3 Dec
Mon
Feast of St Francis Xavier
Patron of Missions
1 Cor. 9:16-29,22-23
Ps. 116(117): 1-2
Mk. 16:15-20
(Psalter proper)
How To Pray With Shalom
Home Page of Shalom
Index of This Month
 
 

With the internet and so many forms of communication today, we can glimpse into the stories and lives of people around the globe.

God is lovingly aware of all seven billion of us. God has a plan for all of us. Isaiah explains that people from every nation will come to God's mountain, to the house of God. They will come to be blessed. They will come to know God's instruction. They will receive the life and peace for which they hunger.

In the Gospel we see this vision being lived out. A Roman centurion, a foreigner, comes to Jesus. He comes requesting healing and peace. He is not turned away. His faith is rewarded generously.

Today the Church celebrates St. Francis Xavier. He was a man who was deeply moved by Christ's desire that all people come to him and receive life. Xavier wanted to be a part of realizing God's plan for all people, a plan that includes people in India, Malacca, Japan and all nations. He was able to draw thousands of people to Christ because he saw himself, not as working alone, but rather, as cooperating with Christ on Christ's mission.

What is Christ's desire for me? What part does God want me to play in God's plan for this world?



Lord, I ask for Your blessing. Help me to work with You today.

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 migrants throughout the world may be welcomed with generosity and authentic love, especially by Christian communities.
Elaboration

- END -


© Copyright Shalom 2012. All rights reserved.