Sadly, many do not recognize them as spiritual crises because they are disguised as a person’s right to self-gratification, “freedom,” and even “love.”

As Catholics, we’ve all been challenged to defend our faith. We’ve all been tempted to follow what the world thinks is right even when it runs counter to God’s life-giving Word.

But we must hold on to God’s promise: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you” (Jeremiah 29:11). Jesus also said that He came that we may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:10). Aside from reading the Bible, I go to www. chastityproject.com to know God’s truth about our sexuality.

Catholics may not be called to the “easy” life, but we are called to eternal life—a life filled with grace and love, with Jesus on our side. Kristine Mutuc (kristinemutuc@gmail.com)

Reflect: Do you follow God’s teaching out of conviction or convenience?

Dear Jesus, may I always be reminded of Your promises—promises which are true and eternal. Mama Mary, pray for us.

St. Ephrem, deacon and Doctor of the Church, pray for us.

We cannot question God’s will. He has the power to do what He wants. However, He gives us the freedom to cooperate with His will. As we celebrate the feast of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary, let us ponder on Mary in whom God found a heart and mind that are one with His. Let us pray for an obedient heart and mind just like Mary’s, so that we do what God asks of us.

Isaiah 61:9-11 (or 2 Timothy 4:1-8)

9 Thus says the Lord: Their descendants shall be renowned among the nations, and their offspring among the peoples; all who see them shall acknowledge them as a race the Lord has blessed. 10 I rejoice heartily in the Lord, in my God is the joy of my soul; for he has clothed me with a robe of salvation, and wrapped me in a mantle of justice, like a bridegroom adorned with a diadem, like a bride bedecked with her jewels. 11 As the earth brings forth its plants, and a garden makes its growth spring up, so will the Lord God make justice and praise spring up before all the nations.

P S A L M 

1 Samuel 2:1, 4-5, 6-7, 8 (or Psalm 71:8-9, 14-15, 16-17, 22)

R: My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

1 “My heart exults in the Lord, my horn is exalted in my God. I have swallowed up my enemies; I rejoice in my victory.” (R) 4 “The bows of the mighty are broken, while the tottering gird on strength. 5 The well-fed hire themselves out for bread, while the hungry batten on spoil. The barren wife bears seven sons, while the mother of many languishes.” (R) 6 “The Lord puts to death and gives life; he casts down to the nether world; he raises up again. 7 The Lord makes poor and makes rich, he humbles, he also exalts.” (R) 8 “He raises the needy from the dust; from the dung heap he lifts up the poor, to seat them with nobles and make a glorious throne their heritage.” (R)

GOSPEL

One of the biblical images of the heart is that it is the place where we store good things. The problem is that we also allow regrets, resentments, and hurts to dwell there . Jesus wants us to let go of our hurts and allow His love to heal us. He wants us to let go of resentments and let His mercy transform us. Do we welcome God into our lives as Mary did with her “yes”?

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Blessed is the Virgin Mary who kept the word of God and pondered it in her heart. 

Luke 2:41-51 (or Mark 12:38-44)

 

Today, I pray for: ______________________________________