Wow, today’s gospel is a tough one. Jesus tells us to pray for our enemies. In society today it seems more and more challenging to know who is a friend and who an enemy…so many seem to be cancelling or flat out rejecting those who don’t believe the same as they do. On some level, it’s rare to find any human who doesn’t do that to some degree. There is plenty of evil all around, and we see it clearly in war, abuse, injustice, abortion, and persecution worldwide. Though we may not see individuals as enemies unless they directly affect our circle of life, their actions definitely affect society as a whole and that will trickle down to us. As part of society our responsibility in caring about what happens to others should not be taken lightly. None of us can change everything and make everything instantly hunky dorey, but even if we can’t physically or financially make a difference, our prayers can be a bridge to healing, more effectual than we are aware if we are diligent and persevere in those prayers. If we don’t do anything, nothing will improve. I have seen lives and situations changed drastically with prayer alone (though adding action is a plus).
Then there is the challenge of being introspective enough to see that, all too often, we are our own worst enemy. What then? Well, if we are following as Christ tells us, we pray for ourselves as we would any enemy and even *gasp* forgive ourselves and change!! YIKES! Sometimes I struggle with that …okay, often! Let’s face it, we don’t like to think we are bad, wrong, selfish, or disobedient to His will, but, speaking only for myself, those thoughts are repugnant when pointed towards myself… but, are they true? Unfortunately the answer is yes. Thankfully I am surrounded now, by family and friends who encourage and exemplify continued growth. Since surrounding myself with people like this I have been driven to do and be better. I find the most progress happens for me when I take or make the time to pray in true communication with Jesus every day. Sure, as a Catholic I pray many prayers including the Rosary, but it’s not like it was when I was younger…a boring chore. No, now, it is a deeply meditative and contemplative prayer that brings me alongside Jesus as I meditate on the stages of his life and his passion. Each mystery of the Rosary a different meditation, and each time, said with intentions for those I love, and for my enemies and the world at large, it takes on new meaning, allowing me to offer my challenges up with Christ as he willingly lives and dies and lives again for us!! That my friends brings me such peace and comfort. Once a frightened child, I am learning to trust in God’s providence and protection.
So, lets pray today… day three of the Novena to St Joseph, for all of the children who have been orphaned, and have been or are awaiting adoption. Lets pray for their birth parents and adoptive parents. It takes great courage to be either. We ask that St Joseph be with all of them and comfort, protect, and nurture them in the ways they most need. May God’s grace and mercy be an ever present stronghold for each of you. St Joseph, Pray for us!!
I’m praying for you, please pray for me. You are loved! ~ Mary
Created4Christ 