Memorial of Saint Athanasius, bishop and doctor of the Church
Intention: That we may be a people of life, speaking for the dignity and needs of all people, especially the poor, the oppressed, the exploited, the misunderstood, and the forgotten.
Today’s Gospel | John 6:60-69
Many of the disciples of Jesus who were listening said, “This saying is hard; who can accept it?” Since Jesus knew that his disciples were murmuring about this, he said to them, “Does this shock you? What if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? It is the Spirit that gives life, while the flesh is of no avail. The words I have spoken to you are Spirit and life. But there are some of you who do not believe.” Jesus knew from the beginning the ones who would not believe and the one who would betray him. And he said, “For this reason I have told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by my Father.”
As a result of this, many of his disciples returned to their former way of life and no longer walked with him. Jesus then said to the Twelve, “Do you also want to leave?” Simon Peter answered him, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.”
From the Meditation on Saint Athanasius | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
Be ready to endure injuries, outrages, and calumnies in return for all the good you have tried to do for others. This is the main reward that God promises in this world and often the only one we receive from the poor in compensation for the good we do for them. Prepare your heart to accept these trials with love.
Prayer
Eternal Father, your Son calls us to follow him, to take up our crosses and be channels of your peace and justice to the world. Grant that we may have the courage to do this, accepting with determination the challenges and the labors of being good disciples. Help us be strong in our faith, constant in our hope, and generous in our love. We ask this of you who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.