24 Sep
Sat
25th Week in Ordinary Time
Zec. 2:5-9,14-15
(R. Ps.) Jer. 31:10,11-12,13
Lk. 9:43-45
(Ps Wk I)
How To Pray With Shalom
Home Page of Shalom
Index of This Month
 
 

The disciples were amazed at all that Jesus was doing. Amazement, however is not faith and so does not bring a true understanding of what Jesus says. Still, we should not criticize the disciples but rather thank God that the glory of Jesus' resurrection enlightens our hearts and the Holy Spirit continually leads us in the Church towards a true and deeper understanding of the mystery of Christ.

The disciples were afraid to question Jesus. We are encouraged: "Do not be afraid!" We need not be afraid to question by seeking deeper understanding. We do that best by contemplation and reflection. There are many things that we only truly understand through acceptance and joy. The Responsorial Psalm speaks of the scattering of Israel, a parable of the many disasters which afflict our human race. The disaster, however, is followed by assurance: God will gather Israel again and guard them like a shepherd. God will somehow undo the catastrophes which afflict us by turning our mourning into joy. Jesus made these words his own: "You will be weeping and wailing while the world will rejoice; you will be sorrowful but your sorrow will turn to joy" (John 16:20).



Lord Jesus, teach us to rejoice in the mystery of Your presence amongst us and so come to find joy and salvation in the midst of all difficulties.

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 all teachers may know how to communicate love of the truth and instill authentic moral and spiritual values.
Elaboration

- END -


© Copyright Shalom 2011. All rights reserved.