Friday | July 29, 2022
John 11:19-27:
True to their characteristics already presented, Mary remains in their home while Martha is on the move to meet Jesus upon his arrival. Martha begins her greeting with an “if only” statement but quickly transitions to professing her profound faith in Jesus.
Jesus, you loved this family deeply. Their grief was your grief. Comfort and console all families in our country and throughout the world who grieve the loss of a family member.
Thursday | July 28, 2022
Matthew 13:47-53:
Once back on shore after a successful fishing trip, the fishermen separate the good from the bad and throw the latter away. This description of the final judgment is like the parable of the weeds. Jesus concludes his discourse by telling the listeners that those who understand know that he fulfills the law and the prophets.
Sometimes, my actions do not reflect a true understanding of your word. I pray that you help me align my actions with your will.
Wednesday | July 27, 2022
Matthew 13:44-46:
The fervor with which one should pursue the Kingdom is illustrated in the parables of the treasure and the pearl. Nothing of value can compare to the Kingdom. It is priceless and brings joy to all who earnestly seek it.
It is difficult to seek first the Kingdom in today's world. There are so many things that entice us. Please Lord, lead us to you and you alone.
Tuesday | July 26, 2022
Matthew 13:36-43:
Jesus turns from the crowd to his disciples. They seem to need a refresher of their understanding of the parable. To help them with this, Jesus gives them equivalencies to the meaning as it reveals God’s work at the final judgment.
We pray for grandparents that they contribute to their grandchildren’s understanding by teaching and modeling faith. Saints Anne and Joachim, pray for us.
Monday | July 25, 2022
Matthew 20:20-28:
The mother of James and John makes a request of Jesus on their behalf. She asks that they have primary placement among the disciples. The others are resentful. Jesus responds to their ignorance by explaining what it means to follow him and to serve selflessly.
Jesus, I pray for the humility to be invisible so that you are visible. St. James, pray for us.
Sunday | July 24, 2022
Luke 11:1-13:
The disciples are aware of Jesus praying to the Father and recognizing the importance of it ask Jesus to teach them how to do the same. Jesus offers them a formula that begins with addressing God, the Father. He goes on to tell a story about perseverance in their prayer. They must remember that God wants what is best for them.
I often get my wants confused with my needs. I am thankful that I can rely on you, my God, to help me sort it out. You know what is best for me.
Saturday, | July 23, 2022
Matthew 13:24-30:
Jesus uses another agricultural comparison in today’s Gospel. This time he directs his teaching to the final judgment. As the farmer fears the threat of weeds growing beside the wheat, the disciples fear the effects the unbelievers have on those who believe. They want to root them out. Jesus tells them to be patient. God will separate the “weeds from the wheat” at the final judgment.
You have planted your word in me. You guide me in applying it to my daily life. I am grateful.
Friday | July 22, 2022
John 20:1-2, 11-18:
Jesus is gone and Mary weeps. Then suddenly he is with her. Mary does not recognize him until he speaks her name. Jesus knows Mary wants to remain in the moment with him by her side, but he tells her he cannot stay. He commissions her to go announce the wonderful news to the disciples.
St. Mary Magdalene, Jesus sent you out, apostle to the apostles. Pray for us.
Thursday | July 21, 2022
Matthew 13:1-9:
The mysterious speech of the parables requires a willingness to reflect on the stories and openness to how they apply to the individual. Though they may not always understand completely, the disciples are willing to do so while others are not.
God, you created us with eyes, ears and hearts. Help us to always use those physical gifts to hear, see and understand.
Wednesday | July 20, 2022
Matthew 13:1-9:
The Kingdom of God is “already but not yet” in Jesus’ teaching through parables. In today’s Gospel, Jesus explains that there are wasted seeds and seeds that bear fruit. This highlights why Jesus’ teaching has not been accepted by everyone. He encourages those who do accept him to “bear fruit” for others.
You have known and loved us even before we were formed in our mother’s womb. You created us and your loving handprints are forever on us.
