Friday | May 21, 2021
John 21:15-19
This beautiful exchange between Peter and the risen Lord is Peter’s opportunity for public repentance. Three times he denied knowing Jesus. Three times he professes his love for him. Jesus’ role as shepherd is now passed on the Peter and he too will lay down his life.
I know that like Peter, I am weak. But you invite me into your loving arms and enter into my weakness and give me your strength.
Thursday | May 20, 2021
John 17:20-26
Jesus’ prayer moves from those present to believers who will be brought to the Faith by disciples from generation to generation. As for those who have walked with him on his earthly journey, he prays that they may come to know the Father through him and be united with one another as he is united with the Father.
In that moment, you prayed for me and for all those who strive to bring others closer to you. I feel the power of that prayer. It inspires me to move beyond my human limitations.
Wednesday | May 19, 2021
John 17:11b-19
Jesus prays to his Father for his disciples. He begins this part of his prayer by addressing his Father as Holy Father which not only sets God apart but also reflects the nature of their relationship. Jesus' prayer is heartfelt and very specific. Unite them. Protect them.Keep them from evil. Make them holy.
We pray. Unite us. Protect us. Keep us from evil. Sanctify us in your truth.
Tuesday | May 18, 2021
John 17:1-11
Jesus’ work on behalf of the Father is complete. It is time for him to leave. Poised between heaven and earth he prays, first to the Father in words reminiscent of the Our Father. Jesus then turns his focus to his disciples. He has made the Father known to them and they have accepted his message.
Our hope is in you as it was for the first disciples. When you prayed for them, you were also praying for us.
Monday | May 17, 2021
John 16:29-33
Jesus’ words of unity and love are followed with a warning. Soon they will abandon him and one another. Despite their suffering, they will find peace in him who has already overcome sin and death.
Thank you for watching over us, protecting us from evil and being the source of peace for us and the world.
Sunday | May 16, 2021
Mark 16:15-20
The eleven are sent out to proclaim the Gospel to the whole world. They are to speak and act in Jesus’ name. They will do extraordinary things at great risk but have nothing to fear for they are not alone.
I can think of a number of times when you told me to go in a direction that I never imagined. I told you no and you patiently listened to my fears and doubts. You held me until my no turned to yes.
Saturday | May 15, 2021
John 16:23-28
Jesus tells the disciples that on the day he returns to the Father there will no longer be “veiled language.” It will soon be clear as will all that his Holy Spirit tells them while guiding them on their journey. God loves them and listens to their prayers.
Bless us with love and gratitude for all those who have gone before us and lead us in ways of wisdom, service and love.
Friday | May 14, 2021
John 15:9-17
The greatest commandment and an understanding about sacrificial love are critical to the life of a disciple, in Jesus time, John’s community and today. Judas did not understand this but Matthias did.
St. Matthias, intercede for us as we strive to live out the greatest commandment, to love.
Thursday | May 13, 2021
Mark 16:15-20
The eleven are sent out to proclaim the Gospel to the whole world. They are to speak and act in Jesus’ name. They will do extraordinary things at great risk but have nothing to fear for they are not alone.
I can think of a number of times when you told me to go in a direction that I never imagined. I told you no and you patiently listened to my fears and doubts. You held me until my no turned to yes.
Wednesday | May 12, 2021
John 16:12-15
Jesus will not return in the flesh but in Spirit. His Spirit will continue to speak to his disciples in their hearts. He will speak the words he receives from the Father, actively guiding them in ways that give God glory.
I cannot imagine what it must have been like for the disciples to see you go, not once, but twice. Then, as promised you returned, not in earthly form but in the form of the Spirit.
