Opening Prayer

Lord, grant that I may see you more clearly,
love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly,
day by day.

Scripture

Luke 8:1-3

Soon afterward he went on through one town and village after another, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. The twelve were with him, as well as some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, and Susanna, and many others, who ministered to them out of their own resources.

Reflection

The presence of women is central among Jesus’ followers, including Mary Magdalene and Joanna, who supported His ministry with their resources. This inclusion of women, often overlooked in society, underscores Jesus’ radical approach to community and discipleship. It inspires us to embrace inclusivity in our own communities, recognising and valuing the contributions of all individuals, regardless of gender or social status, in the mission of spreading the Gospel.

All of the women who travelled with Jesus and provided for Him and His disciples out of their means exemplify the vital role of support in ministry. Their generosity and commitment enabled the continuation of Jesus’ work. We are encouraged to consider how we can support the mission of the Church and its ministries, whether through our time, talents, or resources. By contributing to the communal effort, we become active participants in the work of evangelisation and service, helping to build God’s Kingdom on earth.

Contemplation

I take a few moments to imagine the scene from the Gospel story I just read. I let the words come alive in my heart. I visualise the event as if I was there and part of the story. I pay attention to all the details, the sights, the sounds, the tastes, the smells, and the feelings of the event. I imagine myself as one of the characters in the scene or as myself present in the story. What message does Jesus have for me? How is God speaking to me personally through this story? I open my heart to the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

Thanksgiving

I ask God, the Father, to give me an intimate knowledge of the many gifts I have received,
so that filled with gratitude for all, I may in all things love and serve the Divine Majesty.

Fellow Pilgrims

Holiness consists simply in doing God’s will, and being just what God wants us to be.

– Saint Therese of Lisieux

Closing Prayer

Christ with me,
Christ before me,
Christ behind me,
Christ in me,
Christ beneath me,
Christ above me,
Christ on my right,
Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down,
Christ when I sit down,
Christ when I arise,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.

Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!
Amen.