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Catholic Reflections Daily: Today’s Mass readings Acts 16:11-15; JOHN 15. 9-11. Gospel Theme of the day is Embracing God’s Mission: Unwavering Faith and Empowerment
Table of Contents
Catholic Daily Readings For Today
First Reading
Acts 16:11-15
11 We set sail from Troas, making a straight run for Samothrace, and on the next day to Neapolis, 12 and from there to Philippi, a leading city in that district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. We spent some time in that city. 13 On the sabbath we went outside the city gate along the river where we thought there would be a place of prayer. We sat and spoke with the women who had gathered there. 14 One of them, a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth, from the city of Thyatira, a worshiper of God, listened, and the Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what Paul was saying. 15 After she and her household had been baptized, she offered us an invitation, “If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my home,” and she prevailed on us.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 149:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6a and 9b
Response: The Lord takes delight in his people.
or: Alleluia.
Gospel
John 15:26—16:4a
26 “When the Advocate comes whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of truth that proceeds from the Father, he will testify to me. 27 And you also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning.
1 “I have told you this so that you may not fall away. 2 They will expel you from the synagogues; in fact, the hour is coming when everyone who kills you will think he is offering worship to God. 3 They will do this because they have not known either the Father or me. 4 I have told you this so that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you.
6 Powerful Catholic Reflections Daily
Embracing God’s Mission: Unwavering Faith and Empowerment
In times of adversity, we may find ourselves overwhelmed by the arduousness of our mission. However, it is crucial to remember that ultimately, it is the Lord who guides our path, and our role is simply to cooperate with His divine plan.
The Divine Continuum: God, in His infinite love, sent His only Son, Jesus, to be the Christ and the Savior of humanity. After fulfilling His earthly mission and returning to the Father, God bestowed upon us the Holy Spirit to carry forth the mission initiated by Christ.
The Testimony’s Calling: At the core of this mission lies the duty to testify. The Holy Spirit, whose primary purpose is to bear witness to the Son, entrusts this very mission to the disciples. Rest assured, this task will be accomplished.
Devotion and Prayerfulness: The story of Lydia in the first reading exemplifies the power of devotion and prayer. Through these practices, our hearts become receptive to God’s words and voice, thus opening the door to His divine influence.
Baptism: An Outward Expression of Faith: Baptism, an outward symbol of our faith in the Lord, fosters a spirit of hospitality and openness. Yet, it extends beyond mere accommodation—it is an attitude of receptivity and inclusiveness. It calls us to create space for others, to share our faith, and to grow together.
The Apostles’ Testimony: The apostles’ ability to bear witness stems from two essential factors. Firstly, they are accompanied and supported by the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, who empowers, enlightens, and emboldens them. Secondly, their intimate connection with the Lord from the very beginning reinforces their mission.
Challenges and Perseverance: Undoubtedly, this mission is riddled with challenges and even fear. Expulsion, persecution, and the threat of death loom over the apostles. Astonishingly, these acts are carried out under the guise of religious devotion and loyalty to God. In such a context, we are called upon not to falter.
Conclusion: Fearlessness through God’s Guidance When we walk alongside God, fear becomes obsolete. His unwavering presence directs and strengthens us at every step. Therefore, let us stand resolute in our faith and mission.
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