Friday of the Fourth Week

Reflection

Today’s responsorial Psalm reminds us that it is not always easy to “follow the Lord,” “to be just in His eyes.”  Life is full of ups and downs.  Each day has its own series of challenges. We cannot avoid the stress, pain, suffering, and inconveniences of living.  But we know that the “Lord delivers us...The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” (Psalm 34) 

In John’s Gospel, we read that Jesus was also challenged in life.  He was among the hunted; He was hated and not trusted by some peers.  But how did Jesus respond to this lack of understanding? He looked within Himself to find courage, strength, and power.  He knew who He was.  He was in relationship with His Father and He defended their relationship. 

Today’s Gospel challenges us to respond as Jesus did.  We are challenged to look within to find courage and strength which come from our relationship with the Father and the Son.  This relationship is the source of hope and power; it is the divine life within us.  We know the Father because we know the Son.  We were sent by the Father to know Him and to share in the life of His Son.  Let us pray that we may be one in Him. 

Prayer

Lord, mindful of Your Life within me, give me the strength to respond to my life challenges with the courage and the power which come from You.  I offer this prayer in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

Janice Couture, Member of the Worshipping Community

Scripture

First Reading: Wisdom 2:1a, 12-22
Psalm 34:17-21, 23
Gospel: John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website