This devotional is uniquely Catholic in that the meditation is based on the daily readings for the Mass, called the Lectionary. But you don't have to be Catholic to find a home here! Click on 'Today's reading' for the lectionary link to read the bible readings, then click the back button and spend a few minutes with the meditation. Relax! This is your time, well deserved, much needed, and holy. Let all the things you "should be doing" melt away and bask in the presence of your God who loves you!

Before we begin, let us pray,

Father, you created me and put me on earth for a purpose. Jesus, you died for me and called me to complete your work. Holy Spirit, you help me to carry out the work for which I was created and called. In your presence and name - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - I begin my meditation.

Monday, October 18, 2010

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.

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