Friday | August 12, 2022
Matthew 19:3-12:
The Pharisees attempt to trick Jesus with their question about marriage and divorce. Jesus, speaking as authoritative interpreter of the law, cites passages from Genesis, which lay out God’s original intention for marriage.
We pray for those who prepare couples for marriage. May they be knowledgeable, wise, and compassionate, leading the couples to a mature understanding of the covenant.
Thursday | August 11, 2022
Matthew 18:21—19:1:
When asked by Peter, Jesus makes it quite clear that there can be no limit put on forgiveness. To forgive another comes from the heart. It is God’s will that we forgive others as God forgives us. The parable illustrates this. The merciless servant failed to learn this as evidenced by his treatment of his fellow servant.
We live in a world where holding grudges and getting even are the norm. We pray that our hearts guide us to be merciful as God is merciful. St. Clare, pray for us.
Wednesday | August 10, 2022
John 12:24-26:
Jesus talks to his disciples about self-sacrifice, his own and theirs using the metaphor of the grain of wheat dying to bear fruit. He enjoins them to himself and tells them, if they are to follow him, they must let go of whatever it is that binds them to the world.
I can be a very selfish person, often hard pressed to share my time. Every day, I wake up with a plan and a list. Help me to set it aside willingly and joyfully and accept your plan for me. St. Lawrence and all who have died for the faith, pray for us.
Tuesday | August 9, 2022
Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14:
The disciples ask Jesus who is the greatest in God’s kingdom. Jesus responds by pointing to a child. Those who are great in the eyes of God are humble and trusting like a little child. As illustrated in the parable, they also put care and concern for the lost and those who have strayed above all else.
It is your will, Lord God, that I put on these attributes of discipleship. Be with me for I cannot do it without you.
Monday | August 8, 2022
Matthew 17:22-27:
As evidenced by their overwhelming grief, the disciples seem to understand what lies ahead for Jesus. This second prediction of Jesus’ passion is followed by the tax collectors questioning Peter about Jesus paying the temple tax. In the end, Jesus pays the tax so as not to offend or cause scandal, but he does so in a most unusual way.
I look to you as one in the world but not of the world. It is difficult for me, so I lean on you and ask you to help me find and hold on to that balance.
Sunday | August 7, 2022
Luke 12:32-48:
Jesus counsels his disciples, telling them to trust, don’t be afraid, maintain a simple lifestyle and be vigilant. He uses two parables about servants waiting for the return of their master. They do not know the hour of master’s return, so it is best to prepare and remain ready. So, it is with the return of the Son of Man.
I fear that my “never ready” state will cause me to look back instead of forward when the time comes. Holy Spirit help me to keep my focus on eternity while caring for the needs of my sisters and brothers in the here and now.
Saturday | August 6, 2022
Luke 9:28-36:
While praying, Jesus changes and is joined by Moses and Elijah. In this dazzling state, there is a twofold message. Jesus is the fulfillment of all the expectations of the Hebrew people and though he will suffer and die, he will be glorified. What better confirmation of this than the loving words of his Father. Though they witness this, the disciples do not understand.
We know that eventually the disciples come to know and understand the mystery of your life, death and resurrection. I am assured that one day I will too.
Friday | August 5, 2022
Matthew 16:24-28:
Following Jesus’ first prediction of his passion, he tells the disciples through “sayings” about both the cost and reward of discipleship. The cost is connected to Jesus’ fate. But if they are willing to give themselves completely to him, their reward will be eternally great.
How hard it must have been for the disciples to hear about Jesus’ suffering and death. The cross did not have a spiritual meaning for them. I am ever thankful to have the lens of your resurrection to fortify my faith.
Thursday | August 4, 2022
Matthew 16:13-23:
Jesus first asks the disciples for the popular opinion concerning his identity. They respond but then the next question Jesus poses is personal. What do they believe? Peter, as spokesperson, confesses that Jesus is the Messiah.
Perhaps I would have reacted as Peter did out of disbelief and fear. I see because of the rest of the story that this was all part of God’s great plan.
Wednesday | August 3, 2022
Matthew 15:21-28:
Jesus rebuffs this gentile woman. His mission thus far has been to the children of Israel. Her persistence and remarkable faith cause him to listen to her and grant her appeal to him to heal her daughter. This is indicative of the widening of Jesus’ mission to include all people.
You are the Creator, the Redeemer and the Sanctifier of all people. We pray that those who do not know you, do not believe, come to know your love.
