St. Paul writes to the Corinthians, reminding them that our confidence lies in Christ who qualifies us for ministry. Whatever we face today, may we turn to the Lord for the strength and grace we need.
Jesus reminds us that we are salt and light – disciples called to live our faith in the world – so that when people see our good deeds they will give praise to our Heavenly Father. May we offer our lives today, trusting that the Lord will take our offering and bless it with grace to continue Christ’s mission in the world.
The Holy Spirit comes to unite us to God and one another, breaking down the walls of isolation and division, and leading us to cooperation as Sons an Daughters of God. Where do you see dissent and disunity in your life? Call upon the Spirit!
The first reading and the Gospel feature elements about Peter and Paul. Both of these men are giants in the early Church, and through their example we recognize that God continues to call new disciples in every generation.
We can place ourselves in the Gospel of John as Jesus invites Peter to follow him. Out of love for the Lord we, too, will be called to make our sacrifices as we put our faith into practice.
Jesus prays for his current and future disciples that they will be one – united to God and one another – as they journey through life. May our unity flourish in the love of Christ as we draw nearer each day to the Lord.
Both St. Paul and Jesus speak of the challenges all disciples face from the wolves that seek to tear us out of God’s hand. Knowing that we will face our own spiritual battles, may we fearlessly call upon the Lord for the grace we need to respond with the gift of faith.
The Lord’s ascension into heaven marks a shift for the disciples as they transition from their experiences with Jesus to proclaiming the Gospel on their own. Life offers us many such transitions as opportunities that help us grow in wisdom and strength…for this life and the life to come.
The disciple Apollos was boldly speaking about Jesus when he encountered other disciples who took him aside and fostered his faith. Throughout our lives we are called to speak and listen as we grow closer to the Lord.