1 Sep
Mon
22nd Week in Ordinary Time
1 Cor. 2:1-5
Ps. 118:97,98,99,100,101, 102
Lk. 4:16-30
How To Pray With Shalom
Home Page of Shalom
Index of This Month
 

Our faith is not something that can be sold by fancy speech, cleverness, or the latest media or technology fads. And it is certainly not something that can be scientifically proven - or disproven. Many are disturbed by the number of books and films that "disprove" the Christian faith - or even deny God. But the message of Jesus has never really appealed to those who are immersed in the ways of the world. It can only be accepted and understood with humility and surrender to the power of God. Christ crucified is a symbol of surrender and the emptying of self for the sake of love and service. And this "weakness" in the eyes of the world is really an opening for God to work miracles. The only way we can ever promote our faith is by living a life of compassion, justice, and holiness. That is the wisdom of God.

We all have our expectations and ideas about God, but God has a way of surprising us. Jesus shocked people by proclaiming a year of the Lord's favour. No vengeance, no punishment - just healing, freedom, and new life - especially to the poor and afflicted. God speaks to us through those around us and through our experience. Jesus expressed this in His ministry; let us express it in our lives.



Lord, open my mind and heart.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That those who, because of wars or oppressive regimes, are forced to leave their homes and country may be supported by Christians in the defence and protection of their rights.
Elaboration

- END -


© Copyright Shalom 2008. All rights reserved.