022
John 1:45-51:
Scholars believe that Nathaniel and Bartholomew are one in the same. Nathaniel seems skeptical about Philip’s testimony that Jesus is the one who has been written about in Scripture. He follows him nonetheless and in meeting Jesus for the first time, discovers that Jesus already knows him.
I praise and thank you, Jesus. By your grace, I have moved from simple awareness of you to a relationship that grows and develops in ways I never imagined.
