Friday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time
Intention: For all who have been entrusted with the responsibilities of leadership and governance, that they always will work for peace and justice for all people.
Today’s Gospel | Matthew 13:54-58
Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue. They were astonished and said, “Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds? Is he not the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother named Mary and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? Are not his sisters all with us? Where did this man get all this?” And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and in his own house.” And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith.
From the Sixth Meditation for the Time of Retreat | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
God uses the angels not only to deliver those entrusted to them from the powers of darkness and make them grow in the knowledge of God but also to help them lead a life worthy of God, so that they will be pleasing to him in every way and produce good works of every sort. The angels are zealous for the good of those in their care, because of the commission they have received from God, the Father of light and of all good. They contribute, as far as they are able, to make those in their care worthy to share the lot of the saints.
Prayer
Eternal Father, your grace is a surprise that opens our eyes to the life-giving power of your love. Bless us with the humility to open ourselves to receive the gift of your Kingdom. Guide us to the persons and places that will reveal your will for us. In our journey through life, may we see clearly the signs that point the way to your heart. We ask this of you who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.