Thursday | June 3, 2021
Mark 12:28-34
Jesus responds to the scribe in a way like that of a Jewish Scripture or Wisdom teacher of that time. In turn, the scribe uses the same method as Jesus, weaving parts of Hebrew Scripture together highlighting the meaning of the answer. The two are in agreement.
Jesus, your intent was never to abolish the law and the prophets. You were and are the fulfillment of God’s plan for our salvation.
Wednesday | June 2, 2021
Mark 12:18-27
The intent of the Jewish leaders is to trap Jesus with their question much like the question posed to him in yesterday’s Gospel about paying taxes to the emperor. Without hesitation, Jesus puts it right back on them. His wisdom shines a light on their ignorance of God’s law and eternal life. They are “greatly misled”.
I know that I cannot rely on myself or others for understanding your will and your ways. When I cannot hold fast to you, I pray you hold on to me.
Tuesday | June 1, 2021
Matthew 12:13-17
For the first few days of June the reading from the Old Testament is taken from the Book of Tobit. Though listed with the historical books, it is a beautiful religious story about the relationship between God and God’s people. God answers the prayers of his people in the most unexpected ways.
I am thankful for the stories, old and new. It is through them I come to know you, and to understand your will for me.
Monday | May 31, 2021
Luke 1:39-56
Mary is led by God’s Spirit to visit her cousin. These two women have both miraculously conceived and yet, remain humble and faithful. Elizabeth honors Mary for her “yes” and Mary praises God for all that he has done for her and for all creation.
To believe the way these women believed seems humanly impossible. With God, anything is possible. Holy Mary and St. Elizabeth you were blessed with humble faith and enduring love. Pray for us.
Sunday | May 30, 2021
Matthew 28:16-20
Earlier in the chapter, the women who encountered the risen Jesus have gone as he told them to share their good news and tell the eleven that they are to go to Galilee. They go, and he is there. Any doubt that they have is overshadowed by Jesus’ divine instruction. They are to go out and make disciples, not just of a chosen group but of everyone, everywhere.
It is through the Spirit, the outpouring of the perfect love of Father and Son, that I am drawn into the divine relationship.
Saturday | May 29, 2021
Mark 11:27-33
“By what authority ….?” is more than a question posed by the Jewish leaders. It is a challenge. They have been publically chastised in the temple. They are ready to disprove what he has said and done. Once again Jesus responds with a question that silences his opponents.
There are so many who doubt you, your Church, and all who believe. I pray that they stop questioning and start listening.
Friday | May 28, 2021
Mark 11:11-26
The key to understanding this difficult Gospel is that an Old Testament image of Israel is a fig tree. The temple is to be a house of prayer for all people, not a certain select few. For Jesus, Jewish temple piety is insincere and does not bear fruit. That’s the source of his anger.
I know that I am not always sincere in my prayer and practice. With your help I will strive to be fully alive, conscious and active in faith.
Thursday | May 27, 2021
Mark 10:46-52
The blind man is persistent in his attempts to see Jesus. Some in the crowd try to quiet him but he pushes through. Though physically blind, Bartimaeus sees who Jesus is with eyes of faith. Once his sight is restored, he follows Jesus.
I pray to see you with eyes of faith, to hear you with ears of faith, to follow you and to share with others all that I have come to believe.
Wednesday | May 26, 2021
Mark 10:32-45
Jesus’ third prediction of his impending suffering and death is misunderstood by two of his closest followers. James and John are concerned about their status. Jesus uses their misunderstanding as an opportunity to reiterate the difference between God’s kingdom and the world.
You challenge me constantly, always with good reason. I often misunderstand what it meant to be a servant leader. It is not my needs but the needs of others that must come first. St. Philip Neri, pray for us.
Tuesday | May 25, 2021
Mark 10:28-31
Jesus demanded that the rich man go beyond all “that he has observed from his youth.” Those who have detached themselves from earthly things, people and possessions, to follow Jesus will be given so much more.
I understand that it is more about attachment than having things and relationships. I am thankful for all that I have and pray that when a sacrifice needs to be made I choose you.
