“Courage, child, your sins are forgiven.” As Jesus says these words to the paralytic we find that the mercy of Christ is greater than all our sins…and we are inspired to draw near to the one who loves us completely.
Jesus reveals his power as the Son of God as he casts out the demons in the Gospel of Matthew. The Lord continues to work in our world, and as his disciples we confront evil with his grace and strength.
During the storm on the sea the disciples cry out in fear. Jesus calms the storm and comforts them, reminding us that when fear threatens to overwhelm us we seek the one who gives us strength.
For many years Fr. Andrew has offered a Summer Challenge to his parishioners to limit time in front of a screen (TV, Computer, Smartphone) and rethink what we do with the gift of our lives; consider what you might do for the next four weeks – and enjoy the glory of summer – in order to evaluate your use of screen time. (36 Minutes)
St. Paul reminds us in his letter to the Romans that our participation in the life and death of Jesus Christ brings us eternal life. This Good News is our legacy as disciples and our inspiration to offer our lives with the hope and strength of God’s grace.
A leper comes to Jesus and receives healing, encouraging us to look into our hearts to discern where we are wounded so that the Lord might heal us as well.
These two great saints made an enormous impact in the Church, even as they encountered hard work and confronted their own weaknesses and sins. May we look to their example and trust in the Lord for the grace we need to face the challenges of life.
The fruitfulness of our lives offers a useful indication regarding the state of our souls. Whether its our heart or another’s, may the Fruits of the Spirit help guide us on our journey of faith.