Friendship

Lectionary: 661
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Luke

The readings for the past week have told us a lot about friendship. We've meditated about gossip and how friends encourage us in prayer. Today's lectionary continues as we find St. Paul abandoned by all his friends except St. Luke. Luke is the only Gentile gospel writer and remained a true friend to St. Paul, even following him to Rome where he underwent his execution.
One more thing: Jesus sent the apostles out to preach, relying only on the kindness of strangers and friends. Jesus was very specific about the kind of hospitality that signifies a true friend. How often do I encounter someone who needs a friend? Do I welcome to stranger at my door? When I offer a kind word, a cup of coffee, a ride to ball practice, or dinner to someone, I'm showing hospitality and being a friend. Friendship is a simple ministry that makes a big difference!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for the friends in my life. Help me to be the kind of friend who makes known the glorious splendor of your kingdom. May I model true friendship for my children and encourage and support them in their friend relationships. In your precious name I pray, Amen. St. Luke, pray for me.