
In the second part of the Book of Jonah, the prophet carries out the Lord’s command…with incredible results.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 27th Week of the Year
***************
Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos & Sr. Faustina Kowalska…pray for us!
In the second part of the Book of Jonah, the prophet carries out the Lord’s command…with incredible results.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 27th Week of the Year
***************
Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos & Sr. Faustina Kowalska…pray for us!
The response from Psalm 91 today urges us to put our trust in God. It’s a good reminder as we embark on the daily adventure of our lives…looking to the Lord for the grace we need.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 14th Week of the Year
***************
Released from custody, Peter and John return to the disciples to recount what happened. As they pray, the Holy Spirit comes upon them while the ground shakes and they preach with boldness.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 2nd Week of Easter
***************
How important it is for us to hear the words “Do not be afraid!” As St. Paul was encouraged to let go of fear, we are also directed to live our faith in the face of every trial.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 6th Week of Easter
***************
As Jesus heals the two blind men, we see how the Lord recognizes and responds to their faith. May their example inspire our trust in Christ!
Mass Readings – Friday of the 1st Week of Advent
***************
The reading from Wisdom (often heard at funerals) inspires us to encounter even the most difficult times with confidence in God’s guidance and strength. Whatever we have to face today, may we trust in the Lord!
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 32nd Week of the Year
***************
John’s Gospel offers a beautiful reflection as Jesus invites us to trust in him when doubt, fear and anxiety overwhelm us. God is our strength and our comfort, providing us the grace we need as we follow where the Lord leads.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 4th Week of Easter
***************
Study: Recall a moment in life when you were doubtful or afraid. How did you face it?
Pray: Ask the Lord for the strength and wisdom to face doubts and fears.
Serve: Is there someone in your life who is struggling with doubts or fears? How might you help them?
Mass Readings – 19th Sunday of the Year
This Gospel story (Matthew 14:22-33) follows immediately after the feeding of the 5000. Here’s a quick recap:
* Jesus hears of the death of John the Baptist
* Jesus seeks solitude in a deserted place
* The crowds find Jesus; he ministers to them
* Jesus feeds the hungry with fishes & bread
After the people have eaten, the Lord makes the disciples get into a boat while he dismisses the crowd. The following events occur:
1. The disciples are in the boat on the water
2. Jesus goes up the mountain to pray alone
3. The wind and the waves are getting strong
4. Late at night Jesus comes on the water
5. Seeing Jesus, the disciples are terrified
6. Jesus, “Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!”
7. Peter to Jesus “Command me to come to you.”
8. Peter goes to Jesus, is frightened and sinks
9. Jesus rescues Peter “Why did you doubt?”
10. The disciples: “Truly you are the Son of God!”
Note that Matthew’s Gospel differs from Mark’s account (6:45-52) in three ways:
1. The dialogue between Jesus and Peter
2. Peter walking (sort of) on the water
3. Confession of faith – Jesus the Son of God
The story speaks of Peter’s desire to follow Jesus, even as it clearly shows his human weakness. Peter tries, fails, and calls upon Jesus to save him in his need. As a result, the disciples recognize the Son of God in their midst.
The early Church took this passage to heart. Like the boat tossed on the waters, early Christians knew all too well the dangers of faith – risking their lives to follow Jesus. Like Peter, they had their moments of weakness; like Peter, they called upon the Lord in their need.
We can see ourselves in this situation as well. There are times when we desperately want a strong and steadfast faith; we seek the Lord and desire to follow His path for our lives. Yet we are also aware of our limitations, failures, and fears. May we, like Peter, call upon Jesus in our need; may we trust in the Lord’s strength and love to save us.
***************
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 7th Week of the Year
As the Lord attempts to teach the disciples he catches them arguing about who is the greatest. His response: to set before them a child…that as they welcome the innocent and vulnerable into their midst, they welcome Him.
***************