Tuesday | September 27, 2022
Luke 9:51-56:
Jesus is committed to his Father’s plan, and heads to Jerusalem with the disciples. On the way, they encounter hostility from the Samaritans. Though not unusual because of the history of animosity, the disciples want immediate revenge. Jesus tells them that retaliation is not the answer.
Your way is the way of love and no matter what we encounter we must keep to that. St. Vincent de Paul, pray for us.
Monday | September 26, 2022
Luke 9:46-50:
Chapter 9 begins with Jesus preparing his disciples for mission. While journeying from place to place, serving the needs of the people, Jesus continues to teach them. They have a lot to learn. Even after Jesus’ second prediction of his passion, they cave into human weakness by arguing amongst themselves and excluding others.
The sins of rivalry and intolerance are alive and well in our world, in our Church. Forgive us. Heal us. Save us.
Sunday | September 25, 2022
Luke 16:19-31:
The rich man, engrossed in his own comfort, is indifferent to the needs of the man at his doorstep. His opportunity to not only care about someone other than himself but to prepare for his eternal future is missed. The men’s deaths are as different as their lives.
I am mindful of the many opportunities to serve those in need that I have missed either unknowingly or with full knowledge. Please forgive me and open my eyes, mind and heart to others.
Saturday | September 24, 2022
Luke 9:43-45:
The disciples are in awe of Jesus’ actions. Knowing that this clouds their understanding, Jesus repeats the prediction of his passion. The disciples do not respond, nor do they question Jesus. They are not ready for the harsh reality about which Jesus speaks for him or for themselves.
We have the gift of the whole story, the triumph of your passion, your victory over death, and yet, we do not fully understand. That is why your gift of faith is so important to us.
Friday | September 23, 2022
Luke 9:18-22:
Peter’s Confession about Jesus/The First Prediction of the Passion
Jesus takes the time to pray perhaps in preparation for what he is about to disclose to his disciples about himself, his identity and the people’s response. Jesus guides his disciples by posing two questions, what are the people saying about him and what do they, the disciples think about his identity. Peter responds to the question directed to them. Jesus is the Messiah. Jesus is quick to tell them to keep this truth to themselves for now.
How difficult it must have been for your friends to hear about what lies ahead. I am thankful to have the whole story, through the lens of the Resurrection.
Thursday | September 22, 2022
Luke 9:7-9:
Jesus commissioned and sent out the Twelve, which greatly expands his mission. The movement catches the attention of the people. Many wonder if one of the ancient prophets has returned. Herod wonders if John, who Herod ordered killed, has returned from the dead. It won’t be long before Jesus’ identity is revealed through his words and works.
Sadly, many did not believe then as many do not believe today. May those of us who have been given knowledge, understanding and wisdom, use those gifts to bring others to you.
Wednesday | September 21, 2022
Matthew 9:9-13:
Jesus chooses his company and his companions. Though his choices are not in accordance with the ritual purity and table fellowship of the Pharisees, they are in accordance with the Father’s will. God is merciful and wills those in need, physically and spiritually, to turn to him for healing and wholeness. Matthew did just that.
I pray to be worthy of the call I have received but remember it’s a journey, and you are with me. St. Matthew, pray for us.
Tuesday | September 20, 2022
Luke 8:19-21:
Jesus teaches by example. He places his immediate family second to those followers who hear what he teaches and preaches. It is God’s word and once heard, they live it out. This is fundamental to discipleship. It is indeed radical but essential for those who follow Jesus.
I read, reflect, listen and hear but don’t always act on it. Sts. Andrew, Paul, and companions, I am thankful for your example. Pray for us.
Monday | September 19, 2022
Luke 8:16-18:
Jesus’ proclamation of the Kingdom must go out into the world. This is the mission of all disciples. In the same way that it makes no sense to light a lamp and then cover it so that it does not illuminate the darkness, the Good News is not to be kept secret. It is to be heard, understood and spread throughout the world.
Sharing faith with those who hold similar beliefs is easy. I pray for the courage to share with those who have not heard your word or seen your light.
Sunday | September 18, 2022
Luke 16:1-13:
This parable is one of the more difficult to understand. Simply, in anticipation of his impending financial crisis resulting from his being fired for mismanaging funds, the steward goes out and reduces the debts of his master’s debtors. He wins favor with them and his master, securing his future. Jesus is not concerned with financial matters but likens it to foresight and planning in spiritual matters to secure eternity.
I spend hours planning my finances for the future and only a fraction of that time preparing for eternal life with you. I want to trust you to take care of my temporal life and focus on preparing for my eternal life with you.
