Jesus is having a rough day. The Pharisees and Herodians are plotting to destroy Him (Mk 3:6). Jesus' relatives are trying to probate Him by charging: "He is out of His mind" (Mk 3:21). The scribes are asserting that Jesus is possessed by the devil (Mk 3:22). The apostles whom Jesus just chose are not mentioned. The next time we hear of them, they're terrified by a storm, and lacking in faith (Mk 4:40). Jesus is being attacked from all sides – relatives, the government, the religious establishment. He faces a barrage of enemies, all by Himself.
Does this sound familiar? Maybe you have many rough days. Do you often find yourself bombarded from all sides and yet also find yourself all alone? Jesus had the twelve apostles, but they weren't much help. You may have a spouse, children, family, and friends, but where are they when you need them? No matter what, Jesus will always be there for you (Mt 28:20). Even if your mother forsakes you, He will never leave you (Is 49:15). Jesus explicitly asserts: "No one who comes will I ever reject" (Jn 6:37).
| PRAYER: | Jesus, because of Your love I can never be alone (Jn 16:32). Thank You. |
| PROMISE: | "...Saul and Jonathan, beloved and cherished, separated neither in life nor in death, swifter than eagles, stronger than lions!" –2 Sm 1:23 |
| PRAISE: | St. Agnes, whose name means "lamb," chose a martyr's death over any violation of her vow of virginity. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College