Saturday | June 11, 2022
Matthew 5:33-37:
Though oath and vows are common practice for the Jewish people, Jesus tells his disciples that they are not necessary. It is better to be honest and straightforward. If not done so honestly, it is wrong to swear on all that is holy.
That time in Antioch when Christianity was formally named is holy. Thank you, God, for guiding your community then and now.
Friday | June 10, 2022
Matthew 5:27-32:
As anger is the root cause of murder, lust is the root cause of adultery. Jesus’ sayings that follow mean that any part that jeopardizes the salvation of the whole must be eliminated. When teaching about the prohibition of divorce, Jesus adds in Matthew’s Gospel, that divorce is allowed in the case of an “unlawful” marriage.
Sadly, divorce has become an easy out in today’s world. It shows a lack of understanding about the covenant of marriage. We pray for those married couples who are struggling. We pray especially for all preparing for marriage.
Thursday | June 9, 2022
Matthew 5:20-26:
Jesus teaches his disciples the conduct expected of them with a deeper look into the Mosaic law. There are six antithesis and the one about murder is the first. Murder is a grave sin, but it is important for the disciples to understand that anger is the root of this evil action. The angry thoughts and feelings must be dealt with by reconciling with the person or persons at the receiving end of their anger.
I am no stranger to anger in some cases harbored within me for a long time. I pray for healing and the courage to reconcile where still possible.
Wednesday | June 8, 2022
Matthew 5:17-19:
Jesus is sitting with his disciples on the mountain. He speaks to them as the new Moses. Jesus is a good Jewish man. He knows the law and understands it as God intended. More importantly, in accord with the words of the prophets, Jesus is the fulfillment of all Israel has hoped for.
I am thankful for those who have taught me to understand the depth and breadth of God’s law.
Tuesday | June 7, 2022
Matthew 5:13-16:
In the first reading, God sends Elijah to serve and preserve the lives of the widow and her son by bringing light to the darkness in their lives. The similes in the Gospel give new meaning to ordinary things. Salt seasons and preserves. Light illuminates its surroundings. Both have a purpose beyond themselves. Jesus tells the disciples they must bring to the world that which enhances goodness and illuminates the truth.
The world is so dark. May we see the light of your love through the darkness and help others to do the same.
Monday | June 6, 2022
John 19:25-34:
Great artists have captured the image of those who remained with Jesus at the foot of the cross. Whether standing or kneeling their eyes are fixed on him. Though a tragic ending, it is also a glorious beginning.
Dearest Mother, I thank you for keeping watch over the Church, and thank you for your prayers for me.
Sunday | June 5, 2022
John 20:19-23:
In the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we hear about the people gathered who, though they speak different languages, they understand the preaching of the Spirit-filled apostles. In the second reading, we are reminded that we are “one body.” Jesus is suddenly with the apostles in today’s Gospel. He offers them mercy and peace and sends them forth to do the same.
Spirit of the living God, we are so much in need of you protecting us leading us, guiding us. The world is so dark, but we know your light shines through.
Saturday | June 4, 2022
John 21:20-25:
We come to the end of John’s Gospel. What Jesus said and did is recounted in the Synoptic Gospels. It is in John’s that we are given the opportunity to reflect on Jesus’ mission more deeply. God reveals God’s self through his Son, which moves the disciples forward on their mission. They are not alone. God’s Spirit is with them.
On this day, we anticipate the coming of the Holy Spirit and look forward to the renewal of all creation.
Friday | June 3, 2022
John 21:15-19:
Jesus gives Peter the opportunity to repent and reaffirm his faith. This beautiful encounter between Peter and the risen Lord is Peter’s opportunity for public repentance. Peter knows he has sinned. He denied knowing Jesus not once, but three times. Three times Peter professes his love in response to Jesus’ questions. Jesus’ role as shepherd is now passed on to Peter and he too will lay down his life.
I know that like Peter, I am weak. I also know that you love me and in that love I am strong.
Thursday | June 2, 2022
John 17:20-26:
Jesus continues his prayer, directing his words to the Father on behalf of his future disciples. He prays that they may be united. It is in that unity, modeled on the union between Jesus and the Father, that the mission will be most effective. Disciples will be recognized by their love for one another and followed because of that love.
We pray for Christian unity, that we may one day be one in you.
