Presence

At any time of the day or night, we can call on Jesus.
He is always waiting, listening for our call.
What a wonderful blessing.
No phone needed, no e-mails, just a whisper.

Freedom

Lord, like Saint Ignatius, I offer you my memory, understanding,
my entire will. All I ask for in return is Your love and Your grace – that’s enough for me.

Consciousness

Sometimes I get overwhelmed by the cares of this world.
At times like these may I be aware
of the comfort of your Presence,
Your infinite love for me.

The Word of God

¹¹Soon afterward he went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went with him. ¹²As he approached the gate of the town, a man who had died was being carried out. He was his mother’s only son, and she was a widow, and with her was a large crowd from the town. ¹³When the Lord saw her, he was moved with compassion for her and said to her, “Do not cry.” ¹⁴Then he came forward and touched the bier, and the bearers stopped. And he said, “Young man, I say to you, rise!” ¹⁵The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. ¹⁶Fear seized all of them, and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has risen among us!” and “God has visited his people!” ¹⁷This word about him spread throughout the whole of Judea and all the surrounding region.

Inspiration

Aware of this widow, whose only son had died, Jesus intervened. Her security was gone. Widows were vulnerable in those times and needed protection. We pray that we may be people of compassion to the vulnerable and the poor of today.

Jesus had compassion for the widow and entered deeply into her grief and loss. Was he himself the only son of a widowed mother at this stage? Jesus raised the widow’s son and ‘gave him to his mother’. May we enter more fully into the lives of those who grieve and suffer, to offer comfort and hope.

Conversation

Jesus, You are always there waiting for me.
Sometimes I get bogged down
with the concerns of this life.
Grant that I may be still more often,
To know Your peace, Your calm.

Conclusion

I thank God for His gift of love
as I go forth with joy and hope
to serve His people.

Amen