Opening Prayer
Eternal God of all people, does it surprise you that Adam blames Eve for his disobedience? Why do men often blame and shame women and not see them as equal partners on this journey of life? And they both blame others for what they did! Why do we like to feel irresponsible and blame others? Does it disappoint You that we do not see ourselves to be partners with You in being responsible for others and creation, as You have empowered us? Inspirit us to trust that you are renewing and empowering us each day to create Your Kingdom by the way we live our lives. Open our eyes that we not see the demonic in people and events we don’t like, understand or feel threatened by. Count us among Your family, Your beloved sons and daughters, and brothers and sisters of Jesus who are cooperating with His Spirit in making this a better world where Your loving Presence and Good News is tangibly experienced by all people who share this planet with us. May Your indwelling Presence within us make us responsible disciples and messengers of Your love, justice, respect and peace.
Dear Therese of Lisieux, in 1895, as you were beginning the darkest time of the final surrender of your life and expectations to the Beloved Jesus, you made your Oblation to Merciful Love. You offered yourself totally to Love Who is God. Empower us to today with the same spirituality of self-sacrifice and generosity that moved you, Therese, so that we transcend our needs, hurts and hopes and return to God what is already His — our life! InSpirit us to understand the unconditional and all-powerful Mercy of God, especially when fear or insecurity invades our soul.
View Scripture on USCCB Website