“Then Jesus said, ‘I came into this world for judgment, so that those who do not see might see, and those who do see might become blind.” (John 9:39)
My sweet Jesus, the judgment you wish to make over us is the judgment of love–the judgment that we, without deserving it, have won every bit of your merciful and forgiving love. You wish to make the judgment that we, all humility and child-like trust, seek your help. You judge us as thirsting for your salvation. You judge us as hungry for your love. May I place myself–my destiny, my identity, my hopes, my faith, and mostly my love–entirely at your disposal, waiting for the judgment you eagerly and gently offer me: “Since you cannot attain your eternal bliss without me or apart from me, I will enfold you in my love and bring you where I AM. I judge you to belong to me.” Amen
“In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean … in his name this man stands before you healed.” (Acts of the Apostles 4:10)
Lord Jesus Christ, by the power of your Holy Name, I stand before you and proclaim that I am healed by your grace. Beginning at Baptism, you have never ceased to pour your life into me. You make me whole, you make me holy. There is more to do, O Lord: I am so aware of that! But let me thank you today, right here and now, for the healings you have already brought me. I wait in faith for your continued grace–knowing that you are Master of all times and seasons. Amen
“You will see and your heart shall exult, and your bodies shall flourish like the grass.” (Isaiah 66:14)
Holy Spirit of God, You are the love shared by the Father and the Son, You are Lord and Giver of Life. Help me to see the glory and beauty, the goodness and truth of God today, so that my heart exults and my life flourishes–and may that flourishing glorify You and serve my brothers and sisters. Amen.
“Do not be afraid of holiness–it will take away none of your energy, vitality or joy. On the contrary, you will become what the Father had in mind when He created you, and you will be faithful to your deepest self.”
(Pope Francis, Gaudete et Exsultate, 32)
“Make me know your ways O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation.” (Psalm 25:4-5)
Father God, you have set before me this day many chances to know you better, to love you, to serve you. Help me be aware of you! Help me not be distracted with the things of this world, with my own weaknesses and selfish agenda. You are the source of truth, of love, of life. You are my Lord. Amen
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is in the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when the heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.” (Jeremiah 17:7-8)
Loving Father God, you have provided all that we need to flourish in this life so that we can become saints in heaven when you call us home. Help me to trust in your goodness and in the permanence of your goodness–you will not allow your beloved to wither and die. Even in times of struggle, suffering and dryness, we can bear fruit for your kingdom, fruit to glorify your holy name. Thank you, Father in heaven, for being the source of graces that will never run dry. Amen.
“The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your desire with good things, and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.” (Isaiah 58:11)
Thank you, Father God, for supplying me with everything I need to accomplish your will. I can call upon you for guidance and to satisfy my desire to be loved. You are so eager to place within me a spring of grace that will not fail. I praise you and thank you this day. Amen.
Flourish Catholic 