Friday | September 30, 2022
Luke 10:13-16:
Jesus’ message is not to be taken lightly. It is news about the Kingdom of God. Those who close their minds and hearts, rejecting this news, like the people of Chorazin and Bethsaida, will suffer harsh consequences.
I pray for all those whose hearts are hardened. Help me to be mindful of the ways I can help open their eyes and ears to your word and their hearts to your love. St. Jerome, pray for us.
Thursday | September 29, 2022
John 1:47-51:
Today the Church celebrates the feast of the archangels, Sts. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael. They are heralds of God’s salvific work and defenders against evil. The first chapter of John’s Gospel concludes with Jesus’ exchange with Nathanial. Nathaniel is one of several witnesses to Jesus who identifies Jesus rightly. “Son of God” and “King of Israel” are both titles from the prophets of old.
I pray this day for protection from evil as I strive to do God’s holy work. Sts. Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, pray for us.
Wednesday | September 28, 2022
Luke 9:57-62:
A disciple must not let anything supersede the proclamation of the Kingdom. Jesus makes this quite clear to those not fully invested in discipleship. The call of God’s reign is more urgent than anything. Disciples must not be distracted by family ties or obligations.
I can see that I cling to so many things and look back rather than forward to your kingdom come. Help me to learn to keep my eyes on you and to commit my life to the urgency of the Gospel.
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.
