Wednesday | September 8, 2021
Matthew 1:1-16, 18-23:
Matthew’s Gospel is unique in that it begins with the genealogy of Jesus followed by the infancy narrative. We celebrate Mary’s birth, one of only three “birthdays” celebrated in the liturgical year placing Mary rightly in the company of John the Baptist and her son, Jesus. There are unusual and very human characters in the line of David paving the way for Jesus’ humble, human birth.
Dearest Mother, from your very beginning you were a part of God’s great plan. I pray to be as trusting as you. Pray for me.
Tuesday | September 7, 2021
Luke 6:12-19:
Jesus spends the night in prayer. In the morning, he calls the disciples together and chooses twelve. They are now called apostles which means “one sent out on a mission.” They are to join Jesus on his mission which will one day be their own.
There is so much brokenness in the world. How is it even possible to bring about healing and wholeness? It seems hopeless but then I remember that with you all things are possible.
Monday | September 6, 2021
Luke 6:6-11:
Jesus has told the Pharisees he is the “Lord of the Sabbath”. He goes a step further by acting on those words healing the man’s withered hand. Though Jesus knows he has provoked them he goes on to challenge them by saying that if God gives the Sabbath to his people, shouldn’t they choose to do good no matter what that entails.
Let us pray this day for the conversion for all who have let evil enter their hearts and guide their actions.
Sunday | September 5, 2021
Mark 7:31-37:
This man must have led such a lonely and perhaps even hopeless existence. He is unable to communicate in a “normal” way and is likely ostracized because of his impediments. Thankfully he has family and/or friends who know about Jesus and bring the man to him for help and healing. Jesus takes him away from the crowd and heals him, body and soul.
You are the Messiah promised by Isaiah in the first reading today. You healed but you also suffered on behalf of your people. Thank you.
Saturday | September 4, 2021
Luke 6:1-5:
The Pharisees interpret the law in a way that distorts the will of God. Harvesting the grain on the Sabbath is considered work which is unlawful. The disciples aren’t working, they are hungry and grabbing what is readily available to eat on their journey. Jesus uses an incident from Scripture to defend the disciples and reminds the Pharisees who he is.
Your way is the only way because it is the truth and leads those who follow to eternal life.
Friday | September 3, 2021
Luke 5:33-39:
The Pharisees call attention to the difference between their piety and practices and those of John the Baptist, Jesus and his disciples. Jesus responds very logically and practically. New ways cannot be bound by the old. Clinging to the past for the sake of it leads to stagnancy and decay. Jesus brings the way of life that must be listened to anew.
I am often reluctant to try new things and think in new ways. I have been guilty of rejecting people because they bring new ideas. I pray to be more flexible, open and willing to explore and accept the new.
Thursday | September 2, 2021
Luke 5:1-11:
Fishermen know that if they don’t catch anything at night, it is still the best time to fish. But there was nothing caught. Even still, they get back into Simon’s boat and following Jesus’ directions catch a miraculous number of fish. Jesus uses this to illustrate what is ahead for the disciples in their new role, especially Peter.
I know that I am not worthy of being called by you to serve you and my sisters and brothers. It is your belief in me that brings me to my knees and then carries me forward.
Wednesday | September 1, 2021
Luke 4:38-44:
Jesus rebukes Simon’s mother-in-law’s fever in the same way he casts out the demons and then cures the sick at the end of the day. Jesus has power over all things evil. The next day he goes off by himself and then on to other places.
You are everywhere at all times and I have only to call your name and know that you hear me.
Tuesday | August 31, 2021
Luke 4:31-37:
Jesus travels to Capernaum where on the Sabbath he teaches in the synagogue. He speaks as God’s authoritative representative and demonstrates power over evil. Though the people are astonished and amazed by what they hear and see this is by no means evidence of their faith.
I pray that the impact you have on me by your word and sacrament will never diminish. If anything I pray it will increase and overflow.
Monday | August 30, 2021
Luke 4:16-30:
The initial praise and acclaim quickly turn to suspicion and ultimately rejection. Jesus tells them that Isaiah’s prophesy is fulfilled “today” in him but they do not hear what he is saying. He likens himself and their rejection of him to two great prophets, Elisha and Elijah, who were also rejected by their own. This further infuriates them.
I don’t understand how anyone can be closed to you. I want to ignore, even reject them but I know I must pray for them.
