In many countries throughout the world, today is a holy day. This means that today is very special, and God wants to do something very special in our lives. In today's first Scripture reading, Peter is miraculously freed from jail (Acts 12:7ff). Today can be our day of liberation from our prisons of sin, fear, compulsive behavior, and self-hatred. Even if we have been in these prisons for most of our lives, Jesus can set us free today. In today's Gospel reading, Jesus asks the question: "Who do you say that I am?" (Mt 16:15) If by faith we acknowledge Jesus as Messiah, Son of God, Lord, and Savior, today will be not only the day of liberation, but also "the day of salvation" (2 Cor 6:2).
Paul said: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on a merited crown awaits me" (2 Tm 4:7-8). Like Paul, a few readers of this book are on the threshold of dying, going to heaven, and seeing Jesus face to face. Today could be their "Day of the Lord," the last on earth, the first in heaven. Today is a holy day, an unforgettable day, a day of liberation, salvation, death, and life. "This is the day the Lord has made" (Ps 118:24).
| PRAYER: | Father, today I allow You to love me with no reservations. |
| PROMISE: | "The Lord will continue to rescue me from all attempts to do me harm and will bring me safe to His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen." –2 Tm 4:18 |
| PRAISE: | "Who can free me from this body under the power of death? All praise to God, through Jesus Christ our Lord!" (Rm 7:24-25) |
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