Even in our culture of death, many of us have "been hard at" evangelizing, serving, and working for the Lord. Some of us seemingly have "toiled in vain, and for nothing, uselessly, spent" our strength (Is 49:4). Although we are frustrated, recall the words of Pope St. John Paul II. He told us to "put out into deep water" (Lk 5:4).
At the same time, Satan is trying to rob us of the blessings of obedience to the Lord. He accuses us day and night (Rv 12:10). He encourages our cynicism and plays on our pessimism. He tells us to give up hope so that we will not have our hopes disappointed again. Satan tells us to be "realistic" — to walk by sight and not by faith (cf 2 Cor 5:7).
But Jesus continues to say: "Put out into deep water" (Lk 5:4). Will you have faith to try again, or will you remain crushed by frustration?
| PRAYER: | Father, none of Your promises are "too good to be true." I believe in You. |
| PROMISE: | "If any one of you thinks he is wise in a worldly way, he had better become a fool. In that way he will really be wise." –1 Cor 3:18 |
| PRAISE: | By continuing to go to Confession, Daniel has received the grace to overcome many faults and bad habits. |
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