Memorial of Saint John Vianney, Priest
Intention: For more compassion and tolerance among all people, especially where histories of fear and misunderstanding divide us.
Today’s Gospel | Matthew 15:21-28
At that time Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out, “Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is tormented by a demon.” But he did not say a word in answer to her. His disciples came and asked him, “Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us.” He said in reply, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But the woman came and did him homage, saying, “Lord, help me.” He said in reply, “It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” Then Jesus said to her in reply, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed from that hour.
From the Fourth Meditation for the Time of Retreat | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
Consider Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd of the Gospel, who seeks the lost sheep, puts it on his shoulders, and carries it back to restore it to the fold. Because you are taking his place, consider that you are obliged to do the same thing. Ask him for the grace needed to procure the conversion of hearts.
Prayer
Eternal Father, there are times when the hurts of life seem so great that we think nothing can overcome them. In those times, lift us up to be like the woman who refused to accept that there was no hope. Bless us with a persistent faith, one that never loses heart but keep us returning ourselves to you. In you, Lord, light always dispels darkness and life always overcomes death. We ask this of you who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen.