Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Intention: For all whose lives have been wounded by disease, disasters, or loss, that they may find in us a welcoming community of refuge and support.
Today’s Gospel | Mark 6:30-34
The apostles gathered together with Jesus and reported all they had done and taught. He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” People were coming and going in great numbers, and they had no opportunity even to eat. So they went off in the boat by themselves to a deserted place. People saw them leaving and many came to know about it. They hastened there on foot from all the towns and arrived at the place before them.
When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.
From the Third Meditation for the Time of Retreat | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
Jesus Christ wants you to understand from this comparison that the more your work for the good of your disciples is given life by him and draws its power from him, the more it will produce good in them. This is why you must ask him earnestly that all your instructions be given life by his Spirit and draw all their power from him. Just as he is the one who enlightens everyone coming into the world, he is also the one who enlightens the minds of your students and leads them to love and practice the good that you teach them.
Prayer
Eternal Father, your Son called us to build your Kingdom. So often, we spend our time trying to build our own kingdoms, caring only about what we can take for ourselves from life. Lord, open our eyes and hearts to the truth that only what fulfills your will for all people is worthy of our time and efforts. Cleanse us of the selfishness that separates us and unite us as one people of integrity and justice. We ask this of you, who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.