Memorial of Saint Agatha, virgin and martyr
Intention: For all those who serve as leaders in our Lasallian mission, that they may be inspired by the Holy Spirit to great faith and vision.
Today’s Gospel | Mark 6:1-6
Jesus departed from there and came to his native place, accompanied by his disciples. When the sabbath came he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished. They said, “Where did this man get all this? What kind of wisdom has been given him? What mighty deeds are wrought by his hands! Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James and Joseph and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and among his own kin and in his own house.” So he was not able to perform any mighty deed there, apart from curing a few sick people by laying his hands on them. He was amazed at their lack of faith.
From the Ninth Meditation for the Time of Retreat | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
Let it be clear, then, in all your conduct toward the children who are entrusted to you, that you regard yourselves as the ministers of God, carrying out your ministry with love and a sincere and true zeal, accepting with much patience the difficulties you have to suffer, willing to be despised by men and to be persecuted, even to give your life for Jesus in the fulfillment of your ministry.
Prayer
Eternal Father, you come to us at surprising times and in unexpected ways. We need your grace to be open to the mystery and power of your presence. Help us to overcome our small-mindedness and lack of faith so that we are always ready to recognize you and welcome you into the midst of our lives. Help us to be true ambassadors of your word and courageous servants of your will, proclaiming your Kingdom through the work of our hands and our hearts. We ask this of you who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.