Friday | July 23, 2021
Matthew 13:18-23:
Jesus’ explanation of the parable invites the disciples to a deeper level of understanding. He states the obvious but then explains why the seed does or does not grow. The seed of the word of the God will not take root in those who are ignorant, superficial, or conflicted within.
I want so much to be instrumental in helping others, especially parents, to be open to your presence within them and to listen to your word.
Thursday | July 22, 2021
John 20:1-2, 11-18:
Mary’s grief is compounded by her discovery. She remains at the tomb after having alerted Peter and John. Mary’s exchange with the angels inside the tomb is followed by her encounter with Jesus. At first, she does not recognize him but he calls her by name and she knows. Mary, the apostle to the apostles returns to share the good news with the disciples.
I cannot imagine what it must have been like for Mary to realize that it was you. I am aware of your presence often and in so many different ways but I look forward to the day when I see you face to face.
Wednesday | July 21, 2021
Matthew 13:1-9:
Jesus tells the crowd the parable of the sower comparing and contrasting seed wasted with seed that bares rich fruit. Jesus’ mission is to spread the love and mercy of the Father. Some people ignore him, others reject him. Those who hear his word and act on it will live in the love of God.
I pray for a heartfelt desire to read and reflect on your Word every day. I pray for the wisdom and courage to act on it.
Tuesday | July 20, 2021
Matthew 12:46-50:
In this Gospel passage Jesus turns the understanding of family upside down. Society in his time places a very high value on blood relationship. Jesus challenges this by saying that spiritual relationship comes before blood relationships. Family consists of those who do the will of God.
I know God’s view of the world does not have barriers or borders. I pray for that same view as I consider my human family.
Monday | July 19, 2021
Matthew 12:38-42:
What Jesus has said and done is not enough for the scribes and Pharisees. They want more though it is abundantly clear that nothing will lead them to faith, even the greatest sign to come, Jesus’ death and resurrection. Jesus recounts stories of those who were not Jewish but demonstrated greater faith than the scribes and Pharisees are capable of.
I think that rather than looking for where your signs lead me, I ask for more to confirm where I want to go. Your will be done, O Lord.
Sunday | July 18, 2021
Mark 6:30-34:
The apostles have so much to tell Jesus about their mission. He knows that they were tired and need rest. He suggests they go off in a boat together but their downtime is not to be. A crowd is waiting for them. In that moment their need is greater than the needs of the Twelve.
Ministry often means “no rest for the weary.” You are with us and your presence brings energy and the strength to carry on.
Saturday | July 17, 2021
Matthew 12:14-21:
The opposition to Jesus is intensifying. Jesus is aware but it does not stop him. It seems that Matthew pauses in the Gospel to cite the first Servant Song from Isaiah. In the face of persecution, Jesus remains the meek and humble servant of the Lord. The citation ends with the foretelling of his mission to the gentiles.
Your power was in your powerlessness, your strength in your weakness. You were meek and humble. You were compassionate to a fault. I have a long way to go as I strive to be like you.
Friday | July 16, 2021
Matthew 12:1-8:
It is the Sabbath. The disciples are hungry so they reach for what food is readily accessible. The Pharisees protest. It is the Sabbath and what the disciples are doing is considered work. Jesus responds as the authoritative interpreter of Scripture with a detailed explanation about that which is the heart of the Jewish law, the welfare of the human person.
“The devil is in the detail.” It is so easy to get caught up in the detail and lose sight of the big picture.
Thursday | July 15, 2021
Matthew 11:28-30:
The scribes and Pharisees by confusing and complicating the law have burdened the people with a heavy and cumbersome yoke. Jesus authoritatively interprets the law, inviting all who listen to come to him to be refreshed. He offers an invitation to discipleship; a life lived loving and serving God and neighbor.
Why do I make that which is so very simple, complicated to the point that I become exhausted and ready to give up? Let me rest in you, O Lord.
Wednesday | July 14, 2021
Matthew 11:25-27:
Jesus in his prayer to his Father, offers praise and thanks for God’s revealing God’s self to those who are childlike, open to listening and to change, in contrast to those whose hearts are hardened. Jesus goes on to speak about his relationship with his Father. It is a perfect union into which Jesus invites all who believe.
I praise you Lord God and thank you for your Son whose, life, death and resurrection have shown me the way. St. Kateri, pray for us.
