Speaking with the pharisees, Jesus offers an insight into God’s compassion and mercy when he says, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” Today we have the opportunity to offer to Christ the gift of mercy as we lovingly respond to the weaknesses of those around us, as we claim the Lord’s mercy for ourselves.
Moses stands before God and receives his commission to go to Egypt. It will be hard, but the Lord will walk with him. As we face our challenges in life, God will give us what we need as well.
Moses, standing on holy ground in the sight of the burning bush, is sent by God on a mission to free the people from their bondage in Egypt. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to continue God’s saving work in the world today.
Jesus reminds us in the Gospel of Matthew that there are consequences for our actions that will take place in the final judgment. With this awareness in mind, we have the opportunity today to repent of our sins and turn to the Lord for his mercy and forgiveness.
Divorce touches our lives in many ways and on many levels. Fr. Andrew offers some pastoral food for thought regarding how we offer healing to those facing divorce and support for couples working on their marriage. (40 Minutes)
What kind of crop is growing in your heart? Do you like what you see? Does something need to be cultivated or planted? Every day we have a new opportunity to take the gift of our lives and raise a crop worthy of the Lord.
“Do not be afraid” is a statement that should be drilled into the hearts and minds of every disciple. Jesus gives us the example, empowers us with his Spirit, and guides us in the face of opposition and difficulty. May we hang on to his hand and carry out the work he sets before us today!
The Lord speaks bluntly when he tells his disciples about the opposition they will encounter: hatred, persecution, suffering, and ridicule will follow them. And yet this opposition only highlights what’s truly at stake: eternal life!
Our choices in a life of faith lead to consequences: Christ calls us to follow and fully offer our lives, yet we also have the freedom to walk away and ignore the offer. What will you do today?
Having offered his personal example, the Lord now extends his authority to the Twelve Apostles so that they can continue his ministry. He calls them by name…just as he calls each one of us today.