Friday | October 7, 2022
Luke 11:15-26:
Some who witnessed Jesus casting out the demon seriously misinterpret his action. Others ask that he do more to convince them of the origin of his power. The division their mistrust creates is their undoing. Jesus responds to their suspicions and hardness of heart by telling them that his power comes from the “finger of God.”
There are times when we tend to lose hope. Please help us remember that because of you good will always triumph over evil.
Thursday | October 6, 2022
Luke 11:5-13:
Jesus emphasizes through story and sayings the importance of persistence in prayer. God will always respond, though not always in the ways expected. God is not cruel. God loves his people and wants only what is best for them.
I am grateful to be able to see, most of the time, that your answer to my prayer may not be what I want but is always what I need.
Wednesday | October 5, 2022
Luke 11:1-4:
The disciples recognize the importance of relationship with God, developed and nurtured through prayer. John taught his followers to pray so Jesus’ disciples ask the same of him. Though a shorter version than in Matthew’s Gospel, the structure and content of the Lord’s Prayer are basically the same. All glory is to be given to God, the Father and all that is needed, sustenance, forgiveness comes from God.
I ask your forgiveness daily for my sins and I know you do so. Help me to forgive others without hesitation or conditions.
Tuesday | October 4, 2022
Luke 10:38-42:
The story of Martha and Mary teaches us that we must listen to, reflect on God’s word and act accordingly by loving and caring for others. The behavior of the sisters is not about conflict. It is about the two ways that make up the whole.
Help me to stop, breathe, pray and reflect when I feel anxiety taking over. With you, there is no reason to be anxious. St. Francis, pray for us.
Monday | October 3, 2022
Luke 10:25-37:
The scribe knows the law, but does he understand that love is greater than, at the heart of God’s law? Jesus teaches the scribe using a story about love triumphing over both ritual impurity and human barriers.
I know that I have passed by people in need. “It’s not a good time.” “What if the person intends to harm me?” Help me to step out of my comfort and into radical love.
Sunday | October 2, 2022
Luke 17:5-10:
The apostles ask Jesus to increase their faith. Though in and of itself a worthy request, it shows that they do not understand the nature of the gift of faith. Jesus uses the image of the mustard seed. This tiny seed by its God-given nature has extraordinary potential.
I am so thankful for the faith you have given me and know how important it is to share my faith with others.
Saturday | October 1, 2022
Luke 10:17-24:
The 72 disciples return, amazed by all that they have done in Jesus’ name. Jesus tells them to remember that what they do is not about human ability or accomplishment but divine glory. Jesus turns to his Father, praising God for the success of the mission.
I pray to be humble and childlike, open to your call and willing to follow wherever it leads. Thank you, for the privilege of being your disciple. St. Thérèse, pray for us.
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.
