Tuesday | March 1, 2022
Mark 10:28-31:
Perhaps overwhelmed by Jesus’ statement about possessions being a deterrent to God’s kingdom, Peter speaks boldly about giving up everything to follow Jesus. It seems before Peter could get the words out, Jesus speaks profoundly about the everlasting benefits of choosing to follow him.
My choices, my actions, my responses to you pale in comparison to all you have done and continue to do for me. I praise you and thank you!
Monday | February 28, 2022
Mark 10:17-27:
This man is a devout Jew and his intentions honest. Jesus loves him but must make clear the slippery slope he is standing on. The danger in having possessions is in attachment to them. Possessions stand in the way of dependence on God.
All things are possible in you alone, Lord God. Help me to let go of my attachment to worldly things and hold fast to you.
Sunday | February 27, 2022
Luke 6:39-45:
In three short verses, Jesus emphasizes the importance of human relationship at its best. The best is attained by emulating his Father. Do not judge or condemn. Be merciful, give and forgive. Do all this without counting the cost.
It’s all about relationship, my relationship with you and with my neighbor, whether friend or foe. I know there is so much to be gained by being compassionate, kind and generous. It is what genuine happiness is all about. I pray to hold on to this truth, especially with the most difficult and trying relationships.
Saturday | February 26, 2022
Mark 10:13-16:
Jesus uses the little children gathered around him to illustrate it is childlike trust that will enable people to live their lives trusting in God and God alone. It is clearly a lesson that the disciples have yet to learn.
The years of adulthood in a selfish and cynical world can damage if not destroy that “inner child.” I pray that my trust in God’s power will grow and flourish within me.
Friday | February 25, 2022
Mark 10:1-12:
Perhaps for a moment the Pharisees thought they were successful in tricking Jesus. Not the case. Moses did acquiesce to their ancestors about the legality of divorce in certain cases but only because they were unwilling to listen. Jesus takes them back to the beginning. God, the Creator intended permanence for marriage.
Let us pray for all those men and women whose marriages are broken and for those who guide them through healing to wholeness.
Thursday | February 24, 2022
Mark 9:41-50:
Jesus continues to admonish his disciples about the radical demands of discipleship. Causing others to sin will result in severe eternal punishment. They must be good examples to all. Jesus concludes with a metaphor about being cleansed of their sinful ways.
Your words are as relevant today as they were for your disciples and to Mark’s community. We must turn from evil and do good for ourselves and others. Lord, heal us, help us.
Wednesday | February 23, 2022
Mark 9:38-40:
John tries to exclude a person who is not a member of their group. Jesus responds to this by telling John and the disciples that there is no place for intolerance and exclusion in their ministry. They are to be open to all who do good work.
It is no different today. We stand in the way of others who serve because they are in some way different. Help us all to be open to one another and to strive for unity.
Tuesday | February 22, 2022
Matthew 16:13-19:
Jesus is in dialogue with his disciples. He begins by asking who others think he is. They respond with current opinions, John the Baptist, restored to life, Elijah, Jeremiah. Jesus then asks for their opinion to which Peter professes that Jesus is the Messiah. Jesus declares Peter the rock upon which the Church will be built.
St. Peter, God revealed God’s self to you. Through God’s love and belief in you, you became what God intended you to become. I feel your love for me and rejoice at my “becoming.” St. Peter, pray for us.
Monday | February 21, 2022
Mark 7:14-23:
This miracle story is long and detailed. Faith lacking, a desire for increased faith and a profession of faith are woven in with Jesus telling the disciples that these things cannot happen without trust in God. Trust in God comes through union with him through prayer.
No doubt my unbelief is greater than my belief. I know that and you certainly know that. My prayer is like the father of the boy. Help me.
Sunday | February 20, 2022
Luke 6:27-38:
The love between the Father and the Son is the most perfect love. It is a radical love that the disciple must be willing to give selflessly to all, friends and enemies alike. Jesus goes on to tell the disciples not to judge or condemn but to forgive as they hope to be forgiven.
I believe we all must feel challenged by this Gospel. It is a time when anger and divisiveness overshadow doing good, giving and loving selflessly. Help us dear God, to come together in your love.
