Jesus experienced one fight after another with the religious leaders of His day. They fought about the proper observance of the sabbath (Mt 12:2) and whether healing was permitted on the sabbath (Mt 12:10ff). They accused Jesus of freeing and healing a blind and mute man by depending on the devil's help (Mt 12:22, 24). After Jesus performed signs, they even asked for other signs (Mt 12:38), which Jesus refused to provide on demand, for they were part of an evil and adulterous age (Mt 12:39). Jesus fought round after round with the religious leaders.
We all have people and situations in our lives which present one problem after another. What are we to do? We are simply to do the will of our heavenly Father (Mt 12:50). This may or may not solve our problems, but will certainly make us "brother and sister and mother" to Jesus in a special way (Mt 12:50). This intimate relationship with Jesus will transcend and dwarf our problems. Love will cover a multitude of sins (1 Pt 4:8). Rise above your problems by submitting your will to Jesus.
| PRAYER: | Father, may Your love take precedence over the problems in my life. |
| PROMISE: | "You will cast into the depths of the sea all our sins." –Mi 7:19 |
| PRAISE: | St. Bridget, a widowed mother of eight children, received profound revelations of the Passion of Jesus and spread devotion to the sufferings of Jesus. |
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